THeMIS (Tracked Hybrid Modular Infantry System) is a multi-mission, unmanned ground vehicle (UGV) being developed by Estonia-based defence and security services provider Milrem, with support from Estonian Ministry of Defence.
The first prototype of the UGV was unveiled at the Defence Security and Equipment International 2015 (DSEI 2015) defence and security exhibition held in London in September 2015. A new variant of the THeMIS UGV, named THeMIS ADDER, was introduced at the Singapore Airshow 2016.
The THeMIS infantry system is expected to undergo live fire tests in 2016.
THeMIS hybrid UGV mission capabilities
The UGV is designed to perform a wide range of military missions in dangerous or hard-to-reach areas. It offers enhanced safety and operational effectiveness by keeping warfighters at a safe distance from enemy attack.
The vehicle can be configured for different roles including reconnaissance, observation, target acquisition, communications relay, logistics support platform, rescue, fire-fighting, and medical evacuation (medevac).
THeMIS UGV design and features
The THeMIS unmanned ground vehicle is based on tracked chassis with two crawler tracks connected by a large central bay. Its compact size and modular design help reduce life cycle management costs and simplify maintenance operations.
The length and width of the vehicle are 2.1m each and the height is 0.98m. The UGV has a base kerb weight of 850kg and can carry payloads of 750kg.
The central bay is designed to incorporate different mission equipment including cargo, towing equipment, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and weapons systems as per the operational requirements. The medevac configuration can carry a stretcher.
The THeMIS ADDER features the same base platform but different layout.
Armament of THeMIS unmanned ground vehicle
The THeMIS multi-purpose infantry system can be armed with a variety of weaponry such as anti-tank missiles, machine guns and remote control weapon station (RCWS) to engage light armoured vehicles.
The THeMIS ADDER variant features ADDER RCWS developed by ST Kinetics. The ADDER weapon station is compatible with weapons including 7.62mm general-purpose machine gun, 12.7mm machine gun, 40mm automatic grenade launcher (CIS 40 AGL), and CIS 50MG machine gun.
The onboard video tracking system allows engagement of both stationary and moving targets. The ADDER also features day and night imaging cameras, a laser rangefinder and an optional 40mm air-bursting munition system.
Command and control
In remote control mode, a command and control station allows the operator to receive real-time sensor data from the THeMIS unmanned vehicle and to transmit command data to the vehicle through a tactical data link.
An autonomous controlled system installed in the UGV provides autonomous real-time control and obstacle avoidance capabilities. It automatically directs the vehicle to reach a target along the desired path.
THeMIS engine and mobility
The unmanned ground vehicle is powered by a hybrid propulsion system, consisting of a diesel engine and an electric motor. It can run solely on electric motor using lithium-ion batteries, developed by Denchi Power, and graphene ultracapacitors.
Manufactured by Skeleton Technologies, the ultracapacitors deliver increased energy efficiency and reliable operation.
The lightweight tracked suspension system offers high mobility on off-road conditions.
The infantry system can travel at a speed of 50km/h and can endure for up to eight hours.
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