IDV wins NATO contract to develop advanced robotic and autonomous defence systems

The programme requires IDV to combine Uncrewed Ground Vehicles (UGVs) and Uncrewed Air Systems (UAS), managed via an advanced, interoperable Command and Control (C2) system distributed across pre-defined network nodes. This integrated system is designed to deliver RAS capabilities in complex, real-world warfighting scenarios.

Operational concepts and use cases will be developed collaboratively with military end users, demonstrating the transformative impact of an integrated RAS solution. These scenarios aim to highlight improvements in operational effectiveness, efficiency, and safety for personnel on the battlefield.

The project is led by IDV and brings together a consortium of advanced technology providers from NATO countries, each contributing complementary RAS capabilities. Participating companies include LEM, SIRALAB, and REBEL ALLIANCE, alongside IDV’s own expertise in land autonomy.

IDV will deploy its state-of-the-art platforms, including the VIKING UGV and the Optionally Uncrewed Light Multirole Vehicle (LMV OU), which can operate manually, by remote control, or fully autonomously. Both systems support a range of mission payloads tailored to diverse military applications.

Testing will be conducted with users from the Italian Army and NATO Armed Forces to assess the systems’ contribution to mission success, including enhanced effectiveness, improved efficiency, and reduced risk to personnel. Early operational scenarios will focus on Resupply, CASEVAC and Forward MEDEVAC, Route Reconnaissance, ISTAR operations, Manned/Unmanned Teaming (MUM-T), and Recovery missions.

The outcome of this work will guide the strategic direction and implementation roadmap for the adoption of RAS technologies within NATO. “This award recognises the continuous commitment of IDV to the development of cutting-edge capabilities for the military sector and for NATO,” said Claudio Catalano, CEO of IDV.

NSPA serves as NATO’s central body for multinational acquisition, support, and sustainment, delivering cost-effective solutions for national and collective defence. With headquarters in Luxembourg and operational centres in France, Hungary, and Italy, NSPA plays a vital role in linking industry with NATO member nations.