The NREC-led Team Excalibur was awarded the Phase I contract in June 2002 during which it completed preliminary design and analysis of a highly mobile vehicle suitable for a variety of expeditionary missions conducted by the Marines.

In the 14-month Phase II program, NREC researchers will continue to lead Team Excalibur and will complete the design of the vehicle, assemble a prototype and conduct operational demonstrations early in 2004. Initial fielding of TUGV is expected in 2006.

The TUGV is planned to be a robust, easy-to-transport, unmanned, semi-autonomous, multi-purpose ground vehicle system possessing a scouting and direct engagement capability. It will provide the Marines with remote reconnaissance, surveillance and target acquisition (RSTA); nuclear, biological and chemical (NBC) reconnaissance; obstacle breaching; and direct fire capability to neutralize threats and reduce risk to the war fighter.