Marten MK2 Pro robot, remote control, and transport case
The U.S. Army has begun using the promising Marten MK2 Pro robot system developed by Uplink Robotics. This new type of robot is a compact remote-controlled wheeled platform designed for reconnaissance or search operations. This RTK is capable of accessing hard-to-reach areas for monitoring or searching.
Ground Platform
Uplink Robotics LLC is a company based in Laramie, Wyoming, primarily producing lightweight robotic systems. The company previously launched the Badger and Marten systems specifically for reconnaissance and search tasks. The Marten system has since been upgraded to enhance its key features.
The updated Marten MK2 Pro RTK debuted in May 2024. While maintaining the main structure and layout, the robot differs from the base version in terms of operational and performance characteristics. The robot’s range of activities and tasks remains unchanged, focusing on movement, observation, and search in difficult terrain.
Uplink Robotics has begun seeking potential buyers and almost immediately offered the upgraded Marten to the U.S. military. In the following months, they engaged in negotiations and coordinated plans. By the end of 2024, customers and suppliers reached a consensus and signed an agreement to provide the RTK for testing.
In March 2025, the “Marten” was tested in the 14th Fire Rescue Squadron
First Mission
The manufacturer has now delivered a batch of “Marten” MK2 Pros to the Pentagon, sending them to the 14th Fire Rescue Squadron of the Air Force in Columbus, Mississippi, for field testing.
On March 20, the 14th Squadron reported on the first test activities using the new RTK. The first mission of the Marten was to inspect a warehouse at the air force base. Under the control of ground operators, the robot inspected several ground buildings. It then moved underground along communication lines to check for damage.
Following this activity, the RTK Marten MK2 Pro received positive feedback. It proved capable of operating effectively in confined spaces and fully completing assigned tasks. Despite the characteristics of underground structures, the robot maintained continuous communication with the operator and transmitted video signals.
Notably, the control of the new robot is extremely simple and intuitive, creating a symbiotic connection with the operator. As a result, this complex has been nicknamed “Venom”—after a character from popular media known for its close connection with humans.
RTK Facility Condition Check
The 14th Fire Rescue Squadron believes that the new RTK will significantly expand its capabilities for various operations. This robot will assist in collecting situational data for decision-making and controlling various processes. At the same time, the use of the robot will reduce risks to personnel.
Chassis with Camera
All robots produced by Uplink Robotics are based on the same principle. They are built on a four-wheeled platform equipped with remote control devices, reconnaissance equipment, and communication systems as payloads. Meanwhile, the “Badger” and two versions of the “Marten” differ in size, weight, and target device characteristics.
The Marten MK2 Pro features a low-profile rectangular body. The front of the body is equipped with optical instruments, while the rest houses motors, batteries, and other devices. There are four wheels at the corners of the body, with diameters significantly exceeding the height of the body.
The robot’s working dimensions are 400 mm in length, 361 mm in width, and 171 mm in height. The overall height of the product is determined by the diameter of the wheels. The weight has not been reported.
Operator in Action
The “Marten” is driven by four independent motors, each powering its own wheel. During movement, all wheels rotate synchronously in one direction, reaching speeds of up to 3 mph (approximately 4.8 km/h). Maneuvering is achieved by rotating the wheels in different directions. The robot can turn in place.
The front end of the body has two adjustable brightness LED light blocks. With their help, the RTK can illuminate the space ahead, improving the working conditions for the camera.
Between the two sets of LEDs, there is a component with two cameras. To survey the surrounding space, this device can swing vertically from -50° to +90°. It has two high-resolution cameras. One is a wide-angle camera for an overall overview; the other is equipped with a 10x optical zoom lens for examining specific objects.
In video mode, both cameras can produce signals at 1080p30 quality. If necessary, photos can also be taken at a resolution of 14 million pixels. Additionally, the robot carries a microphone for recording and transmitting sound.
Backlight Function Demonstration
The remote control used by the Marten MK2 Pro RTK operator has a traditional appearance for such devices. The remote control is shaped like a game controller, featuring various control sticks and buttons. Additionally, there is a display for showing photos, videos, and telemetry data. The sound from the microphone is output through speakers or connected headphones.
The remote control and robot communicate via bidirectional radio communication using the 5.8 GHz Wi-Fi standard. Depending on terrain, interference, and other factors, high-quality complete communication and video transmission can be provided at distances of up to 750 feet (230 meters).
The wheeled robot, control panel, and auxiliary equipment are all housed in a special case. Its dimensions are 624 mm in length, 523 mm in width, and 258 mm in height, making it transportable by any existing means, even carried by the operator.
Representatives of Similar Products
It is worth noting that Uplink Robotics’ Marten MK2 Pro project does not offer any entirely new solutions or bold innovations. It is based on a well-known and repeatedly implemented concept of a small wheeled optical device platform carrier. For a long time, many companies, including Uplink Robotics, have been producing such devices, which have been widely used in various structures.
This RTK structure has many significant advantages. Therefore, the compact wheeled platform can demonstrate quite high operational characteristics, maneuverability, and off-road capability. It can move along complex terrain and access hard-to-reach places, including areas hazardous to humans.
For obvious reasons, this platform cannot carry a large payload. However, it can be equipped with cameras and microphones for monitoring, searching, and other tasks. In this case, the RTK becomes a tool for reconnaissance and enhancing situational awareness. It does not need to address other issues.
Practical experience has shown that such systems can be used by various agencies and organizations to address security and rescue issues. With the help of the Marten MK2 Pro and other similar RTKs, accidents can be prevented or consequences eliminated. In both cases, the robot can provide valuable information for planning expert actions.
The 14th Fire Rescue Squadron of the U.S. Air Force has tested the new robot and expressed satisfaction. According to the plan, the new RTK will be put into full operation and used as needed. It can be expected that other units of the U.S. Armed Forces will follow suit. At the same time, it is also possible that they will choose similar devices produced by other manufacturers.
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