In March 2021, the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) sought commercial solutions that would enable soldiers to operate multiple types of air and ground-based unmanned systems using an integrated, tactical, handheld controller. The principal objective of the Soldier Robotic Controller (SRoC) program is to develop solutions for small Unmanned Aerial Systems (sUAS) and Unmanned Ground Vehicles (UGVs) that will reduce operator workload, while demonstrating the feasibility of seamless integration with currently fielded equipment. 

Auterion Government Solutions was chosen for the SRoC program based on an existing commercial handheld controller called Skynav. Designed with flexibility and the ability to scale in mind, Skynav is interoperable and can control any type of sUAS: quad, multi-rotor, VTOL, and fixed wing, all from the same unit. Under the SRoC Program, Auterion Government Solutions will extend the capabilities and further develop Skynav to accept both external radio integration and embedded radio integration options via an interchangeable module. This solution enables air/ground interoperability through the ability to communicate via multiple open protocols, allows direct integration with Tactical Assault Kit and Nett Warrior, and facilitates soldier wearable solutions that integrate into an overall soldier ecosystem. Furthermore, the SRoC Controller provides the ability to easily swap radio modules in the field by an operator based on mission needs and demands.  

“We are very pleased to have the opportunity to work with DIU and Department of Defense (DoD) stakeholders on the SRoC program” said David Sharpin, CEO of Auterion Government Solutions.  “The ability to control and extract data from multiple types of air and ground systems using a flexible and scalable hardware platform coupled with a standard, government sponsored software platform is a critical element for current and future autonomous system development and deployment.”