Sweden has placed an order for Textron Systems’ RIPSAW M3 robotic ground vehicle, becoming the first European customer for the platform. Textron Systems and its subsidiary Howe & Howe announced the sale as part of the company’s continued expansion of its uncrewed systems portfolio for land, air and maritime operations.
The RIPSAW M3 is the latest member of the RIPSAW family of robotic vehicles and is designed around a Modular Open System Approach (MOSA), enabling rapid integration of autonomy suites, controllers and a wide range of mission payloads. Derived from the larger M5 variant, the M3 incorporates lessons learned from soldier trials and packages them into a smaller but still mission-capable platform.
According to Textron Systems, the M3 delivers high mobility and mission flexibility through a hybrid-electric powertrain, a novel suspension system and a composite rubber track setup. The vehicle is capable of operating in challenging terrain and severe climates, offering more than 180 miles of range and providing over 19 hours of silent watch. Its open deck area and 10 kW of offload power allow the integration of lethality, reconnaissance, combat engineering and logistics payloads.
“We believe the RIPSAW M3 is well-suited for operations in the region due to its strong performance in demanding environments,” said Sara Willett, Vice President of Programs at Textron Systems. “We are proud to support European partners and continue investing in reliable robotic platforms that enhance user safety and mission effectiveness.”
The platform has undergone more than 2,500 miles of durability testing prior to delivery. It maintains a compact width of 80 inches to ensure internal transportability aboard CH-47 helicopters and supports a payload capacity of 5,000 pounds.
Textron Systems states that the M3 builds on over three million operational hours across its uncrewed systems portfolio, reflecting decades of development experience in robotics and autonomy. The order marks a notable step in Sweden’s efforts to expand its ground robotics capabilities as European militaries increasingly evaluate unmanned platforms for transport, reconnaissance and combat support missions.
