The TOM 50 RE is a compact, backpack-portable uncrewed ground vehicle (UGV) developed by Telerob, a wholly owned subsidiary of AeroVironment.
The UGV is designed for mobile exploration, mission-accompanying reconnaissance, explosive threat disposal, and general operational support for dismounted troops, explosive ordnance disposal teams and specialist units, including SWAT.
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The system was unveiled in June at the Eurosatory 2026 defence and security exhibition in Paris, France.
TOM 50 RE design and features
The TOM 50 RE UGV uses tracked running gear and is fitted with two removable flippers. It measures 16.5in × 10.6in × 5.2in (420mm × 270mm × 133mm) without flippers, increasing to 16.5in × 13.3in × 5.2in when flippers are installed.
The UGV weighs 15.4lb (7kg) without batteries and flippers, increasing to under 22lb when fitted with two batteries and flippers.
The system’s modular design, using the Mission Module Interface or an adapter compatible with Telerob’s Universal Component Interface, supports integration of mission payloads such as camera packages and disruptors, tailoring the system to evolving operational requirements.
Sensors and communication
The UGV is provided by four integrated high-resolution wide-angle cameras with infrared capability, delivering 360-degree awareness in low light and degraded visual conditions.
Communications are handled through an internet protocol-mesh radio architecture intended to provide resilient links, with the option for the vehicle to act as a mobile repeater to extend connectivity inside buildings or in complex terrain.
The TOM 50 RE also incorporates onboard simultaneous localisation and mapping (SLAM) capability to generate maps of interior spaces where GPS is unavailable.
Operators can pinpoint and log points of interest directly on the digital map, then export mission data immediately after operations. This speeds up intelligence exploitation, supports better-informed decisions and improves the planning of subsequent activity.
Command and control
The TOM 50 RE is controlled using AV_Halo COMMAND through the Tomahawk Grip family of systems or via the Robo Command control system. This allows operators to manage the UGV alongside other uncrewed platforms, supporting coordinated robotic activity and improving situational awareness during missions.
The AV_Halo COMMAND combines AV’s Kinesis universal tactical control architecture with the VigilantHalo mission control user interface and a sensor fusion engine to provide layered command and control for offensive and defensive tasks, while also supporting integration with other AV_Halo services and third-party mission systems.
Mobility and performance
The TOM 50 RE platform has a top speed of 3.7mph (6km/h), an endurance of up to six hours and supports payloads of up to 11lb.
It can negotiate a 5.5in obstacle and cross a 7.9in gap. With flippers installed, these figures increase to 11.8in and 15.7in, respectively, and it can climb stairs and slopes of 45-degrees.
TOM 50 RE mission profiles
The TOM 50 RE UGV is suitable for four broad mission roles: mobile exploration, reconnaissance, defusing tasks and support roles.
For mobile exploration, it is intended to enhance situational awareness in unfamiliar or high-risk environments, allowing operators to inspect structures, confined spaces and urban terrain while reducing personnel exposure.
When deployed for reconnaissance alongside teams, its integrated SLAM capability enables movement through multi-storey buildings, generating interior maps, and identifying and marking hazards or points of interest for follow-on forces.
For defusing tasks, the platform supports the neutralisation of improvised explosive devices and other explosive hazards through modular disruptor and drop-charge payloads, helping operators address threats from a safe distance. In a support role, and in conjunction with the telemax EVO family of products, the system is capable of serving as a mobile communications relay, extending operational reach, providing additional viewing angles, and aiding coordination between robotic and human elements across dispersed teams.
