BAE Systems successfully tests Manned-Unmanned Teaming Concept with ACV C4UAS and Rex MK I.

On June 28, 2023, BAE Systems announced the successful testing of the manned-unmanned teaming (MUM-T) concept, utilizing the 8x8 Amphibious Combat armored Vehicle (ACV) C4UAS linked to the Israeli IAI/ELTA Systems Ltd’s Rex MK II Unmanned Infantry Combat Support System. This teaming technology boosts mission effectiveness by enhancing situational awareness and decision-making capabilities
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BAE Systems and support  successfully demonstrates manned-unmanned teaming (MUM-T) on the Amphibious Combat Vehicle C4UAS upgraded with Rex MKII (Picture source BAE Systems )

The successful demonstration of the Manned-Unmanned Teaming (MUM-T) technology was carried out by BAE Systems and Iveco Defense Vehicles. The key players in this demonstration included the autonomous system Rex MK II and the ACV C4UAS. The objective of this demonstration was to showcase the collaboration and coordination capabilities between manned and unmanned vehicles, aiming to enhance operational efficiency and reduce risks. Through the integration of MUM-T technology, this demonstration successfully proved that the collaboration between manned vehicles and autonomous drones can provide better situational awareness, improved decision-making, and more effective mission execution.

The MUM-T is an advanced technology, that promotes collaboration between manned and unmanned vehicles, offering significant advantages in mission coordination, decision-making, and risk reduction for troops. By integrating MUM-T into mission planning, operational parameters can be expanded, providing better situational awareness and increased capability to address uncertain and hostile environments.

At the heart of this revolutionary development lies the autonomous system Rex MK II, which provides direct support to maneuvering infantry units. Equipped with versatile capabilities, this unmanned autonomous vehicle can fulfill a variety of essential tasks. It handles tactical logistics support, tactical intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR), while also capable of target acquisition and casualty evacuation.

The Rex MK II features a "follow-me" driving mode tailored to infantry forces and can carry payloads of up to 1.25 tons. With its hybrid electric system, it offers a range of 300 kilometers (approximately 70 kilometers in stealth electric mode). The Rex MK II can also be teleoperated beyond the line of sight and fully automated. Moreover, it can be easily transported by an MV-22 or CH-47F. Its high maneuverability and air and helicopter transport capability represent a major advancement in the field of military autonomous vehicles.

The ACV C4UAS is an amphibious 8x8 armored vehicle with robust protection, mobility, and integrated systems that make it a valuable asset for military operations, offering enhanced survivability, versatility, and mission success on both land and water terrains. The ACV C4UAS is an adaptable amphibious platform developed in partnership with Iveco Defense Vehicles, combines command, control, communication, and computing (C4) capabilities with unmanned aircraft systems (UAS). This integration allows for close collaboration between manned vehicles and autonomous drones, facilitating the implementation of the MUM-T concept.

The successful demonstration of MUM-T capabilities attests to the versatility and integrated growth capability of the ACV C4UAS. With this cutting-edge technology, military missions benefit from improved situational awareness, enhanced decision-making, and reduced risks to human and technological resources. Garrett Lacaillade, Vice President of Amphibious Vehicle Product Line at BAE Systems, emphasized the importance of this breakthrough, stating, "Associating an unmanned system like Rex enhances situational awareness, supports mission success, and reduces risks for our Marines."

The collaboration between BAE Systems and Iveco Defense Vehicles in developing the Rex MK II, ACV C4UAS, and integrating MUM-T technology represents a significant leap forward in military operations. These innovations enhance mission coordination, decision-making, and risk reduction, setting the stage for a more effective and versatile future in warfare.