Multifunctional Utility/Logistics and Equipment vehicle

   the Multifunction Utility/ Logistics and Equipment vehicle (MULE), which is  known as The Multi-Mission Unmanned Ground Vehicle, was an autonomous unmanned ground combat vehicle which was developed by BCT Modernization programs  and Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control for the United States Army`s Future Combat Systems. The last component of the program was canceled in July 2011.

   The multi functional utility/logistics and equipment vehicle (UGV) which was developed to support dismounted and air assault operations. The MULE was sling-loadable under military rotorcraft and it is featured a common chassis. The CMP (Common Mobility Platform)  chassis could provide mobility that is built around articulated suspension system  and an advanced propulsion  according  to the program`s centerpiece. This system gave the MULE the ability to negotiate obstacles, complex terrain, and gaps that a dismounted squad would encounter.

   The MULE`s highly advanced, unique  6 by 6 separated  independent articulated suspension which is  powering each wheel by using coupled  in-hub motors, which can provide extreme mobility in complex terrains,  exceeding that of vehicles utilizing much more conventional suspension systems. It is able to climb at least greater than 40 percent side slopes of  1-meter step traverse, has the ability to overpass obstacles as high as 0.5 meters  and ford water to depths over 0.5 meters, while compensating for center of gravity locations and varying  payload weights.

  Variants

XM1217 Transport

    

   The XM1217 was canceled in December 2009 along with the XM1218. It would have been able to haul 1,900 to 2,400 pounds of equipment.

 

XM1218 Countermine

    

      The Countermine MULE Vehicle (MULE-CM)(XM1218) would provide the capability to detect, then mark and neutralize anti-tank mines. The vehicle is to be consist of an integrated mine detection equipment package from the GSTAMIDS (Ground Standoff Mine etection System). In December 2009 the XM1218 was canceled.

XM1219 ARV-Assault-Light

    

  The ARV-A-L MULE Vehicle (ARV-A-L)(XM1219) would have featured and integrated weapons and surveillance, reconnaissance, and target acquisition (RSTA) package in order to support the dismounted infantry`s efforts to locate and destroy enemy positions  and platforms. The ARV-A-L would have supported both anti-personal weapons  and anti-tank  platforms that would be remotely operated by network linked soldiers. In July 2010 this variant was canceled.