The MoD is looking for innovative ways of significantly reducing the loads carried by our soldiers. This is part of the 'Reducing the Burden on the Dismounted Soldier Capability Vision (CV)' (see the Defence Technology Plan on www.science.mod.uk for more details on the wider CV programme).

A potential solution is a robotic support vehicle that can follow an Infantry Section (8 soldiers) and carry some of their equipment (i.e. has the same mobility and can go to the same places). We will award a number of contracts to demonstrate proof of principle (PoP) of innovative technologies and applications of technology that will improve the mobility and overall effectiveness of the Section. Creative ideas that will provide additional functionality such as fire support, autonomous route following, logistics carriage, casualty evacuation, etc should also be included.

This competition is run by the Centre of Defence Enterprise(CDE).  The CDE is the first point of contact for anyone with a disruptive technology, new process or innovation that has a potential defence application.  The centre acts as a gateway between the outside world and the Ministry of Defence, bringing together innovation and investment for the defence market, ensuring that front-line forces have the best battle-winning technologies for the future. 

For more details and the portal to apply for this competition, please see http://www.science.mod.uk/engagement/enterprise.aspx