On May 27, 2026, U.S.-based Rheinmetall, a prominent defense contractor, teamed up with electric vehicle startup Harbinger to co-develop unmanned ground vehicles tailored for the U.S. Army's needs. Harbinger contributes a cost-effective, medium-duty hybrid chassis that seamlessly integrates autonomous driving capabilities. Priced on par with traditional diesel counterparts, this chassis boasts a comprehensive drive-by-wire system and a fuel range extender, ensuring extended operational range and minimized detectability. Rheinmetall, on the other hand, takes charge of incorporating lethal and non-lethal payloads, sensors, communication systems, and protective measures, aligning with the U.S. military's quest for expendable, autonomous, and swiftly scalable equipment. This collaborative effort strives to minimize casualties and deliver budget-friendly, adaptable robotic systems. Joint demonstrations are slated to commence in the summer of 2026.
