Textron Systems and its subsidiary Howe & Howe Inc. have pulled the wraps off a new unmanned ground vehicle (UGV) that can launch loitering munitions.
Called RIPSAW M1, the platform is built on a Modular Open Systems Approach, allowing components to be easily upgraded.
Its mission set includes hard-kill counter-unmanned aerial system operations, as well as reconnaissance, surveillance, and target acquisition.
It is intended to extend the reach and lethality of existing systems, while helping keep personnel out of harm’s way and reducing risk to heavier, more expensive ground vehicles.
Once operational, the RIPSAW M1 is expected to support the US Marine Corps in littoral missions and uncrewed teaming concepts of operations.
“The M1 technology demonstrator shows the art of the possible for how UGVs can support the Marine Corps’ missions,” said Sara Willett, vice president of uncrewed land and air systems at Textron Systems.
“Along with Howe & Howe, we took our experience in autonomous robotic systems across land, air, and sea… to develop this system that demonstrates our ability to scale the size, weight, and power up or down, all while maintaining the common robotic core that enables our UGVs to provide exceptional transportability and battlefield agility.”
RIPSAW M1 in Focus
Weighing 4,300 pounds (1,950 kilograms), the UGV measures 10.5 feet (3.2 meters) in length and can carry payloads of up to 2,000 pounds (907 kilograms).
It has a top speed of 53 miles (85 kilometers) per hour, dropping to 20 miles (32 kilometers) per hour in low range, and can ford water obstacles up to 48 inches (123 centimeters) deep.
A key feature is its silent electric mode that enables the UGV to travel up to 30 miles (48 kilometers) without engine noise, reducing the risk of detection during the ongoing mission.
The platform features a flat-deck architecture that allows operators to quickly swap mission payloads, ranging from sensors and launchers to logistics and electronic warfare systems.
The UGV demonstrator made its debut at the 2026 Modern Day Marine event.
