Overland AI unveils SPARK to enable instant autonomy for military ground vehicles

SPARK is designed for rapid deployment across military fleets, enabling the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) and other agencies to upgrade their vehicles swiftly. This solution addresses the growing demand for autonomous capabilities in military operations, where real-time adaptability is crucial.

The system features Overland AI’s ultra-compact compute module, which is compatible with a wide range of military vehicles. Its perception suite uses LiDAR and stereo cameras to operate effectively in low-visibility conditions, while integrated GPS, IMU, and speed encoders ensure precise navigation.

SPARK’s modular design allows for quick installation with minimal modifications to the host vehicle. Importantly, the system retains manual control options, giving operators the flexibility to switch between autonomous and human-driven modes as needed.

Given the challenges of modern warfare, SPARK is built to function in environments where GPS signals may be jammed, and communications disrupted. To maintain connectivity, the system supports multiple communication channels, including Starlink, tactical mesh, LTE, and WiFi, ensuring reliable operations in contested areas.

“Autonomous vehicles act as force multipliers, allowing a single operator to command multiple units while staying out of harm’s way,” said Greg Okopal, Chief Operating Officer of Overland AI. He emphasised that troops should have access to such critical technology within days rather than years.

Overland AI was founded in 2022 and is headquartered in Seattle, Washington. The company specialises in autonomous ground systems for defence applications, leveraging advanced robotics and artificial intelligence to support military missions in complex environments.