Exail air and land robots shine during French Army CoHoMa Challenge

Organized by Battle Lab Terre with the support of the French Defense Innovation Agency, the CoHoMa Challenge II brought together 15 top-tier teams to showcase their capabilities in using advanced robotic systems in operational warfare conditions. After a highly competitive battle, Exail, alongside its partners ISL (French-German Research Institute of Saint-Louis), FN Herstal, and Soframe, achieved a remarkable second-place finish, surpassing most of established defense industry leaders.

Empowering human-machine collaboration

The primary objective of the CoHoMa Challenge II is to evaluate the level of collaboration between humans and machines in an operational use case. By executing dedicated tactical scenarios centered around the theme of ”Seizing an enemy position”, participants were required to demonstrate their drones capabilities in a range of tasks, including reconnaissance missions, security patrols, Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD), and combat missions. Teams were tasked with utilizing a combination of aerial drones, ground robots, mission systems, and advanced communication systems to overcome the challenge.

Demonstrating seamless robotics systems integration

Exail, a prominent player in the field, showcased its expertise by effectively deploying a suite of cutting-edge robotic and mission systems. The team seamlessly integrated its Iguana multi-mission Unmanned Ground Vehicle (UGV), two of its IT180-60 aerial drones, and ISL Aurochs ground robot equipped with a teleoperated turret from FN Herstal. This combination of robotic systems was controlled using Exail’s advanced mission system, enabling seamless collaboration between human operators and autonomous machines.

Facing the challenge with precision and minimal resources

With only four robots at their disposal, the Exail team navigated the complex and dynamic environments of the CoHoMa Challenge II with precision and using a minimal number of drones and robots. Their strategic decision-making and swift adaptability allowed them to effectively complete the designated scenario, positioning them as serious contenders for the top spots. Exail’s mission system played a crucial role in its success, empowering the team to accurately identify enemy threats and rapidly gain a comprehensive understanding of the tactical situation. This real-time situational awareness facilitated seamless coordination between human operators and autonomous machines, resulting in a highly synchronized and effective response.

Securing second place and beyond

Exail team’s exceptional performance in the CoHoMa Challenge II led them to an impressive second-place finish. Surpassing internationally renowned defense industry leaders was a testament to their dedication, innovation, and expertise in the field of aero-terrestrial robotics. Notably, their accomplishment was further recognized with the Ubiquity Award, highlighting their ability to overcome challenges through adaptability and comprehensive mission execution.

Fostering collaborative breakthroughs

Exail’s participation in the CoHoMa Challenge II alongside ISL, FN Herstal, and Soframe underscores the company’s commitment to fostering collaborative breakthroughs. By leveraging their collective expertise in robotics, aero terrestrial systems, and weapons technology, these three major players showcased their ability to tackle complex challenges and shape the future of defense. CoHoMa II aligns with the French Army’s ambitious Vulcain project, aiming to envision the integration of robots and artificial intelligence on the battlefield by 2040.

”Exail’s outstanding performance and second-place finish solidified our position as a formidable force in the field” stated Lionel Rosellini, Director of the Land and Air robotics division at Exail. “Through our strategic implementation and innovative mission system, we exemplified the possibilities of human-robot collaboration. As we look forward to future editions of the CoHoMa Challenge, we are confident that we will, along with our partners, continue to lead the way in advancing the frontier of aero-terrestrial robotics”.