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General Dynamics Land Systems has completed further testing of its Advanced Reconnaissance Vehicle (ARV) Command, Control, Communications, Computers/Unmanned Aerial Systems (C4/UAS) variant with the U.S. Marine Corps.
Designed for the Marine Corps’ future Mobile Reconnaissance Battalions, the C4/UAS ARV variant was built to serve as the “quarterback” on the mobile and multi-domain battlefield.
The ARV connects to a series of onboard and off-board sensors, military UAS, and in the future, ground and water robotic systems. Its modular open architecture allows for rapid integration of new technology.
In anticipation of potential future requirements, the ARV also incorporates the company’s Next Generation Electronic Architecture, enabling artificial intelligence functionality and control of robotic systems.
Marine Corps Testing
In 2024, the U.S. Marine Corps and company-led tests assessed land mobility, maintenance, logistics, training, and mission performance. Primary test locations included the Michigan Technological University Keweenaw Research Center (KRC) in Calumet, Mich., and the U.S. Army’s Ground Vehicle Systems Center (GVSC), Detroit Arsenal in Warren, Mich.
A key focus in 2024 was assessing the ARV’s maintenance and logistics capabilities with Marine operators. As a result, General Dynamics Land Systems incorporated modern digital maintenance and prognostic monitoring systems in the ARV.
In addition to Marine Corps-directed testing, General Dynamics Land Systems enhanced its demonstrations by introducing its next-generation Digital Training System (DTS), which eventually will enable ARV training at the individual, crew and unit levels for tactical operations and maintenance activities.
Future Developments
In 2025, General Dynamics Land Systems will complete manufacturing and delivery of an ARV-30mm prototype for testing and evaluation. The company also will deliver a second Systems Integration Lab (SIL) for the ARV program.
The primary purpose of the SIL, designed to replicate the interior of the company’s C4/UAS vehicle, is to validate the integration of the Command, Control, Communications, Computers and Intelligence (C4/I) systems and software.
It is thought that the SIL also will serve as an immersive experience for ARV mission operators and crew to train and simulate real-world missions with full, representative vehicle functionality.
Richard Trotter, ARV Program Director at General Dynamics Land System, “The testing and demonstration activities last year helped us collect additional data to ensure we can meet or exceed the Marine Corps’ requirements for ARV, especially in the critical area of maintenance, logistics and training.
“We have said this before, and it is worth repeating: The ARV is highly mobile on land and in the water, allowing Marines to sense, communicate and connect to kill webs on the future battlefield like never before.
“Recent tests were some of the most extensive to date for us to trial our innovative technologies. We pride ourselves on delivering capabilities for today and also are thoughtful, deliberate and innovative about realizing the future vision of the Marine Corps. We look forward to continuing our long partnership with the Marines and contributing to their efforts to ensure that ARV is a transformational reconnaissance capability.”
Marc Shepard, ARV Program Manager at General Dynamics Land Systems, stated, “Partnering with the Marines in the ARV testing and demonstrations provides very valuable feedback. Their collaborative, constructive feedback is invaluable as we aim for a transformational, 21st century solution.”
