GDLS confirms that autonomous vehicles and AI have become essential in modern warfare at WDS 2024.

At the World Defense Show 2024, Jeff Massimilla, Vice President of Global Engineering, Design, and Technology at General Dynamics Land Systems, addressed the growing importance of robotics and autonomous systems in the defense industry, outlining the key challenges and opportunities associated with their integration. He delivered his presentation to an audience composed of dignitaries and defense industry experts during the Future Defense Forum.
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The AbramsX, developed by General Dynamics Land Systems, incorporates artificial intelligence-driven targeting systems and autonomous functionalities, reflecting the increasing global reliance on intelligent systems. (Picture source: General Dynamics)

Advancements in robotics and the integration of autonomous unmanned systems are currently reshaping the defense industry. These technologies are transitioning from theoretical concepts to operational assets capable of impacting military strategies, skill requirements, and the structure of cooperation within the sector. During the Future Defense Forum at the World Defense Show 2024, Jeff Massimilla provided an overview of this trend, presenting both the technical possibilities and the operational challenges that arise. Massimilla drew a parallel between the changes occurring in the defense industry and his own career path, explaining, “My career move from the automotive industry to defense is in a way similar to what's happening with robotics and autonomous systems moving from the commercial world into the defense industry. And it's happening at breakneck speed.”

General Dynamics Land Systems (GDLS) has already demonstrated its expertise in the field, developing a wide range of autonomous and robotic vehicles to enhance military capabilities. For instance, the Small Multipurpose Equipment Transport (S-MET), based on the Multi-Utility Tactical Transport (MUTT) platform, is a semi-autonomous vehicle designed to assist infantry units by carrying loads between 1,000 and 2,500 pounds over a 60-mile range, thereby reducing the physical burden on soldiers. The Tracked Robot 10-ton (TRX) is a hybrid-electric robotic combat vehicle with a 1:1 payload-to-chassis ratio, designed for modular mission payloads and capable of operating alongside manned formations. GDLS's Advanced Reconnaissance Vehicle (ARV) is intended to serve as a central command platform on the battlefield, integrating onboard and off-board sensors, unmanned aerial systems, and future robotic systems, with a modular open architecture for technology integration. Additionally, GDLS also unveiled the AbramsX, StrykerX, and StrykerQB technology demonstrators, which incorporate hybrid-electric propulsion and advanced systems to explore future combat vehicle concepts. Through its subsidiary Bluefin Robotics, GDLS also offers the Bluefin-21 autonomous underwater vehicle and the Knifefish mine-hunting UUV, both designed for extended underwater operations and mine detection.

The increasing adoption of autonomous systems marks a structural change in military operations. Driven by developments in artificial intelligence (AI), sensor capabilities, and widespread connectivity, these systems can now perform a broader range of functions, including reconnaissance, surveillance, logistics support, and other tasks with minimal human input. According to Massimilla, "Thanks to the advancement of AI and the shifting geopolitical landscape, the capabilities we are talking about today have gone from being nice to have to being need to have. As members of the defense industry, we have a responsibility, even an obligation, to provide our customers with technologically advanced, highly integrated capabilities." This transformation is supported by core technological attributes: connectivity allows real-time data exchange and operational coordination; autonomy enables machines to conduct missions independently; adaptability ensures responsiveness to evolving operational environments; and supportability ensures that these systems can be maintained, updated, and kept operational over extended periods.

Massimilla stated that "One of the inherent challenges in the integration and adoption of robotic and intelligent systems is the trust that humans have in machines. A lack of confidence can result in the under-utilization of these technologies." (Picture source: WDS)

Global military forces are increasingly integrating autonomous and robotic vehicles into their operations, focusing on enhancing capabilities in logistics, reconnaissance, combat support, and casualty evacuation. In the United States, the Department of Defense's 'Replicator' initiative aims to deploy thousands of AI-enabled autonomous vehicles by 2026, emphasizing small, smart, and inexpensive platforms to maintain strategic advantages. The U.S. Army is also exploring the use of autonomous vehicles for logistics and sustainment operations, such as micro convoys transporting large parts and fuel, and autonomous mules carrying supplies over challenging terrains. Ukraine has institutionalized drone warfare through its 'Army of Drones' initiative, expanding domestic drone production for attack, surveillance, and supply missions, and deploying unmanned ground vehicles like the NRK Lyut for frontline support.

The United Kingdom is considering the deployment of autonomous drones capable of executing lethal strikes without human intervention, reflecting a shift in defense policy and acknowledging the transformative impact of drones in modern warfare. Germany has recognized the technological feasibility of fully autonomous strike drones, with start-ups like Stark developing drones capable of real-time decision-making and target engagement. China is advancing AI integration into weapons design, including the development of autonomous submarines and electromagnetic weapons, and has showcased robotic systems like the Q-UGV Wolf for reconnaissance and logistics support. Estonia's Milrem Robotics has developed the THeMIS unmanned ground vehicle, utilized by various NATO members for logistics, combat support, and reconnaissance missions. South Korea is upgrading its K9 Thunder self-propelled howitzers to the K9A3 variant, incorporating autonomous features and remote operation capabilities.

Massimilla also discussed the main challenges involved in integrating robotics and autonomous systems into defense forces. Interoperability was identified as a primary requirement, with an emphasis on the ability of autonomous systems to operate alongside existing platforms and allied systems. Massimilla stated, "Militaries around the world are developing systems that often do not work well with the systems used by their allies. Think of the benefits that could be realized if there were greater synchronization of efforts." The issue of cost-effectiveness was also highlighted. Achieving affordability without compromising performance, through modularity, the use of commercial off-the-shelf components, and careful resource management, was presented as essential for broader adoption. Another challenge is building trust in autonomous systems.

The Tracked Robot 10-ton (TRX) is a hybrid-electric robotic combat vehicle with a 1:1 payload-to-chassis ratio, designed for modular mission payloads and capable of operating alongside manned formations. (Picture source: GDLS)

Massimilla underlined the importance of extensive testing and human oversight, stating, "One of the inherent challenges in the integration and adoption of robotic and intelligent systems is the trust that humans have in machines. A lack of confidence can result in the under-utilization of these technologies." Ensuring safety and cyber protection for autonomous systems was another focus area, with Massimilla suggesting that the defense industry can apply lessons from the commercial sector. Measures such as robust cybersecurity frameworks, redundancy systems, and strict safety protocols were presented as necessary to secure operations and mitigate risks.

Massimilla also stressed that the realization of autonomous systems' full potential depends on cooperation among industry, government, and academic entities. Open exchanges of information and collaborative approaches were described as essential to speeding up technological development and addressing integration challenges. Massimilla described General Dynamics Land Systems' approach: “We work to collaborate with our customers, industry, and academia to stay at the leading edge of technology. We also ensure that the safety and security of our customers remain a top priority. And finally, we determine how to integrate breakthrough technologies into our innovative platforms." According to Massimilla, achieving meaningful advancements will require persistent joint efforts. He added, "Robotics have the potential to completely transform the defense industry. We are up for that challenge. Let's work together to share new ideas and perspectives about the value and use of our autonomous systems." The presentation concluded that a responsible and systematic approach, emphasizing collaboration and careful integration, will be critical to effectively deploying robotics and autonomous systems in defense applications.

The discussions at the World Defense Show 2024 underlined the importance of maintaining dialogue and coordination as the defense industry experiences rapid technological evolution. Organizers announced that the World Defense Show 2026 will further develop this focus through the introduction of a new Unmanned Systems Zone, designed specifically to highlight the most recent advancements in autonomous and robotic technologies. The event will also feature the Future Defense Lab, a dedicated program of high-level presentations led by experts in AI-enabled and autonomous systems. Held under the theme The Future of Defense Integration, the World Defense Show 2026 is planned as a platform to exhibit cutting-edge autonomous technologies and discuss the technical and operational approaches necessary for their effective integration into wider defense frameworks.