China Advances Sharp Claw VU-T2 Tracked UGV Toward Future Ground Combat at UMEX 2026.

China North Industries Group Corporation, known as NORINCO, unveiled its Sharp Claw VU-T2 tracked unmanned ground vehicle at UMEX 2026, positioning it as a light, multi-role system for land forces. The platform reflects China’s continued push to integrate unmanned systems into frontline and support operations alongside manned units.

Displayed publicly at UMEX 2026, the Sharp Claw VU-T2 emerged as one of NORINCO’s latest tracked unmanned ground vehicles, highlighting Beijing’s growing emphasis on land robotics. The system is presented as a compact, multi-functional unmanned combat vehicle designed to conduct combat support, reconnaissance, and direct engagement tasks while operating under remote control or in coordination with crewed platforms, according to materials released at the exhibition.
Follow Army Recognition on Google News at this link

The Sharp Claw VU-T2 was displayed at UMEX 2026, fitted with a 12.7 mm fire strike module and a BA-5 missile launcher (Picture source: Army Recognition)

The Sharp Claw VU-T2 is designed to conduct close-in reconnaissance, covert surveillance, emergency assault operations, search and suppression missions, and guard duties. In addition to these roles, the platform is intended to support communication relay tasks, material transport, and counter-terrorism operations. Its design reflects an emphasis on manned-unmanned teaming, with the unmanned vehicle deployed forward to extend situational awareness and reduce exposure of personnel in high-risk environments.

The configuration displayed at UMEX 2026 highlights the vehicle’s combat role. The Sharp Claw VU-T2 on display is fitted with a 12.7 mm machine gun module as well as a BA-5 missile launcher. This armament package enables the vehicle to engage infantry targets, light vehicles, and other battlefield threats while remaining within the size and weight limits of a compact tracked unmanned system. The combination of direct-fire and missile capabilities positions the platform as a mobile fire support asset at the tactical level.

Situational awareness and navigation are supported by a multi-sensor perception architecture. The Sharp Claw VU-T2 integrates sensors such as LIDAR, electro-optical cameras, and radar, combined with inertial navigation systems and digital maps. This sensor fusion is intended to support autonomous or semi-autonomous navigation over extended distances, while allowing the vehicle to detect and identify static or moving targets in its forward sector.

From a technical perspective, the vehicle has a stated combat weight of approximately 2.1 tonnes and is operated by a two-person crew using either portable or modular control terminals. The platform uses an electric or hybrid drive system and measures around 2.6 meters in length, 1.8 meters in width, and 2.0 meters in height. Mobility data indicate a maximum road speed of 40 km/h and an average off-road speed of about 20 km/h. Endurance in electric mode is given as more than 100 kilometers or over 20 hours when operating at road speeds between 15 and 20 km/h.

Command and control are conducted remotely. The control range reaches up to 1.5 kilometers when using a portable control terminal and extends to approximately 3 kilometers when a modular control station is employed. The primary mission payload highlighted for the platform remains the 12.7 mm fire strike module, complemented by the BA-5 missile launcher in the configuration displayed at the exhibition.

The Sharp Claw VU-T2 is developed by NORINCO, a major Chinese state-owned defense manufacturer with extensive experience in armored vehicles, artillery systems, and land combat equipment. Its presentation at UMEX 2026 illustrates the continued expansion of Chinese unmanned ground vehicle offerings. As armed and multi-role UGVs become more widely adopted and exported, systems such as the Sharp Claw VU-T2 contribute to the broader proliferation of unmanned land combat platforms on the international defense market.

Written By Erwan Halna du Fretay - Defense Analyst, Army Recognition Group

Erwan Halna du Fretay is a graduate of a Master’s degree in International Relations and has experience in the study of conflicts and global arms transfers. His research interests lie in security and strategic studies, particularly the dynamics of the defense industry, the evolution of military technologies, and the strategic transformation of armed forces.