Oshkosh Defense, a business unit of Oshkosh Corporation, is making a significant advancement in military vehicle technology with the introduction of its Family of Multi-Mission Autonomous Vehicles (FMAV). The unveiling occurs at the Association of the United States Army (AUSA) Annual Meeting & Exposition in Washington, D.C., highlighting the company’s commitment to supporting the U.S. Army‘s accelerated transformation efforts.
Meeting Army Modernization Priorities with Autonomous Solutions
As the Army pushes forward with its modernization strategy, Oshkosh Defense demonstrates how the FMAV platforms directly address critical priorities including long-range precision fires, resilient formations, and scalable autonomy. These production-based solutions are designed to reduce operational risk while enhancing capabilities for soldiers operating in contested environments. The timing coincides with broader national security developments, including significant investments in defense technology that underscore the importance of autonomous systems.
Extreme Multi-Mission Autonomous Vehicle (X-MAV)
The Oshkosh X-MAV represents a purpose-built, autonomous-capable launcher solution engineered to support future long-range munitions requirements. Featuring a robust chassis capable of handling the heaviest payloads, proven off-road mobility, and integrated onboard vehicle power, the X-MAV serves as the ideal foundation for the Common Autonomous Multi-Domain Launcher Heavy (CAML-H) program. For its debut at AUSA, the vehicle will be displayed with four Tomahawk Land Attack Missiles, demonstrating its immediate operational capabilities for multi-domain missions.
Medium Multi-Mission Autonomous Vehicle (M-MAV)
Derived from the proven Family of Medium Tactical Vehicles (FMTV) A2 platform, the M-MAV delivers an integrated, forward-looking solution to the Army’s most pressing challenges. Purpose-built for optionally manned or fully autonomous launcher operations, this variant incorporates advanced navigation systems, remote operation capabilities, and automated resupply functions. These features collectively increase survivability, reduce crew burden, and enable dispersed, resilient fires formations. The demonstration model will be equipped with the Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) Family of Munitions (MFOM), showcasing its versatility amid ongoing global trade dynamics affecting defense procurement.
Light Multi-Mission Autonomous Vehicle (L-MAV)
Evolved from the U.S. Marine Corps ROGUE-Fires platform, the L-MAV is a production-ready autonomous carrier with proven operational heritage. Its modular design allows for rapid configuration across various mission profiles, including counter-unmanned aerial systems (C-UAS), electronic warfare, and resupply operations. This flexibility enables immediate operational readiness across diverse formations. At AUSA, the L-MAV will showcase the AeroVironment Switchblade 600 Loitering Munition and Titan C-UAS, demonstrating its capability to address emerging threats in modern battlespaces.
Strategic Importance of Autonomous Platforms
According to Pat Williams, Chief Programs Officer at Oshkosh Defense, “The Army has been clear on the need for autonomous, payload-agnostic platforms that are ready now. The Oshkosh Family of Multi-Mission Autonomous Vehicles are engineered on proven tactical vehicles, with scalable autonomy and payload versatility to deliver what the Army needs today with the flexibility to adapt as the battlefield evolves.” This approach aligns with broader strategic considerations, including workforce development challenges and educational infrastructure supporting defense technology innovation.
Production-Ready Solutions for Immediate Deployment
Unlike conceptual prototypes, all three FMAV variants are production-ready, reflecting Oshkosh’s commitment to delivering operational solutions rather than experimental technology. This readiness is particularly important given the rapidly evolving nature of modern warfare and the need for systems that can be fielded immediately. The development occurs against a backdrop of economic and regulatory considerations that impact defense manufacturing and procurement timelines.
Integration with Existing Military Systems
The FMAV family is designed for seamless integration with existing military infrastructure and weapon systems. From the Tomahawk missiles on the X-MAV to the MLRS munitions on the M-MAV and the Switchblade systems on the L-MAV, these platforms demonstrate interoperability with current Army and joint force assets. This integration capability ensures that the autonomous vehicles can enhance existing capabilities rather than requiring completely new support ecosystems.
Future Development and Adaptation Potential
Oshkosh has engineered the FMAV platforms with future adaptation in mind. The scalable autonomy architecture allows for technology insertion as artificial intelligence and machine learning capabilities advance. Similarly, the payload-agnostic design ensures compatibility with emerging weapons systems and mission equipment, providing the U.S. Army with platforms that can evolve alongside changing operational requirements and threat environments.
Industry Leadership in Autonomous Military Vehicles
With this announcement, Oshkosh Corporation reinforces its position as a leader in military vehicle innovation. The company’s extensive experience in producing reliable tactical vehicles provides a solid foundation for autonomous systems that maintain the durability and performance standards expected by military users. The FMAV family represents the next logical step in the evolution of military ground vehicles, combining proven mechanical platforms with cutting-edge autonomous technology.
