Sweded buys VIKING robotic vehicle

IVECO Defence Vehicles (IDV) has announced that the Swedish Defence Material Administration (FMV) has selected its VIKING Uncrewed Ground Vehicle (UGV) for Sweden’s Autonomous Multifunctional Ground Vehicle Demonstrator Programme (DAMM).

According to a press release from IDV, FMV will use the VIKING UGV as a central platform within the DAMM initiative, designed to test and evaluate autonomous ground vehicle capabilities. Additionally, FMV will acquire IDV’s Command and Control Basestation to support the operations and effectiveness of the autonomous systems. IDV has also committed to providing technical support for system integration and upgrades throughout the duration of the program.

The VIKING UGV is equipped with IDV’s MACE artificial intelligence-based autonomy stack, enhancing its versatility and adaptability. The vehicle has gained popularity among military forces internationally for its successful integration with various mission payloads. These capabilities include logistics, reconnaissance, surveillance, chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) response, and combat support roles.

IDV highlighted that the VIKING UGV’s adaptability has contributed to its increased adoption among military users exploring new operational concepts.

As noted by the company, the selection by FMV underscores a growing trend toward incorporating autonomous ground platforms into military strategy to address modern operational requirements.