The United States Army is intensifying its pursuit of autonomous technology for the modern battlefield, awarding contracts totaling $15.5 million to three commercial startups. The initiative aims to rapidly integrate self-driving systems into Infantry Squad Vehicles (ISVs), marking a significant push to accelerate the development of robotic capabilities for combat scenarios. The contracts have been awarded to Overland AI, Forterra, and Scout AI, who are now tasked with developing and delivering prototype autonomous systems. According to an Army statement, the goal is to “rapidly integrate and deliver commercial autonomous mobility into Army formations.” This effort, part of the “Unmanned Systems (UxS) Autonomy” program, has set an ambitious timeline, with the companies expected to present their prototypes for soldier demonstration and evaluation by May 2026. Stephanie Bonk, co-founder and president of Overland AI, highlighted the program’s significance. “There was really the time before the DARPA RACER program and then the time after,” she said. “Prior to that, there really was no focus on navigating through unstructured terrain,” Bonk emphasized that the current program is not just a technological demonstration but is aimed at delivering a tangible operational capability directly into the hands of soldiers. “A major focus of this program is integrating with soldiers, and I think that’s something we’re incredibly excited about.”

Full report : The United States Army Taps Overland AI, Scout AI and Forterra for Robotic Squad Vehicles.

For more see the OODA Company Profile on Overland AI and Scout AI.