Endeavor Robotics to team with Howe and Howe to pursue RCV

Endeavor Robotics has signed a teaming agreement to work with Howe and Howe Technologies to pursue the Army's Robotic Combat Vehicle program, the companies have confirmed.

Endeavor said it would serve as the prime on the program, while Howe and Howe will provide its Ripsaw vehicle as a platform.

Geoff Howe, Howe and Howe's chief executive, told Inside Defense the Army appears to be beginning to "develop the new future style of robotic combat vehicle."

"It's exciting news for us because we really have the platforms," he said.

Mike Howe, the company's president, noted Howe and Howe years ago built the Ripsaw, a high-speed, lightweight tank. However, "the Army didn't need it when we invented it," he said.

"The Army's finally requesting what we built on day one," Mike Howe said.

Sean Bielat, Endeavor's chief executive, told Inside Defense the company saw the Ripsaw as a good platform because of its capabilities and price point.

"It's an ideal solution combined with our expertise in autonomous systems and robotic systems integration," he said.

Bielat said Endeavor has met with some Army officials to inform them of the teaming agreement.

Textron announced yesterday it plans to acquire Howe and Howe.