Indian Army Major unveils Indigenous multi-utility UGV ‘SapperScout Ver 2.0’ that helps in mine detection, surveillance & casualty rescue

India has moved another step forward in defence robotics with the launch of SapperScout Ver 2.0, a fully home-grown unmanned ground vehicle. 

The system was built by Major Rajprasad RS of the 7 Engineer Regiment and shown at Innoyodha 2025. It is designed to work in deserts, mountains, and rough ground, and it can switch between many roles without changing the base platform.

India Showcases Breakthrough in Battlefield Robotics

SapperScout Ver 2.0 is built to handle several frontline tasks using one common platform. It uses a 6-wheel drive system and an articulated suspension, giving it strong grip and smooth movement across rough terrain. This allows the UGV to move safely in areas where regular vehicles struggle.

The machine can carry up to 900 kg, making it useful for supply runs, casualty rescue, or weapon mounts. It also uses LiDAR, ultrasonic sensors, and simple AI-based control systems to move safely, avoid obstacles, and follow planned routes. The operator can control it both within line of sight and from farther distances.

This is the 12th invention by Major Rajprasad, with four already accepted by the Indian Army. His work fits well with India’s push toward local defence production and reduces the need for imported systems.

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SapperScout Ver 2.0 Features

SapperScout Ver 2.0 has been built with a focus on mobility, load-carrying strength, and ease of role change. These features allow soldiers to use the same vehicle for multiple needs in the field.

Platform Features

• All-Terrain Movement: The 6-wheel independent drive and flexible suspension help the UGV move across sand, rocks, snow, and damaged roads without losing balance or control.

• Strong Load Capacity: The UGV can carry up to 900 kg, making it suitable for supplies, tools, rescue stretchers, or mounted systems.

• Smart Movement System:
  Its sensors and onboard controls help it move safely, avoid obstacles, and follow planned paths without constant human input.

• Quick-Change Payload Bay: The UGV can switch between modules such as sensors, rescue tools, anti-drone gear, or weapon stations with minimal setup time.

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SapperScout Ver 2.0: Operational Applications & Battlefield Roles

The main strength of SapperScout Ver 2.0 is that it can support many frontline tasks that often put soldiers at high risk. Its design allows troops to assign new roles quickly based on mission needs.

Operational Applications

• Mine Detection & Laying: With ground-penetrating sensors, the UGV can spot hidden mines and other buried threats. It can also place mines when needed, reducing danger for combat engineers.

• Reconnaissance & Surveillance: Its 360° cameras and live video feed allow safe inspection of forward areas, enemy movement, and risky ground without sending soldiers ahead.

• Casualty Evacuation: The UGV can carry a stretcher and bring injured troops out of dangerous zones such as mined ground or areas under fire, where human rescue teams may not be safe.

• Logistics & Supply Transport: With its high load capacity, the UGV can carry ammunition, water, rations, and gear directly to frontline units across difficult terrain.

• Anti-Drone Support: The UGV can carry jammers and drone-spotting tools, helping units counter hostile drones on the ground.

• Weapon System Support: It can take remote-controlled weapon stations and may later support modular mounting of weapons/C-UAS systems.

SapperScout Ver 2.0 shows how on-ground experience and local engineering can create practical tools for soldiers. 

The UGV reduces danger during mine tasks, patrols, supply runs, and rescue missions. As the Indian Army increases its use of unmanned systems, this fully Indian platform will play an important role in shaping future battlefield support.

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