HDT Global’s Hunter WOLF Selected by US Army to Boost Robotic Tactical Mobility and Logistical Support.

On October 28, 2024, HDT Global announced that the U.S. Army has selected its Hunter WOLF™ (Wheeled Offload Logistics Follower) for the Small Multipurpose Equipment Transport (S-MET) Increment II program. This selection, part of an $11.55 million contract, will see the Hunter WOLF undergoing government testing and evaluation as a promising solution to enhance logistical support and tactical mobility for Army units in some of the most challenging operational environments.
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The HDT Hunter WOLF UGV Unmanned Ground Vehicle showcased at the AUSA 2024 defense exhibition in Washington, D.C., is specially designed to be used for tactical mobility and logistical support missions. (Picture source: Army Recognition Group)

The U.S. Army awarded HDT Global this contract through the National Advanced Mobility Consortium’s (NAMC) Other Transaction Agreement (OTA), a competitive process designed to drive forward technological advancement in military systems. HDT Global is one of two companies chosen to provide potential solutions under the S-MET program, a critical step in the Army’s objective to deploy robotic systems that alleviate soldiers' physical burdens while enhancing operational flexibility on the battlefield.

Kevin McSweeney, HDT Global's President and CEO, expressed pride in this achievement, noting, "We are thrilled our Hunter WOLF was selected for the S-MET Increment II award. HDT’s industry leadership in developing innovative robotic solutions is more than 12 years in the making, and the Hunter WOLF proves our commitment to solving complex challenges U.S. soldiers face on the modern battlefield." He highlighted that the Hunter WOLF is a mature, Technology Readiness Level (TRL)-9 solution that reduces soldiers' load and provides commanders with versatile, multi-mission capability.

The HDT Hunter WOLF (Wheeled Offload Logistics Follower) is a multi-mission 6x6 unmanned ground vehicle (UGV) engineered for military support, transporting gear, conducting reconnaissance, and enhancing battlefield logistics. Powered by a hybrid-electric drive, it combines a robust diesel engine with electric motors, allowing efficient power distribution, a low acoustic signature for stealth, and extended operational capabilities. This setup delivers an impressive range of up to 160 kilometers on a single fuel load, making it effective for extended missions in remote or challenging areas. The Hunter WOLF boasts a payload capacity of up to 450 kilograms, enabling it to carry mission-critical supplies, ammunition, and medical gear, significantly lightening soldiers’ physical burden.

One of its standout features is its modularity, with a design that accommodates a variety of mission-specific packages, such as casualty evacuation, supply transport, and electronic reconnaissance. Additionally, it offers limited offensive capabilities, as it can be fitted with remote weapon stations (RWS) capable of handling machine guns or grenade launchers to provide cover fire or suppressive support. Built on a rugged steel frame, the UGV has advanced suspension and durable tires to navigate challenging terrains, while its dependable, low-maintenance construction ensures performance in extreme weather and climates. This adaptable platform provides reliable, autonomous support to increase soldiers’ mobility, safety, and overall effectiveness on the battlefield.

One of the Hunter WOLF’s standout features is its modular design, which allows it to accommodate a variety of mission packages, from transporting supplies and conducting reconnaissance to casualty evacuation and power export. This adaptability positions it as a versatile support vehicle capable of quickly adjusting to a range of mission requirements, supporting the U.S. Army's need for operational resilience and flexibility in the field. According to Tom Van Doren, Chief Technology Officer of HDT Global, “The HDT Hunter WOLF surpasses all S-MET requirements with an advanced design tailored for future growth. Utilizing our robotic vehicle design and manufacturing expertise, we’ve presented the optimal material solution to execute crucial missions on today’s complex and modern battlefield, ensuring our warfighters have the reliable support required for mission success.”

The S-MET Increment II program is part of the U.S. Army’s broader modernization strategy, emphasizing integrating autonomous and robotic technologies to streamline logistics and support. By reducing the physical burdens on soldiers, systems like the Hunter WOLF allow soldiers to focus on primary mission objectives, particularly in high-stress, combat-intense scenarios. This stage of the S-MET program will determine how effectively these unmanned vehicles can serve as “robotic teammates,” lightening soldiers’ loads while providing mission-critical support. HDT Global’s Hunter WOLF, with its adaptable, mission-ready design and reliable performance, is poised to significantly impact the Army’s operational capabilities, helping to address the evolving challenges of the modern battlefield.