Small Ground Robot's Effectiveness and Acquisition Strategy

Abstract

Abstract : Small Ground Robots Effectiveness and Acquisition Strategy is a review of current unmanned ground vehicle technologies within the Future Combat System /Army Brigade Combat Team Modernization Program, a One Semi-automated Force based analysis of these system s impact on the effectiveness and efficiency of infantry units and a recommendation of acquisitions strategies as these technologies enter the force through programs of record. The report finds that there are significant increases in small infantry unit combat effectiveness as objectively measured by lethality, survivability, and mission accomplishment. Additionally, small unit leaders gain previously unavailable situational awareness opening tactical options previously unavailable in the current fight under our current restrictive rules of engagement. Further, an analysis of potential acquisition strategies recommends movement away from the current theater provided equipment model of the systems and instead pushes for the adoption of the technology as MTOE equipment focusing on leveraging scheduled software and processor upgrades to maintain equipment as state of the art.