Introducing the Hornet UGV
Czech defense company LPP Holding has officially unveiled its latest innovation, an autonomous unmanned ground vehicle (UGV) named the “Hornet.” This cutting-edge vehicle is specifically engineered for military logistics, primarily focusing on ammunition delivery and casualty evacuation missions.
The Hornet UGV boasts an advanced autonomous control system, which empowers it to perform tasks independently, without the need for human intervention. It possesses sophisticated algorithms that enable it to calculate optimal routes and navigate around obstacles, even in challenging and unfamiliar environments.
Versatile Capabilities
One of the remarkable features of the Hornet is its adaptability to a variety of roles. It can be reconfigured to serve multiple purposes such as combat support, medical emergency response, intelligence gathering, surveillance, reconnaissance, and assistance in chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear operations, thereby enhancing overall force protection.
Notably, the Hornet is currently being evaluated for potential deployment by the Ukrainian defense forces. Recently, LPP conducted field tests of its MTS family of artificial intelligence-equipped strike drones in Ukraine, indicating a robust interest in integrating these advanced technologies into active military operations.
Design and Specifications
The Hornet UGV is designed as a lightweight, electro-hybrid vehicle measuring 2.8 meters (9.25 feet) in length, 1.6 meters (5.2 feet) in width, and standing 97 centimeters (3.2 feet) tall. It boasts an impressive payload capacity of 350 kilograms (771 pounds), making it capable of carrying heavy loads essential for military logistics.
Equipped with multispectral imaging systems, the Hornet significantly enhances reconnaissance and surveillance capabilities. A standout feature of this UGV is its ability to autonomously navigate treacherous terrain without relying on pre-mapped data, which is particularly useful in scenarios where GNSS signals are unavailable.
Advanced Navigation Technology
LPP has incorporated its own proprietary navigation system into the Hornet, utilizing a combination of camera sensors, LiDAR, and inertial measurement technologies. This sophisticated system employs simultaneous localization and mapping technology, as well as environmental segmentation systems, to allow the Hornet to adapt its navigation dynamically to fluctuating environmental conditions.
This technological prowess equips the Hornet with the capacity to respond in real-time to obstacles and hazards, ensuring successful mission execution even in unpredictable settings. As a result, the Hornet represents a significant leap forward in the development of autonomous military ground vehicles.
