Kodiak Launches Autonomous Military Prototype Vehicle for the US Dept. of Defense

Kodiak Robotics, Inc., a US self-driving technology developer, has unveiled its first autonomous test vehicle designed specifically for the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD). This vehicle is a Ford F-150 upfitted with Kodiak's autonomous system, the Kodiak Driver.

It contains both the autonomy hardware and software required to operate a military ground vehicle.

The Kodiak Driver-equipped vehicle is designed to handle complex military environments, diverse operational conditions, and areas with degraded GPS, as well as off-road variables like rocks, dust, mud, and water.

The Kodiak Driver also provides the Army the ability to remotely operate vehicles when necessary.

Kodiak began testing the vehicles at a U.S. military base this November 2023.

Once the testing is successfully completed, the company plans to put its autonomous system into a purpose-built ground reconnaissance vehicle for military use.

In December 2022, Kodiak announced contract award with options up to $50 Million with the U.S. DoD, specifically Defense Innovation Unit in support of the U.S. Army to develop demonstrator prototype autonomous ground vehicles.

Don Burnette, Founder and CEO, Kodiak, says: "We have built a comprehensive autonomous system that can be integrated into any vehicle, from a Class 8 truck, to a pickup, to a next-generation defense vehicle. Integrating Kodiak's technology into an off-road capable vehicle shows the potential for commercial and dual-use technology to revolutionize national security, just as the Department of Defense is looking to ramp up its focus on autonomous technology. We are proud to support the military, and look forward to the day that Kodiak Driver-powered vehicles can provide the U.S. military with more mission options and technical superiority, all while keeping our servicemen and women out of harm's way."

Kodiak Robotics is developing technology for the trucking and defence markets.