J8 Atlas XTR: a UGV for defense, disaster relief and rescue operations

ARGO’s Space, Robotics and Defense Division recently announced the release of the ARGO J8 Atlas XTR (Xtreme Terrain Robot).

This UGV (Unmanned Ground Vehicle) is designed for defense, disaster relief missions and rescue operations.

Today, UGVs are playing an increasingly important role in hazardous and extreme environment operations.

ARGO developed the electric 8-wheeled amphibious, all-terrain mobile robot to help protect the lives of soldiers and keep humans out of harm’s way.

J8 Atlas XTR

The J8 Atlas XTR features a customizable platform that can adapt to any mission-specific payload device or system. Its uses include navigating and monitoring unsafe areas without risking soldiers’ safety. Both the Canadian and U.S. Armed Forces have trialed the J8 Atlas XTR, with positive outcomes.

The Atlas J8 XTR traverses difficult terrain in extreme weather conditions. It can carry payloads up to 600 kg (1,320 lbs.) on land and 300 kg (660 lbs.) on water. It is capable of operating in temperatures from -20C to +40C. Also, thanks to its fully electric drive system, it has a near silent noise signature.

In addition, the J8 has a built in two speed transmission that results in a top speed in excess of 30km/h and a typical working speed of 0 – 10 km/h.

Requiring minimal training and low maintenance, the J8 also features intuitive user-friendly controls. This allows operators to maneuver it via remote tele-operation or line-of-sight radio frequency (RF) with a rugged hand held controller.

Remote operation functionality

Fully autonomous, the J8 is capable of self-navigating pre-defined missions in both GPS enabled and GPS denied environments. Furthermore, it has obstacle detection and avoidance. The vehicle’s unique ‘Follow Me’ mode allows wireless tethering to a leader and respond to their movements and direction with the mission route saved for autonomous execution.

In March, ARGO received a $1 million contract for three ARGO Atlas J8 XTR. They are currently being tested by Defence Research and Development Canada, an agency of National Defence, at the Suffield Research in Alberta.

The U.S. Army’s Rapid Equipping Force (REF) purchased several vehicles in recent months, testing them at the Muscatatuck Urban Training Center (MUTC) in Butlerville, Indiana. The view is to ultimately deploy it in defense operations.

“With the ARGO Atlas J8 XTR, militaries and defense contractors have a mission ready, cost-effective solution that can reduce exposure to threats for troops and minimize the manpower required for disaster response and rescue operations,” said Jason Scheib, ARGO Robotics & Defense Sales Manager. “UGVs such as the Atlas J8 have a huge potential within the next generation of defense operations. We look forward to working with customers to develop and deploy solutions that meet their needs.”

About ARGO

Since 2008, ARGO’s Space, Robotics and Defense Division has developed more than 20 robotic rover platforms designed for the harshest terrains on earth, and in space. The company’s latest generation of J-class robots offers a new level of mobility. Applications include agricultural, industrial, security, and defense markets. Plus, any application where extreme mobility, personnel safety, security, and durability are required. ARGO XTR robots are a proven, affordable platform.

Find out more about ARGO’s line of UGVs at Unmanned Systems Source.