Partner 2023: Collaborative effort lead to Universal Autonomous Robotic Platform.

In an era when many nations are actively exploring the integration of unmanned systems into their armed forces, the Serbian teams from the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering Niš and Coming Computer Engineering Belgrade jointly introduced the Universal Autonomous Robotic Platform (UARP) at the Partner 2023 exhibition. Countries are prompted not only to experiment with new drones but also to develop novel tactics and strategies to incorporate UGVs, drones, and UAVs alongside traditional troops and manned systems, as the nature of warfare itself is evolving, with drones emerging as central components of military strategies.
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The Faculty of Mechanical Engineering Niš and Coming Computer Engineering Belgrade introduced the Universal Autonomous Robotic Platform (UARP) at the Partner 2023 exhibition (Picture source: Army Recognition)

The UARP itself weighs 350 kg and boasts dimensions that span from 1400 to 1900 mm in length, 1200 mm in width, and 620 to 1160 mm in height, rendering it a versatile presence. Its capabilities encompass a maximum speed of 6.5 km/h, a payload capacity of up to 600 kg, and the ability to operate continuously for 10 hours. Additionally, it can adeptly surmount obstacles with ground clearance ranging from 200 to 800 mm. The platform's noteworthy climbing capabilities of up to 40° and the capacity to change slopes in both the longitudinal and lateral directions by 30° make it adaptable and robust.

The adaptability of drones emerges as a significant driving force behind their increased utilization in various military operations, encompassing Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR), target acquisition, and direct combat roles. In recent conflicts like the Russia-Ukraine situation, drones have exhibited their versatility by participating in surveillance, target identification, and executing direct actions.

Another pivotal factor contributing to the growing interest in unmanned military technology is the cost-effectiveness of drones and UAVs compared to traditional manned counterparts. Their operational costs are notably lower, enabling nations to deploy multiple unmanned systems for the same cost as a single manned aircraft, armored vehicle, or naval vessel. This cost advantage enhances their operational capabilities without straining defense budgets.

Simultaneously, the rapid advancement of technology, with Artificial Intelligence (AI) playing a prominent role, further fuels the interest in unmanned systems. AI empowers these systems to autonomously identify and engage targets with precision, significantly impacting their effectiveness in combat scenarios. AI's reach extends beyond target acquisition, affecting navigation, data collection, and decision-making processes. This integration of AI enhances the capability and relevance of military drones and UGVs in modern warfare.

The nature of warfare itself is undergoing a transformation, with drones emerging as central components of military strategies. Their initial use in counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency operations has expanded into full-scale conventional combat, involving multiple stakeholders. Drones have shifted from being specialized tools to integral components of military strategies, fundamentally reshaping the dynamics of modern warfare.

In addition to these factors, the escalation of cross-border conflicts and territorial disputes among nations is expected to drive further demand for drones and UAVs. These unmanned systems offer a strategic advantage in monitoring and securing borders without exposing human lives to risk, proving valuable in regions marked by territorial disputes and escalating geopolitical tensions.

In response to these dynamics, countries worldwide are reinforcing their defense budgets to enhance their military capabilities. According to an analysis by Fortune Business Insights, the global military drone market is projected to experience substantial growth, potentially reaching $35.60 billion by 2030, up from $14.14 billion in 2023. This growth primarily stems from increased defense expenditure aimed at acquiring advanced military drones to bolster combat capabilities.