Leader/Follower

Abstract

Tactical Wheeled Vehicle Leader Follower program provides transportation units with the capability for Tactical Wheeled Vehicles (TWVs) to operate in an unmanned mode, beginning with the Palletized Loading System (PLS) vehicles, while operating in a convoy. This is accomplished by integrating technology to the unmanned vehicles which enables them to follow a manned lead vehicle. This is done in a March Unit of up to (8) TWVs initially PLS vehicles, with (1) manned Lead vehicle and (3) to (7) unmanned follower vehicles. This capability provides increased Soldier Force Protection and increased convoy logistics throughput by giving commanders more options on Soldier utilization, removing Soldiers from threat zones and/or utilizing vehicle operators for convoy security, and allowing supply convoys to run more often. FY 2021 Project EZ8 Base funds will execute testing for the Tactical Wheeled Leader Follower program for safety and performance evaluations by the Army Test & Evaluation Command (ATEC) to support a production decision by the Milestone Decision Authority, fund Program Management office lifecycle planning, and engagements with industry to plan and solicit proposals for the program of record contracts. In addition, Project EZ8 Base funds exploration and development of the Expedient Leader Follower (ExLF) Applique on additional systems (Heavy Expanded Mobility Tactical Truck (HEMTT), Family of Medium Tactical Vehicles (FMTV), and 915 truck fleets) beyond the Palletized Load System (PLS).

Document Details

• Document Type: Project
• Publication Date: Oct 01, 2021
• Source ID: EZ8_0604622A_5_2040_PB_2021

Tags

Readers

• Logistics and Supply Chain Management.
• Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) Autonomous Capabilities and Mission Reconnaissance.

Technology Areas

• Autonomy
• Autonomy - UAVs