Transforming Defense and Humanitarian Operations with Modular Autonomous Ground Systems

Introduction

Founded in 2021 in Munich, Germany, ARX Robotics has rapidly emerged as a significant player in the field of autonomous unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs). The company specializes in developing modular, scalable robotic platforms designed for both military and civilian applications. With a focus on enhancing operational efficiency and safety, ARX Robotics aims to bridge capability gaps in defense and humanitarian sectors through innovative technology solutions.

Company Background

ARX Robotics was co-founded by Marc Wietfeld, an active-duty officer in the German Army, and Stefan Röbel, a former army officer turned tech executive. The company originated as a spin-off from the GEREON research project at the German Armed Forces University in Munich. Drawing from their military experience, the founders recognized the need for adaptable and cost-effective robotic systems to support soldiers and first responders in life-threatening situations. The company’s mission is to strengthen Europe’s technological resilience and sovereignty by leading innovation in mobile robotics.

Funding and Growth

In September 2023, ARX Robotics secured €1.15 million in a pre-seed funding round led by Project A Ventures. This initial investment facilitated the development of autonomous robotic platforms tailored for hazardous environments. Subsequently, in June 2024, the company raised an additional €9 million in seed funding, marking the largest seed round for a European defense tech company to date. The NATO Innovation Fund led this round, with participation from Project A Ventures and Discovery Ventures. In April 2025, ARX closed a €31 million Series A funding round led by HV Capital, with contributions from Omnes Capital and existing investors. The funds are earmarked for expanding production capacity, enhancing Mithra OS, and deepening market penetration across Europe. The funds have been instrumental in expanding the team and scaling production capabilities across Europe.

Product Portfolio: GEREON Series

At the core of ARX Robotics’ offerings is the GEREON series of modular UGVs. These platforms are designed to be adaptable for various defense scenarios, including reconnaissance, surveillance, transportation, medical evacuation (MedEvac), and training simulations. The modularity allows for on-site configuration with different sensors and payloads, enabling rapid adaptation to mission-specific requirements without the need for complete reengineering.

• GEREON 2: An ultralight, single-to-multi-use platform suitable for autonomous patrol, sensor deployment, and drone carriage for extended aerial operations.
• GEREON 3: A robust, all-in-one solution designed for advanced autonomous patrol, light cargo tasks, and mobile data relay functions.
• GEREON RCS: A medium autonomous transportation platform capable of carrying up to 500 kg payloads. It serves multiple roles, including sensor deployment, logistical support, and MedEvac operations.
• GEREON ATR: A robust platform deployed in Switzerland, designed to withstand weapon fire and operate in challenging environments.

Technological Innovations

In December 2024, ARX Robotics launched ARX Mithra OS, the first independent AI-based operating system designed to transform existing military vehicles into intelligent, interconnected, and autonomous units. This retrofit solution enables armed forces to digitize their vehicle fleets, allowing for seamless integration across different vehicle types and enhancing operational capabilities through manned-unmanned teaming.

Mithra OS is ARX Robotics’ proprietary operating system that enables the digital transformation of existing vehicle fleets. It integrates AI, sensor systems, and autonomous driving capabilities, allowing for the modernization of up to 50,000 NATO vehicles. The system supports multi-connectivity, including Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, 4G/5G, and satellite communications, ensuring seamless interoperability across different platforms.

Collaborations and Deployments

ARX Robotics has established partnerships to enhance its technological offerings. Notably, the company collaborated with Elistair, a leader in tethered drone systems, to develop an integrated Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) solution. This system combines Elistair’s KHRONOS DroneBox with ARX Robotics’ GEREON RCS UGV, providing continuous, mobile surveillance capabilities. The integrated solution was successfully tested during a three-week experimentation series conducted by the German Army’s Concepts and Capabilities Development Centre.

ARX Robotics’ GEREON platforms have been tested and deployed by several European armed forces, including those of Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Hungary, and Ukraine. In Ukraine, the company achieved the largest deployment of Western-designed UGVs, underscoring its commitment to supporting allied nations with mission-critical robotic solutions.

Commercial and Humanitarian Applications

Beyond military applications, ARX Robotics’ modular platforms are designed for commercial and humanitarian use cases. The GEREON series can be employed in disaster relief operations, infrastructure surveillance, and transportation support in challenging terrains. Their autonomous capabilities enhance workforce safety and efficiency, making them valuable assets in various sectors.

Production Expansion

In July 2025, ARX Robotics inaugurated Europe’s largest production facility for autonomous military robotic systems in the Munich metropolitan region. This milestone marked the company’s transition into the scale-up phase, enabling large-scale manufacturing of UGVs for military applications. The facility’s opening was attended by members of the German Bundestag, highlighting the strategic importance of autonomous military systems in strengthening European defense capabilities.

Conclusion

ARX Robotics stands at the forefront of developing modular, autonomous ground systems that address the evolving needs of defense and humanitarian operations. Through continuous innovation, strategic partnerships, and a commitment to scalability, the company is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of autonomous robotics in Europe and beyond.