Textron Launched CoreMotion Robotic Control Kit
The package converts legacy and future ground vehicles into optionally crewed platforms, supporting ongoing US Army modernization efforts.
Updated on Oct. 12, 2026 in Robotics
Live Poll
Should the military prioritize retrofitting existing vehicles with autonomous technology over purchasing new platforms?
Textron has launched CoreMotion, a robotic control package designed to retrofit ground vehicles with drive-by-wire capabilities. The system acts as a middle-layer controller that enables platforms to operate in optionally crewed or uncrewed modes.
Why it matters
The kit directly supports the US Army’s strategic initiative to integrate remote-control and autonomous capabilities across its existing vehicle fleet. This move allows the military to modernize legacy hardware without replacing entire chassis systems.
The CoreMotion system functions as a middleware controller, translating commands from human operators or autonomy software into specific hardware actions. The kit includes the necessary computers, actuators, wiring, and brackets to manage steering, braking, and power distribution.
The players
Textron
A defense and industrial conglomerate known for manufacturing the Ripsaw series of unmanned ground vehicles and broader military aviation and land systems.
US Army
The branch of the United States Armed Forces currently prioritizing the acquisition of drive-by-wire systems to modernize its armored and support vehicle fleet.
The details
CoreMotion serves as the bridge between high-level mission intent and physical vehicle execution. The system connects vehicle subsystems, autonomous navigation software, and mission payloads to ensure predictable motion. By acting as a middle-layer vehicle-control and execution system, it translates abstract commands into precise adjustments of a vehicle's mechanical hardware.
Timeline
Textron revealed the CoreMotion robotic control package on October 12, 2026.
The Tech Race
The introduction of CoreMotion moves the US Army's drive-by-wire modernization initiative toward a scalable procurement phase. By modularizing control systems, Textron is competing to establish the standard architecture for the next generation of uncrewed military land platforms.
This technology is currently being marketed to military procurement offices and is not available for civilian or private use. The kit will first appear in existing US Army vehicle fleets as they undergo maintenance and conversion to optionally crewed configurations.
The takeaway
CoreMotion demonstrates a shift toward retrofitting modular intelligence into heavy hardware rather than building new vehicles from the ground up. Watch for upcoming US Army contract announcements that specify which legacy ground vehicle platforms will be the first to receive this integration kit.
Further reading
For more on the evolution of automated ground platforms, visit the Robotics section.
Live Poll
Should the military prioritize retrofitting existing vehicles with autonomous technology over purchasing new platforms?
