In an exciting development for the defense and technology sectors, Scout AI Inc. has partnered with Hendrick Motorsports Technical Solutions (HMS) to unveil NOMAD, a next-generation unmanned ground vehicle (UGV) powered by Scout’s innovative Fury autonomy system. Announced in September 2025, this collaboration signifies a significant step forward in the design and functionality of robotic systems intended for complex tactical operations.

NOMAD showcases the latest advancements in Scout’s Fury system, now equipped with its fastest foundational model tailored specifically for compact robotic platforms. These enhancements promote agility and speed, enabling NOMAD’s deployment in various challenging mission environments. Combining cutting-edge technology with practical applications, NOMAD is designed to operate autonomously even beyond line-of-sight, thereby enhancing its operational effectiveness.

One of the standout features of NOMAD is its second-generation Fury hardware stack, touted for being more than 90% smaller and significantly more energy-efficient than its predecessors. This compactness does not compromise performance, as NOMAD maintains low-signature capabilities and passive-sensing technologies, which are crucial in tactical scenarios requiring stealth and discretion.

The partnership highlights the shared vision of both companies to expand the horizons of autonomous systems beyond traditional applications. Colby Adcock, Co-Founder and CEO of Scout AI, emphasized the versatility of the Fury system, stating, “We’re just beginning to unlock its potential across ground, air, sea, and space domains.” This adaptability demonstrates a forward-thinking approach to military operations, potentially transforming how missions are executed in diverse terrains.

Building upon a foundation of camera-only autonomy, NOMAD integrates Vision-Language-Action (VLA) reasoning. This sophisticated capability is particularly noteworthy as it eliminates the need for expensive and often fragile sensor equipment. Instead, Fury exclusively employs learned models, allowing NOMAD to mimic human judgment in real-time scenarios, which is paramount in rapidly changing and unpredictable environments.

The implications of NOMAD extend beyond mere technical advancements; they address real-world military needs. Rhegan Flanagan, Director of Government Programs at HMS, highlighted this partnership’s commitment to enhancing the capabilities of servicemembers. Flanagan stated, “Partnering with Scout AI allows us to combine world-class vehicle engineering with cutting-edge autonomy to deliver NOMAD—a commercial platform designed to give our servicemembers greater capability, protection, and confidence on the battlefield.” This focus on improving the safety and operational effectiveness of personnel demonstrates a significant commitment to innovation within military logistics.

As technology continues to evolve, the intersection of advanced artificial intelligence and military applications is increasingly paramount. Scout AI’s collaboration with Hendrick Motorsports aims not only at perfecting UGV performance but also at ensuring mission safety and success. As NOMAD becomes operational, its ability to follow a human operator from a safe distance while integrating various payloads for light tactical missions may revolutionize logistical support in defense operations.

In conclusion, the launch of NOMAD represents a promising development for the future of unmanned systems in military contexts. By harnessing the advancements in AI and autonomy through the Fury system, Scout AI and Hendrick Motorsports are set to redefine the capabilities of unmanned ground vehicles. This forward-looking initiative embodies the potential of technology to enhance the effectiveness and safety of military operations, proving essential for future missions in evolving landscapes.