Sweden has become the first European nation to acquire the RIPSAW M3 robotic ground vehicle, marking a significant milestone for Textron Systems’ expanding unmanned ground portfolio. The purchase highlights Sweden’s continued investment in next-generation autonomous battlefield technology as militaries worldwide accelerate the adoption of advanced robotic platforms.
The RIPSAW M3, part of Textron’s well-known RIPSAW family, is a rugged, modular, hybrid-electric robotic vehicle engineered for rapid integration of diverse payloads, control systems, and autonomy packages. Built for harsh terrain, it features composite rubber tracks, high ground clearance, and open-architecture design, making it adaptable to a wide range of missions.
Weighing 14,800 pounds (6,711 kg), the platform supports payloads of up to 5,000 pounds (2,268 kg) and delivers 10 kilowatts of onboard power, enabling it to host advanced sensors, remote-weapon stations, EW systems, or other mission-critical equipment. Its 63-square-foot (5.85-square-meter) modular deck, standing 48 inches (1.22 meters) high, provides ample space for mission-specific configurations.
With a footprint of 206 × 80 inches (5.23 × 2.03 meters) and a top speed exceeding 30 miles (48 km) per hour, the unmanned vehicle is optimized for reconnaissance, logistics, and light combat support. The RIPSAW M3’s selection earlier this year for the US Army’s Robotic Combat Vehicle (RCV) program further reinforces its growing role as a leading ground-robotics solution.
