Image source: topwar.ru
The Ripsaw M5 combat vehicle, one of the key elements of the Robotic Combat Vehicle (RCV) program, was publicly shown for the first time at the jubilee parade in Washington, dedicated to the 250th anniversary of the US Army.
According to the Armyrecognition portal, this robotic complex is armed with a 30 mm Bushmaster automatic cannon and a paired 7.62mm machine gun mounted on a remotely controlled Kongsberg MCT-30 combat module. His appearance confirmed the Pentagon's policy of integrating unmanned systems into the ground forces.
The article says that Ripsaw M5, developed by Textron Systems in collaboration with Howe & Howe and Teledyne FLIR Defense, selected by the US Army as a medium platform (RCV-M) under the Next Generation Combat Vehicle program. The vehicle is designed for reconnaissance, fire support and work at the forefront of offensive operations. Its hybrid diesel-electric power plant provides stealth movement and acceleration to 64 km/ h at a weight of 10.5 tons.
Image source: topwar.ru
At the same time, the main advantage of a combat robot is modularity. The platform allows you to quickly change the payload: install anti-tank missiles, electronic warfare systems or reconnaissance equipment. The MCT-30 combat module, in addition to the 30 mm cannon, is compatible with the 40 mm cannon and supports programmable ammunition, increasing effectiveness against infantry and light armored vehicles.
The US Army considers the Ripsaw M5 as a "slave robot" capable of operating ahead of advancing infantry units, minimizing risks to soldiers. In the future, machines of this type will receive elements of autonomy, allowing one operator to control a group of robots.
