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[br][br]Milrem Robotics and ST engineering demonstrated the ability of the THeMIS armed combat unmanned ground vehicle (UGV) to operate under beyond-visual-line-of-sight (BVLOS) conditions. The new robotic tank could bring the remote-control capabilities of aerial drone warfare down to ground combat.[br][br]The demonstration was performed in April during a live-fire exercise held in Tapa, Estonia in co-operation with the Estonian Defence Forces. The UGV is equipped with a 40mm Automatic Grenade Launcher (AGL) and a 12.7mm Heavy Machine Gun (HMG).[br][br]The joint warfare system brings together the THeMIS unmanned ground vehicle and the ADDER DM medium-calibre remote weapon station. It is intended as a force multiplier for dismounted troops that can be utilized in both urban and rural areas.[br][br][br]
[br][br]The Tracked Hybrid Modular Infantry System, or THeMIS for short, is the first ground-based combat robot that can be controlled from farther away than a direct line of sight. This latest version features a wireless BLVOS control system that allows an operator equipped with a tablet-like, ergonomically-designed mobile or stationary control unit to both steer and fire it at ranges of up to 1,000 m (3,300 ft) in built-up areas and 2,500 m (8,200 ft) in open ground.[br][br]Its intuitive graphical user interface makes it easier to operate with less user fatigue and better combat performance, as per the makers. Safe and secure firing control is provided by a dedicated Fire Control UHF-Band data-link embedded Fire Control System.[br][br]The UGV is a tracked all-terrain system capable of negotiating 60% slopes and dealing with 61cm deep water obstacles. It can reach the top speed of 20km/h and is powered by a diesel-electric drive that can ensure uninterrupted operation for 15 hours. Additionally, the THeMIS is armored to NATO STANAG (STANdardization AGreement) 4569 level 3, which means that it can withstand 7.62×51mm armor-piercing rounds, anti-tank mines, and the detonation of a 155mm High Explosive round at a distance of 60 m (200 ft).[br][br]“Our joint combat UGV is one of the first armored UGVs in the world that’s especially well-suited for urban conflict areas,” stated Jüri Pajuste, Director of the Defence Programs Department in Milrem Robotics in a press release.[br][br]The vehicles will be used for a concept development and experimentation project that seeks to tap the potential of new unmanned platforms to increase combat power and reduce risk to soldiers. |
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