Nexter-KNDS unveils new CENTURIO robotic system at Canjuers camp.

On March 26, 2024, Nexter revealed test footage of the CENTURIO robotic system conducted at Canjuers. Within the framework of the 2024-30 Military Programming Law (LPM), which foresees a 5 billion euro investment in military robotics, Nexter Systems (or KNDS France) is expanding its offerings in this area. Until now, its range has included the Nerva mini-robots, the Ultro 600 robotic mule, and the Optio armed robot, developed from the Estonian company Milrem Robotics' THeMIS platform.
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The CENTURIO robotic system from Nexter, a KNDS company, showcased its high mobility on the challenging terrain of the Canjuers camp (Picture source: NEXTER-KNDS )

In April 2023, Nexter took a significant step by partnering with SERA Engineering, a subsidiary of the SOGECLAIR group, to establish what has been described as the "French champion of military robotics." The goal of this partnership was to develop a "versatile robotic carrier weighing less than two tons when empty," based on the PHOBOS robotic platform, with a focus on modularity, autonomy, and mobility.

One year after this announcement, Nexter revealed test footage of the CENTURIO robotic system conducted at Canjuers. The trials highlighted the system's high mobility on challenging terrain, as well as its remarkable capabilities for crossing and rapid towing over long distances. However, the company did not disclose further details about these tests.

At the time of announcing its partnership with SERA Engineering, Nexter specified that the project aimed at developing a "robotic carrier" primarily for Engineering units, capable of carrying out dangerous missions such as demining while ensuring the safety of its operators. This robot promises to combine mobility, ergonomics, and a small logistical footprint.

For its part, SERA Engineering had different ambitions for PHOBOS, unveiled at the EuroSatory defense expo in June 2022. A version equipped with a rocket-launching system produced by Thales was notably highlighted.

The CENTURIO incorporates a "mobility autonomy kit" developed by Nexter, which combines assisted teleoperation with autonomous capabilities suitable for hostile environments. This system aims to optimize Human-Robot interaction, adjusting in real-time the contribution of each party according to the tactical situation.

Defense News April 2024