The Tesla of AI robot tanks (science news).
The Type-X Robotic Combat Vehicle (TX-RCV) has landed, and it’s the 12-ton Tesla of AI tanks.
Built as a joint venture by Milrem Robotics and John Cockerill Defense, it is dropped into battle by parachute or heavy lift helicopter, then the AI fighting vehicle can back up infantry formations or operate independently, in unmanned formations.
The tank has a low profile, light-weight turret, which can mount the M242 25mm X 137mm Bushmaster cannon or the 230LF, 30mm X 113mm cannon. Its turret’s novel opening roof capability allows reloading of the unmanned vehicle from the outside. Equipped with a 360-degree panoramic sight, with CCD, thermal and fused imaging, the turret can be fitted with Anti-Tank Missiles such as Alcotan, MMP, Javelin or SPIKE.
Simon Haye at John Cockerill Defense told SFcrowsnest, “One of the first realistic roles for unmanned fighting vehicles will be convoy defense and perimeter or base defense. The Type-X with the CPWS (turret) can be placed in the front and rear of a convoy to provide additional eyes and firepower for the convoy. Rarely does a convoy have available 25mm firepower and given the system is unmanned, tactics like rushing an ambush site, or maneuvering on the enemy’s position are now legitimate options for a convoy under fire. The lead / follow functions of unmanned vehicles is well developed technology and spreading some operator stations through the convoy can provide redundancy and quick response. Further FOB security can now be in the form of a mobile unmanned fighting vehicle. Instead of putting soldiers at risk on the wire, these Guardian Systems can provide relentless observation and the capability to maneuver and disperse an attack instead of just absorbing it.”
