US Army Selects Rheinmetall for Small Multipurpose Equipment Transport Program to Enhance Soldier Support.

On September 24, 2024, the U.S. Army announced its decision to award American Rheinmetall Vehicles and HDT Expeditionary Systems the contract to build prototypes of equipment-carrying robots as part of the second phase of the Small Multipurpose Equipment Transport (S-MET) program. This announcement highlighted the growing importance of robotic technologies in military operations.

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US Army Small Multipurpose Equipment Transport (S-MET) Program (Picture source: US MoD)

Several companies, including General Dynamics Land Systems, a team formed by Anduril and Hanwha, and Teledyne FLIR, competed for this contract. GDLS had previously been awarded the initial contracts in 2019 and 2020 related to the first increment of the S-MET.

For this new phase, American Rheinmetall and HDT will each build eight prototypes at a total cost of $22 million. According to Kyle Bruner, project manager for force projection within the Army, S-MET Increment II aims to address critical gaps related to the excessive physical burdens faced by soldiers while enhancing operational autonomy through improved recharging capabilities.

The use of these robots will help reduce the load on soldiers, thereby increasing the effectiveness of small units by limiting fatigue and injuries associated with heavy loads. The first increment of the S-MET, already in service, is a radio-controlled, eight-wheeled platform capable of carrying various payloads and providing power for electronic systems. Currently, this model can transport up to 1,000 pounds, but the goal for the second increment is to double that capacity.

Moreover, S-MET Increment II will be designed to provide higher exportable power, essential for operating unmanned aircraft systems, while also being quieter. The integration of a wireless mesh communication network for soldiers is also among the new features expected.

The system will be constructed using a modular and open architecture, facilitating cost-effective future upgrades. The Army plans to award a production contract for S-MET Increment II following the prototyping phase and developmental testing, with a procurement goal of up to 2,195 systems by the end of 2027.

Meanwhile, the Army is also working on a different type of robotic combat vehicle for heavy maneuver forces. However, the S-MET is expected to become the preferred robot for lighter formations, according to Maj. Gen. Glenn Dean, head of Ground Combat Systems. He stated that the S-MET "is a very capable platform, offering significant value through ongoing experimentation."

This initiative illustrates the U.S. Army's commitment to integrating advanced technologies into its operations while addressing contemporary challenges on the battlefield.