An Analysis of the First Fifteen Years of the Department of Defense Framework for Unmanned Ground Systems

Abstract

The Unmanned Ground Vehicle (UGV) program traces its roots back to Desert Shield and Desert Storm. At that time, warfighters observed the use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles and recognized the potential for their ground use. Literature supporting this research focuses on UGV history, the Sigmoid Curve, associated push and pull factors, and the Department of Defense (DOD) Acquisition Strategy. DOD UGV master plans, which are used to conduct comparative analyses of programs, changes, and trends from year to year, examine the cost, schedule, and performance of all programs from 1991 to 2004. This research focuses on experienced schedule overruns, slippage, and the examination of characteristics leading to system success. This research also explains the relationship between push and pull factors and further outlines the evolution of UGV program requirements based on global conflicts and various mission types. This research clearly indicates that UGVs are created for force protection more than any other warfighting function.