Photo By Jonathan Wright | A Marine Depot Maintenance Command employee inspects the interior of the prototype...... read more read more
MDMC Becomes First to Field Prototype Autonomous Vehicle Enhancing Depot Operations
The Marine Depot Maintenance Command (MDMC) has become the first site in the Marine Corps to implement a prototype autonomous tow tractor system within its depot. This milestone showcases how innovation can enhance efficiency, productivity, and safety.
A demonstration, held inside MDMC’s production plant in Albany, Ga., on September 30, featured the tablet-directed vehicle as it circled a mile-and-a-half loop, transporting loads without requiring a human driver. Using a Google Maps-like interface that operates “like a video game,” dispatchers can start, stop, and reroute the vehicle from an office. During the live event, the vehicle automatically halted when its path was obstructed, demonstrating its safety compliance.
“By automating routine movement, we free Marines and civilian employees to focus on the vital maintenance and quality tasks that directly support readiness,” said David Weaver, branch manager, MDMC.
Weaver noted the long-term operational impact: “Our facility is a million square feet under roof. Moving materials across that distance with forklifts eats time and ties up people. Now, operators can stage a pallet onto the vehicle, let it move on its own, and stay focused on their core work. That makes us safer, faster, and more productive.”
The project reflects a year-long collaboration between MDMC, Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany and technology partner STEER Tech. The system was not a drop-in solution; it took “countless meetings” to map workflows, ensure compliance with on-base road rules, and even decide details like where to place the emergency-stop button.
“It is surreal to see this system come to life after months of deliberate planning and detailed customization,” said Anuja Sonalker, CEO and founder of STEER Tech. “This project shows how technology can take on routine transport so people can be reassigned to meaningful work —that’s where the real productivity gains are realized.”
Sonalker added:
“What makes this effort different is the leadership and teamwork behind it. They helped shape every detail to ensure the system was safe, effective, and mission-ready.”
The impact is clear: forklift traffic is reduced, material flow is faster, and built-in sensors ensure the vehicle integrates safely with depot operations. MDMC plans to field five prototype vehicles, each supporting different aspects of depot work. By leading the way, MDMC is setting the benchmark for modernization across the Marine Corps logistics enterprise. As for this first vehicle, the final part of the journey is to give it a name.
| Date Taken: | 09.30.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 09.30.2025 16:06 |
| Story ID: | 549755 |
| Location: | ALBANY, GEORGIA, US |
| Web Views: | 214 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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