KNDS showcased the Unmanned Ground Vehicle (UGV) “OPTIO®-X20”, an armed version of Nexter’s new range of Multi-mission Tactical Robotics Systems. 

Le robot #OPTIO-X20 est armé du tourelleau #ARX20. Ce robot chenillé permet d’effectuer des missions de surveillance, de protection et de combat en zone urbaine.

The #OPTIO-X20 robot is armed with the ARX20 turret. This tracked robot can perform surveillance, protection, and… pic.twitter.com/bA8MinfrAh

— KNDS France (@KNDS_France) April 9, 2024

The UGV is armed with the Arx®20-type RCWS (Remote Controlled Weapon Station), featuring an open-architecture design. The UGV is specifically designed for perimeter observation, reconnaissance and target engagement. 

In addition to this, it should be mentioned that its mobility features have been developed and manufactured by Milrem Robotics, as it is mounted on a THeMIS chassis.

Also read: THeMIS | The definition of modularity by Milrem Robotics in DIMDEX 2022 | Photos and VIDEO

The ARX®20 features a 20 mm cannon and a 7.62 mm machine gun, both gyrostabilized, enabling it to fire against up to level 4 protected targets (such as Armored Vehicles). 

According to the company, based on Nexter’s know-how in the field of armament and robotics, the OPTIO®-X20 meets the operational requirements for surveillance, protection, security and combat missions, on open modern battlefields as well as in urban areas.

OPTIO®-X20’s technical characteristics:

• Length: 240 cm
• Width: 215 cm
• Height: 111 cm
• Weight: 1700 kg (with RCWS)
• Maximum payload (without RCWS): 750 kg
• Maximum speed: 22.5 km/h
• Maximum grade: 60%
• Maximum side slope: 30%
• Elevation range: +60° – 5°
• Traverse range: N X 360°
• Ground clearance: 40-60 cm
• Total Tractive Force: 1100 kg
• Endurance (hybrid): 8h to 10h
• Endurance (electric): 0.5h to 1.5h
• Power options: Battery Pack, Lead acid or LiOn / Diesel & electric engine

In terms of firepower, the system’s ARX®20 Remote Controlled Weapon Station integrates – as main armament – a 20M621 cannon with a firing rate of 750 rds/min and an effective range of 1600 m, while its secondary armament features a MAG 58 machine gun (optional) with a firing rate of 800 rds/min and an effective range of 800 m.

Regarding onboard ammunition capacity, the 20M621 cannon comes with 100 rds, while the Mag 58 machine gun carries 300 rds. Its gyrostabilized Sight system offers a Dual field Color Camera Day, an IR Dual lens Night Uncooled camera, and a Laser Range Finder.

Also read: KDNS Nexter | The tactical UGV PHOBOS