MSPO 2022: Taero optionally unmanned ground vehicle developed for Polish airborne troops

The new Taero optionally unmanned ground vehicle was unveiled at MSPO 2022. (Jakub Link-Lenczowski)

A Polish consortium between Wojskowy Instytut Techniki Pancernej i Samochodowej (WITPiS), Stekop, Auto Podlasie, and AP Solutions unveiled the new Taero optionally unmanned ground vehicle (UGV) at the International Defence Industry Exhibition MSPO 2022 held in Kielce from 6 to 9 September. The vehicle is based on the Aero 4×4 Pojazdy Wojsk Aeromobilnych (PWA) next-generation lightweight all-terrain airborne vehicle used by the Polish Army's 6th Airborne Brigade.

The platform is fitted with the Central Vehicle Control System (Centralny System Sterowania Pojazdem: CSSP) developed by Stekop. The system equips a standard Aero 4×4 vehicle, enabling it to move on a previously programmed route, to be remotely controlled by an operator, to follow troops autonomously, and to team with other manned platforms.

Taero is fitted with electro-optical sensors and a dual antenna, as well as a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) receiver and light detection and ranging (lidar), which enables detection of obstacles and calculation of the optimal route. The UGV's navigation system uses a Global Positioning System (GPS) signal, with the CSSP providing inertial navigation in case of GNSS denial.

Taero's modular design enables it to be fitted for various missions. The onboard 30 kW power source can supply both reconnaissance and remote weapon systems. Taero can be fitted with explosive, nuclear, biological, and chemical detectors. Another application is remote-controlled medical evacuation.

The UGV has a 96 kW diesel engine and a 50 kW auxiliary electric motor. Its maximum speed is 100 km/h, with a recommended speed of 50 km/h. It weighs 2,800 kg and its payload capacity is 1,000 kg.