The ULTRA autonomous tactical vehicle, integrates and deploys multiple modular payloads, including UAS for reconnaissance and breaching operations. | Credit: Overland AI
Overland AI today announced the launch of its ULTRA uncrewed tactical platform. The Seattle-based company said ULTRA is a new generation of ground system, designed to be fully autonomous and easy configurable for different missions.
At the heart of the system is Overland AI’s proprietary OverDrive software stack, its SPARK hardware infrastructure, and modular payloads that include uncrewed aerial systems (UAS) and counter-UAS systems.
“ULTRA can navigate environments ranging from dense forests to volcanic ridges,” said Byron Boots, co-founder and CEO of Overland AI. “This empowers the warfighter to win in crucial contested theaters like the Indo-Pacific while keeping them out of harm’s way.”
Overland AI designs for multiple missions
ULTRA features a 1,000-lb. (453.5 kg) payload capacity and a top speed of 35 mph (56.3 kph), with a cruising range extending to 100 miles, said the company, which was founded in 2022. Its off-road autonomy software, developed through extensive and rigorous testing in the DARPA RACER program, enables uncrewed platform movement in GPS-denied environments across brutal terrain and conditions.
What sets ULTRA apart is its versatility across critical ground operations, including integrated reconnaissance operations, direct support of maneuver forces, and counter-UAS protection. Overland AI said its missions can also include resupply for humanitarian aid, including food and water, and contested logistics missions.
The system’s networked capabilities enable seamless communication with warfighters and command nodes through local mesh networks, 5G, and satellite uplinks.
“ULTRA gives commanders an immediately deployable solution for reconnaissance, counter-UAS, and logistics operations,” added Greg Okopal, co-founder and chief operating officer of Overland AI. “The vehicle is backed by resilient, networked communications that extend reach and reduce risk.”
The ULTRA autonomous vehicle can map its surroundings in real time, while driving offroad in new territory. | Credit: Overland AI
ULTRA part of ongoing contracts
The ULTRA system builds on Overland AI’s established relationship with the U.S. armed forces, following the Overland AI’s $18.6 million contract with the U.S. Army and Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) for the Robotic Combat Vehicle (RCV) program. The company continues to support programs across the Army, Marine Corps, and Special Operations Command.
The vehicle is fitted with a modular, adaptable deck with L-track mounting, vertical hitch receivers, shackles, and side rails as mount points for mission-specific payloads. It has a gross vehicle weight of 3,500 lb. (1,587 kg), a payload capacity of 1,000 lb. (454 kg), and a top speed of 35 mph (56 kph).
In addition, the vehicle is gas-powered with a 114 HP engine and offers 1KW of electrical power for onboard payloads.
At the heart of the autonomy for the platform is OverDrive, a proprietary ground vehicle autonomy stack, that is purpose-built for complex, natural, and contested environments. Mission commanders can use the OverWatch software, which empowers unit operators with advanced mission planning.
The company claimed that its platform “enables intuitive, one-to-many control of vehicles powered by OverDrive with unmatched efficiency and precision.”
To learn more about the future of field robotics, be sure to attend the upcoming Field Robotics Forum at RoboBusiness on Oct. 15 and 16, 2025 in Santa Clara, Calif.
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