Autonomous convoy speeds increase

The latest test of autonomous truck convoys by the US military has seen vehicle speeds increase significantly

Defence technology specialist Lockheed Martin and the US Army recently conducted a second series of demonstrations of driverless military truck convoys, with the test seeing convoys of up to seven vehicles attaining speeds as high as 40mph (64km/h).

Carried out at a US Government facility in South Carolina, the latest Autonomous Mobility Applique System (AMAS) Capabilities Advancement Demonstration tests effectively saw a doubling of both the length and speed of the convoys previously demonstrated.

The vehicles used comprised one Family of Medium Tactical Vehicles (FMTV) truck, one Medium Tactical Vehicle Replacement (MTVR) vehicle, two Palletized Load System trucks, one Heavy Equipment Transport, and two M915 linehaul prime movers.

According to the AMAS Program Manager for Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control, David Simon, the demonstration was a resounding success.

"I would describe these tests as a successful demonstration of the maturing capabilities of AMAS technology," he said.

"We will conduct further safety testing within the next month, and the program will execute a six-week Operational Demonstration in the July-August timeframe, during which time soldiers and marines will assess the system benefits in realistic convoy operations."

The tests followed on from the first demonstration of the technology carried out in Fort Hood, Texas, in January 2014.

Autonomous convoy speeds increase

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