Roboteam, an Israeli developer of unmanned systems, will equip the United States Marine Corps with around 200 tactical robots under a $30 million contract. As reported by Breaking Defense on May 30, 2024, Roboteam’s CEO, Matan Shirvi, stated that this transaction reflects a “rising demand” for such systems.
Shirvi believes soldiers will use more technology, including robots, to achieve a tactical advantage.
The Micro Tactical Ground Robot (MTGR) system, one of Roboteam’s five types of robotic systems, is a standout with its portability and versatility. Weighing only 15 kilograms, it is the company’s second lightest robot, making it an ideal tool for various military operations.
Roboteam’s strategic partnership with Mistral Inc., its American partner, played a crucial role in securing its first deal with the Marine Corps. The initial Marine Corps procurement, announced on May 28, 2024, involves 130 systems and is part of a larger order for 200 units, which are slated to be delivered in the first quarter of 2025. The order covers spare parts and maintenance, ensuring the Marines’ long-term use of the MTGR.
The MTGR includes tracks, a manipulator for inspecting items, and communication and optical systems. However, Shirvi stressed that it is also modular, allowing customers to add their own payloads to the computer. He explained that the company is open to customization.
According to the manufacturer, the MTGR’s capabilities and versatility ensure excellent navigation and field task execution, whether it is used for EOD operations, special operations, or tactical movements.
Shirvi stated that the MTGR being provided to the Marines is “tailored” to their operational requirements, allowing them to maintain battlefield superiority while also improving their daily operations capability.
The MTGR was created in partnership with the US Department of Defense, and Roboteam’s primary market and production facilities are in the United States. Robots and autonomous systems are becoming more common on the battlefield, as recent battles in Gaza and Ukraine have demonstrated their usefulness. Roboteam’s customers include the Israel Defense Forces, which have been using miniature robots in Gaza to examine Hamas tunnels since 2014.
According to Shirvi, most governments and military organizations are looking for ways to “remove soldiers from the battlefield” and create a safety buffer between soldiers and the most dangerous locations.
The CEO added that the company has worked with clients to get feedback on the robots it has delivered over the last decade, which has resulted in better reliability and new innovations. Shirvi highlighted that the latest versions of the robots had increased communication capabilities as well as vision and optics.
Shirvi envisions a promising future, anticipating that the new deal with the Marines will open doors for other customers. He also foresees a shift in demand as battlefields evolve, with consumers potentially requiring thousands of these robots, a significant increase from the hundreds currently in use.
