Unmanned Ground Vehicles (UGV)
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A new strategic partnership between software-defined propulsion developer Hypercraft and airspace security provider Fortem Technologies aims to deliver advanced, mobile all-domain airspace denial.
The collaboration integrates Fortem’s TrueView radar and tactical mitigation systems directly onto Hypercraft’s recently launched Razorback hybrid Unmanned Ground Vehicle (UGV). This combination establishes a persistent, mobile “Sensor-to-Shooter” link designed to neutralize Group 1 and Group 2 Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) threats within contested environments.
This joint integration targets a critical vulnerability on the modern battlefield known as the counter-unmanned aerial systems (C-UAS) persistence gap. While traditional counter-drone systems are typically limited to fixed locations or loud, high-thermal internal combustion vehicles, this alliance utilizes a diesel-hybrid mission platform to transition advanced radar assets directly to the tactical edge. Supported by airspace intelligence from Fortem Technologies—which was recently bolstered by a $25 million investment from Lockheed Martin—the combined solution aligns with the Department of Defense’s shift toward Modular Open Systems Architecture (MOSA) and “Drones-as-a-Service” (DaaS) operational models.
Traditional air defense platforms frequently face logistical limitations due to their reliance on fixed sites or high-signature vehicles. The Razorback addresses this restriction through a diesel-hybrid electric powertrain, which provides an operating range of 280 miles while carrying its full 2,400 lbs payload capacity.
Brian Bowers, CEO at Hypercraft, commented, “The modern battlefield requires more than just sensors; it requires persistent, silent mobility. Razorback provides 360-degree protection while maintaining a thermal signature of less than 15°C over ambient. We aren’t just moving a sensor; we are deploying a persistent energy node that can stay on-station for weeks in ‘Silent Watch’ mode if the mission requires.”
In addition to its low thermal signature, the platform functions as a mobile microgrid by providing 38kW of exportable power. This capability allows the vehicle to power Directed Energy Weapons (DEW), high-power electronic warfare jamming equipment, and advanced intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) sensor suites at the tactical edge.
For mobility and deployment speed, the platform features a governed top speed of 60 mph, 100% torque availability at zero RPM, and multiple steering modes to ensure C-UAS protection can keep pace with rapid-maneuver units. Interoperability is managed via an integrated universal RAS-G IOP software and drive-by-wire layer. This makes the vehicle a DoW-compliant solution that permits the integration of platform equipment and various autonomy stacks through standard protocols and open APIs.
The vehicle’s longevity and adaptability are supported by a Central-Zonal Computing Architecture and Vehicle Operating System (VOS), which enable over-the-air (OTA) updates as command-and-control (C2) and artificial intelligence requirements evolve. By aligning with MOSA standards and providing “Right to Maintain” and “Right to Develop” access to end-users, the platform is structured to adapt to changing UAS threats without necessitating costly hardware redesigns, effectively bridging the gap between heavy-payload logistics and modern military stealth requirements.
