The Army has selected American Rheinmetall Vehicles and HDT Expeditionary Systems to build prototypes of equipment-carrying robots for the second increment of the Small Multipurpose Equipment Transport (S-MET). General Dynamics Land Systems, Anduril, Hanwha, and Teledyne FLIR were also competing for the contract.
American Rheinmetall and HDT will each build eight prototypes for a combined total of $22 million. The goal for the second increment is to double the weight the robot can carry, increase exportable power, reduce noise, and integrate a wireless communication network.
The Army plans to award a production contract for S-MET Increment II after prototyping and testing in late fiscal year 2027, with a goal to purchase up to 2,195 systems. The vehicle is intended for lighter formations, with a focus on reducing soldier load and enhancing combat effectiveness.
Maj. Gen. Glenn Dean, the Army’s Program Executive Officer for Ground Combat Systems, sees the S-MET as a valuable platform for experimentation and potential widespread use within the Army.
