Armored Assault Vehicle Crew Members

Armored assault vehicles (like tanks) today are almost always driven and operated by people. There are few fully autonomous combat vehicles in service – most modern tanks still rely on trained human crews for driving, targeting, and tactical decisions. That said, militaries are actively researching ways to use AI to help those crews.

For example, a recent U.S. Army program is investigating “AI assistants” in next-generation combat vehicles to handle sensor data and reduce crew overload ^[1]. In other words, new designs may include smart helpers (voice-activated tools, automated target recognition, crew-status monitors) so soldiers don’t have to do everything manually. The Army’s plans even mention “crew reduction enablers” ^[1], indicating a future where some tasks are automated.

Alongside these efforts, some unmanned ground vehicles and remote-controlled systems are used (often for supply or scouting), but they are specialized and not yet common. In short, AI and automation are just starting to augment armored vehicle crews – tools are in development to assist crews, but full “robot tanks” are not fielded today ^{[1] [1]}.

Introducing AI into armored vehicles will likely be gradual. One reason is cost and complexity: adding advanced autonomy usually means designing new vehicles from the ground up. In fact, the Army has said it will pursue all-new combat vehicle designs instead of retrofitting old ones ^[1].

They have even issued requests for industry help and information on AI tech for future crew stations ^[1]. This shows adoption is at an early, experimental stage. Some reports suggest only a few AI-driven capabilities might be fielded in the next few years ^[1].