Mandrill unveiled: Quantum Systems presents first unmanned ground vehicle

Quantum Systems' "Family of Systems" strategy involves not only using components and technologies for a single platform, but also tailoring them to different requirements profiles for use in multiple unmanned systems. While various unmanned aerial systems have been manufactured to date, a "Family of Ground Systems" is now also to be created. The modular Uncrewed Ground Vehicle (UGV) Mandrill is the first offspring of this new branch of the family.

"The future of unmanned systems lies not in isolated platforms, but in intelligently networked alliances," explains Martin Karkour, Chief Revenue Officer at Quantum Systems. "The combination of proven UAV technologies and new ground robotics platforms opens up completely new operational possibilities – from sensor-based target reconnaissance from the air to autonomous support on the ground." The development of the Mandrill is therefore not just an attempt to tap into a new business area. It should be seen as part of Quantum Systems' multi-domain strategy to establish itself as a full-service provider of unmanned technologies on land, at sea and, of course, in the air.

Cross-domain networking

As with the various UAS types Twister, Trinity, Vector and Reliant, universally usable assemblies and system components are also to be used in ground vehicles to ensure that mass production is facilitated by intelligent goods flows and supply chains and that economies of scale can be exploited to increase efficiency. As with the unmanned aerial vehicle systems, the open software suite MOSAIC UXS is at the heart of the newly founded "Family of Ground Systems". The advantage: this accelerates the cross-domain networking of unmanned systems.

Thanks to its modular architecture, the Mandrill can be quickly adapted to different operational requirements and flexibly expanded with additional sensors, effectors and subsystems, according to the manufacturer. The system can therefore be used for a wide range of military and government missions, such as reconnaissance and surveillance, as a mobile UAS ground station, for logistical support or for transporting wounded personnel.

Modern application scenarios

"With MANDRILL, we are laying the foundation for a powerful and scalable family of ground-based systems," explains Hendrik Kramer, Head of Ground Robotics at Quantum Systems. "Our aim is not to develop a single vehicle, but to create a modular, networked ecosystem that can be flexibly adapted to the requirements of modern deployment scenarios."


This article was created in cooperation with Drones, the trade magazine with insights for the uncrewed future.