Overland AI has unveiled a next-generation autonomous ground system designed to support U.S. forces across contested environments.
The company’s newly launched vehicle, known as ULTRA, was announced today as a fully autonomous platform engineered for tactical ground operations.
According to Overland AI, ULTRA integrates its proprietary OverDrive software stack and SPARK hardware infrastructure with modular payloads, enabling the vehicle to perform a wide range of missions—from reconnaissance to counter-uncrewed aerial systems (UAS) protection and logistics support.
“ULTRA can navigate environments ranging from dense forests to volcanic ridges,” said Byron Boots, co-founder and CEO of Overland AI. “This empowers the warfighter to win in crucial contested theaters like the Indo-Pacific while keeping them out of harm’s way.”
The vehicle features a 1,000-pound payload capacity, a top speed of 35 miles per hour, and a 100-mile operational range. Critically, its autonomous capabilities are designed to operate in GPS-denied environments, reflecting development and stress testing under the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency’s (DARPA) RACER program.
Overland AI says ULTRA supports a broad range of ground operations, including contested logistics, direct maneuver support, and humanitarian resupply. The vehicle’s networked communications integrate mesh networking, 5G, and satellite uplinks, providing real-time coordination between deployed warfighters and command centers.
“ULTRA gives commanders an immediately deployable solution for reconnaissance, counter-UAS, and logistics operations,” said Greg Okopal, Overland AI’s co-founder and COO. “The vehicle is backed by resilient, networked communications that extend reach and reduce risk.”
The platform builds on Overland AI’s $18.6 million contract with the U.S. Army and the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) under the Robotic Combat Vehicle program.
The company says it continues to collaborate with the Army, Marine Corps, and U.S. Special Operations Command on autonomous ground solutions.