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Rheinmetall Wins Major Contract for US Army's S-MET Inc II Program.
American Rheinmetall Vehicles, based in Sterling Heights, Michigan, has secured a key contract under the US Army’s Small Multi-Purpose Equipment Transport (S-MET) program. This announcement was made by the German company on October 7, 2024.
Rheinmetall to provide the US Army with autonomous ground vehicles. (Picture source: Rheinmetall)
This victory positions Rheinmetall, alongside Textron Systems, among the two suppliers selected to provide the US Army with autonomous ground vehicles (UGVs) that enhance tactical support capabilities. American Rheinmetall Vehicles' S-MET solution is designed to operate autonomously over difficult terrains, ensuring efficient transport of equipment and supplies during combat operations.
As part of this contract, American Rheinmetall Vehicles will deliver eight prototypes to the Army by 2025 for extensive testing and evaluation. This testing phase will allow the Army to compare this platform with an alternative solution, with the objective of selecting a single model for large-scale production.
Drawing on its experience in autonomous ground vehicles, American Rheinmetall Vehicles has integrated major technological innovations from its Mission Master range into the S-MET platform. The Mission Master family, known for its modular and versatile design, supports various mission types, such as reconnaissance, surveillance, counter-unmanned aerial systems (cUAS), and logistical support. Through these advancements, the S-MET vehicle utilizes components already in the Army’s inventory and commercially mature all-terrain vehicle technologies, ensuring the platform's accessibility, reliability, and electromagnetic compatibility with advanced composite materials and unique structural features.
Jim Schirmer, Senior Vice President and Deputy General Manager of American Rheinmetall Vehicles, emphasized the platform’s value: “American Rheinmetall Vehicles is honored by the Army's selection and excited to deliver our S-MET platform, particularly appealing for its technological excellence, accessibility, and reliability.”
Textron Systems, a key partner in this project, brings decades of experience in autonomous platforms across air, ground, and maritime domains. Known for its RIPSAW® M5 and M3 robotic platforms developed under the Army’s robotic combat vehicle (RCV) programs, Textron Systems is applying advanced control architecture to the S-MET program. This common interface between the RCV and S-MET platforms optimizes operator training, facilitating integration and streamlining autonomous vehicle operations for the Army.
American Rheinmetall Vehicles, part of the broader American Rheinmetall Defense group, is committed to advancing tactical vehicle modernization in the United States. With affiliated divisions such as American Rheinmetall Munitions, American Rheinmetall Systems, and American Rheinmetall Defense, the company aims to strengthen the American industrial base through a networked and multifunctional approach.