Germany’s Bundeswehr is set to acquire four VISION 60 quadrupedal unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) from LIG Nex1. Originally developed by U.S.-based Ghost Robotics, which was acquired by LIG Nex1, the VISION 60 will be used by the German military for reconnaissance and detection operations.
According to a report by the German daily Welt, the Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology, and In-Service Support (BAAINBw) recently placed an order for the four units through a robotics distributor in Thuringia. The procurement was made under a direct supply contract, though the cost was not disclosed. Industry sources estimate the base price of a VISION 60 at $165,000, with fully equipped models costing up to 500 million won ($373,000) each.
The VISION 60 is designed to navigate rough terrain such as gravel, hills, and stairs using its four legs. It can travel up to 10 kilometers at a speed of 3 meters per second, operating for about three hours. The UGV measures 95 centimeters in length, stands 68.5 centimeters tall, and weighs 51 kilograms. Its body is made of an aluminum alloy, and it is equipped with advanced reconnaissance cameras and landmine detection sensors.
The Bundeswehr plans to test the VISION 60 primarily for reconnaissance and detection purposes. This new acquisition is expected to replace the military’s use of Boston Dynamics’ Spot robot, introduced as part of a modernization effort in 2021 and named “Wolfgang-001″ during trials.
In 2022, Boston Dynamics issued a statement opposing the weaponization of its robots, including provisions in its user licenses that restrict the use of its robots in activities that could harm humans. However, the VISION 60 is not subject to such restrictions. LIG Nex1′s acquisition of Ghost Robotics was driven by its intent to use the platform for military purposes. While the VISION 60 units being delivered to the Bundeswehr will be unarmed, there is potential for future weaponization, such as mounting machine guns.
