- New Prototyping Contracts: The Army has selected American Rheinmetall Vehicles and HDT Expeditionary Systems to develop prototypes for the next phase of the Small Multipurpose Equipment Transport (S-MET) program, with each company producing eight prototypes for a total of $22 million.
- Enhanced Capabilities: The second increment of S-MET aims to double the payload capacity to 2,000 pounds, improve exportable power for unmanned systems, operate more quietly, and include an integrated wireless communication network, addressing critical operational needs.
- Future Production Plans: After the prototyping and testing phases, the Army plans to award a production contract for S-MET Increment II by late fiscal year 2027, with intentions to purchase up to 2,195 systems to support lighter combat formations.
The Army has awarded contracts to American Rheinmetall Vehicles and HDT Expeditionary Systems to develop prototypes for advanced equipment-carrying robots. This announcement, made on Tuesday, highlights the next phase of the Small Multipurpose Equipment Transport (S-MET) program, which aims to enhance operational efficiency for soldiers in the field. The selection process involved several contenders, including General Dynamics Land Systems and partnerships like Anduril with Hanwha, as well as Teledyne FLIR. Notably, General Dynamics had previously secured contracts for the initial increment of the S-MET project.
Under the latest contracts, each company will produce eight prototypes at a combined cost of $22 million. This investment is part of the Army’s broader strategy to address critical operational challenges, such as reducing the physical burdens on soldiers, improving battery recharge capabilities during extended missions, and minimizing the logistical support required for semi-independent operations. The Army’s project manager for force projection, Kyle Bruner, emphasized that the new S-MET systems are designed to enhance combat effectiveness by alleviating fatigue and injuries caused by heavy loads.
The first iteration of the S-MET, which was radio-controlled and featured an eight-wheeled platform, had a payload capacity of 1,000 pounds. The upcoming second increment aims to double this capacity, allowing the robots to support heavier operational demands. Additionally, improvements will include enhanced exportable power to support unmanned aircraft systems, quieter operation, and an integrated wireless mesh communication network. These upgrades are intended to bolster the robot’s functionality in various combat scenarios.
Another critical requirement for the second increment is modularity and an open architecture, which will facilitate easier and more cost-effective upgrades in the future. This approach aligns with the Army’s commitment to adaptability and innovation in military technology. Following the prototyping and developmental testing phases, the Army anticipates awarding a production contract for S-MET Increment II by late fiscal year 2027, with plans to acquire up to 2,195 units.
While the Army is also exploring different robotic combat vehicles for heavy maneuver forces, the S-MET is positioned as a more versatile solution for lighter formations. Maj. Gen. Glenn Dean, the Army’s Program Executive Officer for Ground Combat Systems, has indicated the growing value of the S-MET platform through ongoing experimentation. This emphasis on a small, capable robot underscores the Army’s intent to leverage technology to enhance the operational capabilities of its units in diverse environments.
