On September 24, 2024, the US Army declared that it had chosen American Rheinmetall Vehicles LLC (ARV) and HDT Expeditionary Systems Inc. to supply unmanned ground vehicle (UGV) prototypes for additional assessment in order to meet its needs for the Small Multipurpose Equipment Transporter Increment II (S-MET II).
The S-MET is intended to provide the small unit with a means to carry a variety of different loads to enhance its sustainability and capability for more autonomous operations. An earlier S-MET I from General Dynamics Land Systems has been in field service with Army light infantry units. Army program officials have stated that S-MET II’s requirements reflect lessons learned from use of this earlier UGV.
S-MET II’s primary users will be Infantry Brigade Combat Teams, Explosive Ordnance Disposal, and Security Force Assistance Brigades. The S-MET is essentially a self-powered platform that can be controlled remotely by a single soldier and accompany the unit across various terrain in all weather conditions.
S-MET II will double the earlier model’s the payload carried to 2000 lbs (910 kg), offer increased exportable power, have a lower noise signature, increased reliability, to include wireless mesh communications, and worldwide grid charging. Equipping the platform to enable modern mission payloads like Unmanned Air Systems and communications equipment are key additional capabilities.
S-MET II is also to be a modular system with an open architecture that will allow for easier and cost-effective upgrading.
Each company has received a US$22 million contract to provide eight S-MET II prototypes for development testing.
- ARV has proposed a variation of its Mission Master SP (Silent Partner). It uses a low-signature electric motor for stealth and agility and is designed for forward resupply or as a sensor or weapon carrier. The Mission Master is being supplied to the Japanese Seld Defence Forces and was recently demonstrated to the US Marines.
- HDT has offered its WOLF with a 2200 lb capacity in a rugger 6 X 6 vehicle. It has a range of 200 miles with self-charging hybrid-electric drivetrain.
Following testing the Army will place a production contract which is scheduled for the end of late Fiscal Year 2027 (between July and September 2024). The announced Army Acquisition Objective is for up to 2,195 systems.
by Stephen W. Miller
