Video: US Army Unveils Autonomous Unmanned Rocket Launcher

The United States Army, in collaboration with the Combat Capabilities Development Command Aviation & Missile Center (DEVCOM), recently revealed a significant advancement in military technology with the successful demonstration of the Autonomous Multi-Domain Launcher (AML).

+ Click here to watch the AML presentation video

This event, held approximately a month ago, also featured participation from DEVCOM’s Ground Vehicle Systems Center and the Tennessee National Guard’s 1st Battalion, 181st Field Artillery Regiment, during a live-fire exercise at the Yuma Proving Ground.

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Capability Demonstration

During the event, three Reduced Range Practice Rockets (RRPR) were launched in a cascading fire mission, demonstrating the AML’s capability to conduct autonomous operations. In the weeks leading up to the demonstration, the team fired a total of six RRPRs. Additionally, the AML prototype’s mobility modes were showcased, including teleoperation, waypoint navigation, and convoy operations.

Advanced Technologies

The exercise demonstrated the AML’s ability to autonomously move from a concealed position to a firing point, adjust its direction as instructed, and receive fire control commands from a remote operator. This advancement represents a significant step in integrating autonomous and remote technologies to deliver long-range precision strikes without putting soldiers at risk.

Future of Military Modernization

The event at Yuma Proving Ground validated the integration of autonomous technology into a modified High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) launcher. This milestone sets the stage for AML’s participation in Valiant Shield ’24 and aligns with the Army Modernization Strategy, which emphasizes integrating robotics and autonomy to enhance lethality.

Next Steps

With the AML program set to transition to LRPF CFT and its ASA (ALT) partners starting in Fiscal Year 2025, the successful live-fire demonstration highlights the Army’s commitment to advancing combat capabilities through innovative technologies and collaborative partnerships.

“Skillful integration of humans and machines in formations that optimize the natural advantages of both is crucial to our efforts,” said Brigadier General Rory Crooks, director of the Long Range Precision Fires Cross-Functional Team. “These advancements allow humans to better utilize the terrain to accomplish the mission while delegating the loads and risks to machines.”

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Source: army.mil

Photo and video: Telegram / ssternenko. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.