AeroVironment, a leading technology company in developing intelligent and multi-domain autonomous systems, launched TOM 50 RE at Eurosatory 2026, which is one of the largest international defense and security exhibitions worldwide. It is developed by its subsidiary company, Telerob, as a miniature and back-packable uncrewed ground vehicle (UGV).
It can provide a wide range of uses, such as handling high-risk missions in remote explosive ordnance disposal (EOD), close combat reconnaissance, public safety work, and hazardous mobile investigations. As a highly portable UGV, it will help tactical units like dismounted forces, bomb-disposal units, or even SWAT teams scout through dangerous passageways and eliminate explosives.
High-Endurance Capability in Complex and Confined Environment
This compact robot has a weight that is below 10 kg (22 lbs), making it portable and easy for the user to carry and transport in the field, making logistical issues unnecessary. In spite of being very lightweight and portable, the UGV demonstrates good mobility capabilities, as follows:
Stair Climbing: It possesses a high tread tracked drive system with a specifically designed flipper to enable stair climbing capability of 45 degrees while removing any kind of debris and moving through restricted areas.
Payload-to-Weight Ratio: Operates autonomously for five continuous hours after charging, carrying up to 5 kg (11 lbs) mission payloads while maintaining the same basic performance in terms of speed and stair-climbing ability.
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Autonomous SLAM Mapping and Secure IP-Mesh Communications
To excel during high-stress indoor breaches and subterranean operations, the TOM 50 RE integrates an advanced, onboard Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (SLAM) engine. Such intelligent software enables the UGV to create precise maps of previously unknown layouts on its own without any difficulty even when working at great depths in concrete multi-story structures or places where GPS signals cannot be received. It allows field staff members to mark, label, and annotate various hazards or interests on the digital map, which helps to export architectural telemetry after the mission has been completed to enhance intelligence analysis.
The system provides continuous full spectrum situational awareness through four high-definition cameras featuring wide angle and infrared night vision, creating 360 degrees unbroken video feed even in areas where there is no light whatsoever. The optic feed is supported by a high bandwidth IP mesh radio network. The advanced network design enables the TOM 50 RE to act as an active, mobile communications repeater, systematically expanding the signal reach and connectivity footprint for distributed human teams operating inside heavily shielded underground structures or complex urban blockades.
“The introduction of TOM 50 RE reflects AV’s commitment to delivering robotic systems that directly address the realities of modern ground combat and explosive threat environments,” said Wahid Nawabi, Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer of AV. “Today’s operators need systems that move with them, adapt to multiple missions, and provide immediate intelligence while reducing risk to human life. TOM 50 RE delivers that capability in a highly portable form factor built for the tactical edge.”
Modular Architecture and Multi-Domain Control
Built to adapt to rapidly evolving field requirements, the UGV incorporates an open, modular payload platform. Utilizing either a native Mission Module Interface (MMI) or a specialized adapter plate supporting Telerob’s standardized Universal Component Interface (UCI), field operators can hot-swap operational gear in seconds. This allows for the immediate integration of third-party payloads, including advanced dual-sensor optical packages, mechanical manipulators, drop-charge dispensers, and high-energy EOD disruptor systems.
The ground robot is fully integrated into AeroVironment’s overarching software ecosystem. Operators can command the system using the unified AV_Halo™ COMMAND interface running on the Tomahawk Grip family of controllers or opt for the field-proven Robo Command Control System, ensuring seamless interoperability alongside existing uncrewed aerial vehicles (UAVs) across the collaborative battlefield.
“TOM 50 RE was designed to deliver immediate robotic capability at the point of need, where operators face the greatest uncertainty and risk,” said Florian Gruener, Managing Director of Telerob and Product Line General Manager for Uncrewed Ground Vehicles. “Its ability to rapidly conduct these missions in complex terrain allows forces to gain critical situational awareness, mitigate threats, and make faster, more informed decisions—while keeping personnel out of harm’s way.”