Iveco Defence Vehicles (IDV) supported the British Army’s 3rd (UK) Division during Armoured Expo 2026, where the formation conducted a live demonstration of combined-arms breaching operations integrating uncrewed and crewed systems. The event, held on Salisbury Plain training area, showcased the coordinated employment of unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs), unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), armoured platforms, and dismounted troops. The demonstration focused on how these assets can be synchronised to enable manoeuvre forces to penetrate defended positions under contested conditions. IDV deployed its VIKING UGV as part of the exercise, highlighting the platform’s modular design and interoperability within a networked force structure. During the scenario, VIKING systems were used in multiple support roles, including logistics resupply, casualty evacuation (CASEVAC), and intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition, and reconnaissance (ISTAR). The platform was observed operating in close coordination with armoured units, maintaining tempo and accompanying forces into the breach.
According to IDV, the VIKING is designed as a multirole UGV capable of carrying a range of mission payloads. The platform integrates a hybrid propulsion system combining a diesel engine with a high-voltage electric motor and battery pack, providing a high power-to-weight ratio and enabling operations across complex terrain. The system can operate for up to 20 km in electric-only mode and sustain more than 24 hours in silent watch, while offering a total operational range exceeding 200 km when combined with the diesel engine. Mobility is supported by a 6×6 all-wheel-drive configuration, differential locks, independent suspension, and high ground clearance, enabling stable off-road performance. The platform is reported to carry payloads of up to 750 kg, supporting mission kits such as remote weapon stations, ISTAR suites, CBRNE sensors, and logistics modules.
VIKING is equipped with IDV Robotics’ MACE (Mobility Autonomous Control Engine) system, which enables remote control, teleoperation, and autonomous navigation. The system uses a combination of passive and active sensors, supported by artificial intelligence, to conduct route planning, obstacle avoidance, and mission execution with reduced operator input. IDV stated that the platform’s modular payload bay allows rapid reconfiguration between roles, including last-mile resupply, surveillance, fire support, and CBRN detection, reflecting increasing demand for flexible uncrewed systems in modern land operations. The company, headquartered in Bolzano, Italy, manufactures a range of specialist logistics, protected, and armoured vehicles tailored to military requirements, and continues to expand its portfolio of robotic and autonomous systems for international defence customers.
