Digital transformation of armored vehicles: from idea to production
The American Rheinmetall company, a subsidiary of the German Rheinmetall concern, announced the development of the world's first fully digital modular combat vehicle. This project marks the transition from traditional design to a system based on digital counterparts and open architectures, which could dramatically change the face of future ground combat platforms.
The new concept aims to create not just a machine, but a flexible, scalable and constantly updated combat system.
Modular approach with Open Systems (MOSA)
The central element of the development was the principle of MOSA (Modular Open Systems Approach), a modular approach with open systems. It allows you to integrate various components — from fire control systems to armor and power plants — as "blocks" that can be quickly replaced, upgraded or adapted to a specific mission.
Thanks to the open interface, the platform is compatible with a wide range of weapons and electronics from different manufacturers, which increases flexibility and reduces dependence on a single supplier.
Virtual prototyping and accelerated development
The key innovation is the use of a complete digital model that covers the entire life cycle of the machine, from initial requirements to the assembly process. This model allows you to conduct virtual tests, optimize the design and identify potential problems long before creating a physical prototype.
"The digital model includes everything. It starts with the requirements and runs through the entire architecture of the vehicle, affecting all aspects, including the assembly process itself," said Ruben Burgos, Director of Programs at American Rheinmetall.
This approach reduces development time, reduces costs, and increases the reliability of the final product.
A platform ready for the evolution of decades
The company emphasizes that the goal is not a single model, but the creation of a long—term platform capable of developing over decades. Thanks to its digital base and modularity, the combat vehicle will be able to adapt to new threats, integrate advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence, autonomous systems and laser weapons.
This project can become the basis for future vehicles that the US Armed Forces and their allies will use in conditions of hybrid and high-tech conflicts.
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