BAE Systems Australia has introduced a wheeled uncrewed ground vehicle (UGV) designed to support dismounted and mechanized forces in combat. The Autonomous Tactical Light Armour System (ATLAS) Collaborative Combat Variant (CCV) is an 8×8 UGV that boasts high levels of autonomy for both on and off-road operations. The new vehicle complements crewed vehicles such as infantry fighting vehicles and main battle tanks, offering military commanders enhanced tactical flexibility while prioritizing soldier safety.
Andrew Gresham, Managing Director of Defence Delivery at BAE Systems Australia, emphasized the vehicle’s strategic importance: “ATLAS will enable the Australian Army to be fit to fight in the littoral environment. It will help the soldier outpace, out-maneuver, and out-think conventional and unconventional threats.”
The ATLAS CCV is designed to perform a wide range of combat and combat support roles, significantly enhancing the capabilities of traditional main force efforts. Its versatility allows it to supplement crewed vehicles and in stand-alone missions where an uncrewed presence is preferred.
One of the ATLAS CCV’s key strengths lies in its combination of a proven high-mobility, high-agility chassis, and running gear, coupled with the low-profile 25mm gun VANTAGE Automated Turret System (ATS). This integration, along with cutting-edge autonomy, navigation, and command and control systems, enables the vehicle to seamlessly accompany other combat vehicles on the battlefield, contributing meaningfully to mission success across various roles. The ATLAS CCV has armored sections to protect sensitive elements such as its autonomy core and ammunition storage.
As an uncrewed platform, ATLAS can be teleoperated, execute ‘follow-me’ missions following soldiers or other vehicles, navigate a course of action following predesignated waypoints while avoiding obstacles it detects on the way, or plan and perform goal-based missions. This autonomy is performed without direct human involvement but is supervised by the operator.
Reconnaissance and Surveillance
Equipped with advanced E/O and acoustic sensors as standard, including a multi-spectral automatic target detection, tracking, and classification system, the ATLAS CCV can perform reconnaissance and surveillance missions, acting as the eyes and ears of a main force. It can conduct forward reconnaissance or serve as a stationary ‘sentry’ to detect and track threats. ATLAS can also perform overwatch and electronic surveillance duties in this mode, providing critical intelligence to commanders.
Combat Wingman
Its compact size and significant organic firepower make ATLAS CCV a useful companion for crewed combat vehicles. Its high mobility using 8×8 independent wheel propulsion, central tire inflation system, run-flat inserts, and all-axle steering allows it to maintain contact with both tracked and wheeled combat vehicles across challenging terrains and in all weather conditions. As a ‘combat wingman,’ ATLAS CCV can undertake advance guard, flank security, target identification and engagement, combat reconnaissance, and direct fire support.
Assault Capabilities
The VANTAGE Automated Turret System is a lightweight, automated, medium-caliber turret designed specifically for uncrewed platforms. It incorporates a ‘human-in-the-loop’ targeting system, ensuring ethical oversight in critical decision-making processes.
The VANTAGE ATS is armed with the combat-proven M242 Bushmaster 25mm cannon, providing accurate and lethal fire up to a range of 2,500 meters. With a dual ammunition feed system, a ready-use capacity of 260 rounds, and a switch between two types of ammo – such as anti-tank and high explosive- the ATLAS CCV can engage multiple targets effectively and maintain high battlefield persistence. High elevation (+70 degrees) enables efficient C-UAS engagement. The vehicle’s 10-tonne combat weight and rugged suspension system provide a stable firing platform for consistent, accurate fire delivery.
Collaborative Combat Vehicle
ATLAS CCV’s heart lies in a sophisticated autonomy system that serves as the vehicle’s brain. This advanced technology allows the UGV to navigate independently, avoid obstacles, plan routes, and even make tactical decisions. Its modular architecture allows for mission-specific configurations and future upgrades, ensuring the vehicle can evolve to counter emerging technologies and threats.
ATLAS CCV is armed with the ‘VANTAGE’ ATS, a new, lightweight, and highly automated medium caliber turret system using the M252 25mm Bushmaster gun reused from the Australian ASLAV combat recce vehicle. Designed specifically for use on uncrewed platforms, this turret system incorporates a ‘human-in-the-loop’ targeting system, balancing autonomous operation with necessary human oversight in critical decision-making processes. The vehicle can carry several tons of cargo with first-line resupply for companion crewed platforms, including ammunition, fuel, rations, water, and mission-critical equipment.
The ATLAS CCV is powered by a Cummins ISB 6-cylinder 6.7-litre diesel engine and an Allison 3000 automatic transmission, both of which are also used in the Supacat HMT, which is also used by the Australian Army.
Practicality and logistical efficiency were key considerations in the design of ATLAS CCV. The vehicle fits into a standard 20-foot ISO container or flat rack for trucks, rail, sea, and air transportation. This feature simplifies deployment and enhances the vehicle’s role as a logistics multiplier for companion crewed platforms.
BAE Systems Australia developed the CCV as a self-funded project, working closely with partners, including Supacat in the UK and Australia, Valhalla Turrets in Slovenia, and Victorian manufacturer Marand.
BAE Systems’ unveiling of ATLAS CCV comes at a time when autonomous and semi-autonomous systems are increasingly shaping the future of warfare. The company’s expertise in this field, built on more than three decades of complex autonomous projects, positions it at the forefront of this technological revolution. As the first UGV to be developed in Australia, ATLAS CCV showcases the country’s growing capabilities in defense technology. It signals its intent to be a key player in shaping the future of military operations.
