Tethered Drone Technology a Specific Target Development Area
Integration and ISR specialist AEC Skyline in the Netherlands and leading unmanned systems developer Milrem Robotics in Estonia have signed an MoU paving the way for joint development, testing and validation of products and software pertinent to both companies’ market sectors.
AEC will act as an integration partner to Milrem, covering products including the THeMIS and Multiscope UGVs, as well as the Type-X Robotic Combat Vehicle. AEC will also engage with the Dutch MoD and with potential civilian customers, primarily in the Netherlands. With six THeMIS UGVs already being operated by the Royal Netherlands Army’s Robotics & Autonomous Systems unit under a concept development & experimentation (CD&E) scheme, both parties now aim to position Milrem solutions for future MoD requirements, including the use of manned-unmanned teaming.
The companies are looking into requirements that might lead to the integration of new technologies and payloads including (tethered) UAS, sensors and armaments into UGVs, and are also analysing how UAS data can enhance AI and autonomous navigation solutions developed by Milrem Robotics, as well as enhancing their intelligent functions.
“AEC’s tethered drone technology is a welcome addition to the list of capabilities required in the development of the European Unmanned Ground System during the iMUGS project, which is why Milrem has invited AEC to contribute with their technology,” explained Kuldar Väärsi, CEO of Milrem Robotics. The companies have already identified counter-UAS technology and the development of a new integrated user interface as specific areas of cooperation.