News.

Forterra and Hiab Announce Strategic Partnership to Advance Autonomy in Load Handling

Collaboration aims to advance intelligent automation across Hiab’s portfolio of load handling solutions.

Clarksburg, MD, Sep, 09,  2025 - Forterra, a leader in autonomous mission systems, and Hiab, a global provider of on-road load handling solutions, have signed a strategic partnership agreement to boost development of autonomous trucking and load handling solutions.  

The agreement reflects both companies’ commitment to advancing the future of logistics through intelligent automation. Forterra’s modular autonomy platform, which has been proven in demanding, real-world environments, is being combined with Hiab’s automated load handling solutions and top-of-the-line loading/unloading expertise. The partnership aims to unlock new opportunities across load handling, workflow automation, and coordinated vehicle operations.

By automating traditionally human-controlled systems such as cranes and hooklifts, the partnership brings autonomy deeper into the logistics workflow. This shift aims at enhancing safety, improving efficiency, and allowing personnel to transfer to higher-value tasks. Forterra’s experience operating in complex, unstructured environments ensure its autonomy platform can deliver real-world performance at scale.

Initial collaboration will focus on aligning technology roadmaps, exploring integration pathways, and identifying areas where automation can meaningfully improve safety, reduce operator workload, and enhance operational efficiency.  

Hiab is a leading provider of smart and sustainable on road load-handling solutions. Hiab's premium equipment includes loader cranes, truck mounted forklifts, forestry cranes, recycling cranes, demountables and hooklifts, roll-off cable hoists, tail lifts, and a series of smart solutions.

Forterra brings more than a decade of experience deploying autonomous systems in complex and unstructured environments, including military logistics, commercial freight, and industrial operations.

While no specific product announcements are being made at this time, the partnership marks the beginning of a long-term collaboration to explore how autonomy can extend beyond vehicle movement to reshape the entire load-handling ecosystem.

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About Forterra

Forterra delivers advanced autonomous systems designed to meet the mission-critical demands of today’s defense and national security landscape. Built and integrated at scale and speed, Forterra puts effective and reliable technology into the hands of operators when and where they are needed in any contested environment. www.forterra.com

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Forterra Selected to Support U.S. Army’s Plan to Integrate Autonomous Capabilities into Unmanned Systems

Forterra’s autonomy stack, AutoDrive, will be rapidly integrated into four Infantry Squad Vehicles (ISV).

WASHINGTON, D.C., August 29, 2025 — Forterra, the leading provider of autonomous mission systems for defense, today announced it was selected by the U.S. Army to support the agency’s plan to prove out autonomy for Unmanned Systems (UxS). The Army seeks to acquire an autonomous solution capable of operating across all Operational Design Domains (ODD) to meet future combat demands.

Forterra is the only provider delivering across all major ground autonomy programs, developing software, hardware and operating systems at scale. Forterra will integrate four ISVs with AutoDrive, an autonomy stack that enables mobility, next generation communication and third-party payload integrations. It allows soldiers or operators to intervene at any point, should it become necessary.

Forterra integrates a common autonomy stack across every mission system, ensuring seamless interoperability. Designed for extensibility and integration, Forterra’s autonomy stack allows vehicles to operate independently or as part of a connected, resilient force. This combination of robust autonomy with seamless communications and networking ensures Forterra-equipped platforms can adapt to the evolving complexity of modern battlefields.

“Autonomy on the battlefield is becoming globally ubiquitous, and it’s imperative that the United States maintains a competitive advantage,” said Forterra Vice President of Defense Growth Patrick Acox. “The U.S. Army is looking to expand its frontline capabilities, and we are thrilled that Forterra is being considered as part of those efforts. We work hard to serve and support our country’s Soldiers and civilian workers, and we believe our technology will equip the UxS with the necessary tools to deliver on our mission.”

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About Forterra

Forterra delivers autonomous mission systems for defense. The company is the only provider contracted across all major ground autonomy programs and deployed at scale today. It builds scalable, robust, mission critical hardware and software platforms that empower its customers to deploy autonomy as a force multiplier, extending reach, survivability, and effectiveness across the battlespace and industrial applications. Forterra is headquartered in Clarksburg, Md., with offices in Washington, D.C., Winter Park, Fla., Ketchum, Idaho. and Palo Alto, Calif. To learn more, go to forterra.com

Media Contact:

Sanaz Tahernia

Forterra Communications

press@forterra.com

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Ketchum, Idaho, July, 24 2025 - Forterra, a leader in autonomous systems for defense, today announced a formal partnership with Higher Ground, the nationally recognized nonprofit dedicated to transforming the lives of veterans, first responders and individuals with disabilities through therapeutic recreation and education.

Forterra and Higher Ground are united by a shared mission: to serve those who have served. Both organizations are deeply committed to empowering veterans; Forterra through technology that protects and extends warfighter capability, and Higher Ground through therapeutic recreation that builds resilience and community. This partnership bridges those worlds, bringing veterans new opportunities to reconnect, recover, and re-engage with purpose.

“Forterra’s technology is built with a singular mission to reduce the impact of combat on humans,” said Josh Araujo, CEO of Forterra. “By partnering with Higher Ground, we’re extending that mission beyond the battlefield. We're honored to support their life-changing work and look forward to introducing veterans to the future of autonomous systems and national security innovation.”

“We are thrilled to have Forterra as a partner in our mission,” said Cole Petrie, CEO of Higher Ground. “Their support enables us to expand our impact through our programs enhancing the lives of veterans and first responders. Together, we’re building bridges from trauma to recovery, from service to purpose.”

A few of the sponsorship highlights include Forterra’s title sponsor of the fall 2025 Fly Fishing Week in Sun Valley, Idaho. A DC reception to advance discussions on veteran well-being and transitions into fields like autonomy and defense tech. Future efforts will include mentorship, tech exposure events, and co-branded service initiatives.

This partnership represents more than an event or initiative; it's a long-term commitment to the people who have served and sacrificed. Together, Forterra and Higher Ground are creating a platform where service members can heal, grow, and continue making an impact, whether in nature, in community, or in the technology shaping the future of national defense.

Forterra
Forterra delivers advanced autonomous systems designed to meet the mission-critical demands of today’s defense and national security landscape. Built and integrated at scale and speed, Forterra puts effective and reliable technology into the hands of operators when and where they are needed in any contested environment.

Higher Ground
Higher Ground has been transforming lives through therapeutic recreation and education for over 25 years. With programs based in Sun Valley, Idaho and across the country, Higher Ground uses outdoor recreation and therapy to support veterans, first responders and individuals with disabilities in building resilience, confidence, and belonging.

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Forterra is on the move.

We’ve opened new offices in Palo Alto, CA and Orlando, FL, growing our national presence to accelerate what comes next in autonomous mission systems.

Palo Alto: At the Core of Innovation

Our Palo Alto location puts us at the epicenter of AI, autonomy, and robotics. We’re embedding ourselves in the networks, talent, and technologies shaping the future of automated systems.

Orlando: Embedded with the Mission

In Orlando, we’re deepening ties with the defense and simulation communities across the Southeast. This hub brings us closer to key military programs, training pipelines, and operational partners, enhancing how we co-develop, test, and deliver.

Expanding Access, Accelerating Outcomes

These are not just office locations. They’re operational outposts, strategic extensions of how we build, scale, and support autonomous systems for logistics, mobility, and mission execution.

If you’re nearby, let’s connect.

If you want to build with us, now’s the time. Check out our career opportunities.

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Kalmar Introduces Ottawa AutoTT, The Future of Autonomous Terminal Tractors

‍Kalmar, a leader in terminal tractor solutions, in collaboration with autonomous technology leader Forterra, has unveiled the Kalmar Ottawa AutoTT™, an autonomous terminal tractor solution designed to improve efficiency and safety in distribution centers, container terminals, and industrial yards. The AutoTT™ is currently undergoing its second round of testing as Kalmar moves closer to bringing it to market.

‍Kalmar and Forterra signed a joint development agreement in March 2024 to advance autonomous terminal tractor solutions. This partnership leverages Kalmar's industry-leading terminal tractors and Forterra’s AutoDrive®, an autonomous driving system built to operate in extreme environments and complex driving scenarios that meet military standards.

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Kalmar is initially rolling out the AutoTT™ for use in distribution centers across North America, helping businesses streamline operations and enhance workplace safety. Following successful implementation, the technology will expand into container terminals and other industrial operations globally.

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Kalmar has equipped the AutoTT™ with an automation-ready drive system, allowing it to operate safely and efficiently without a driver. Forterra’s AutoDrive® system will enable Kalmar Ottawa AutoTT™ to perform complex autonomous maneuvers such as moving trailers in busy yards with precision. The AutoTT™ is also fully integrated with Kalmar One, a scalable automation platform proven in container terminal operations, managing fleets of up to 200 autonomous units.

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Kalmar and Forterra are taking a phased approach to introducing the AutoTT™:
-Ongoing testing: The second round of testing is currently underway, with safety drivers on board to monitor performance in real-world settings.
-Advancing drive-by-wire technology: Kalmar continues refining the tractor’s automated driving capabilities.
-Proof of concept in 2025: The next major milestone is validating the AutoTT™ within operational fleets.
-Pilot program: A broader pilot with select customers will follow, still requiring a safety driver.
-Full production by late 2026: Once testing is complete, Kalmar plans to launch production and make the AutoTT™ widely available.
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Kalmar and Forterra’s collaboration represents a significant leap in logistics automation, offering customers an industry-proven solution backed by two trusted innovators and providing a reliable and scalable solution for businesses looking to integrate autonomous vehicles into their operations.
The Kalmar Ottawa AutoTT™ will first be available for the Kalmar Ottawa T2, with an electric version (T2EV) to follow.
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For more information, visit Kalmar at the Advanced Clean Transportation (ACT) Expo, April 28-May 1, in Anaheim, California. The AutoTT is on display in Kalmar’s booth #6759.

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For more information contact: Press@Forterra.com

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As modern warfare continues to evolve, future battlefields will be shaped by the presence of autonomous ground vehicles. Positioning for success, BAE Systems recently signed a partnership agreement with Forterra – a leader in self-driving defense technology – to enable the development of autonomous ground vehicles as part of multi-domain integration. Together, both companies will play a role in transforming how military operations will be conducted in the future.

“Autonomy is at the heart of what is needed to prevail on the modern battlefield,” said John Borton, managing director of BAE Systems’ Weapons Systems UK business. “This strategic collaboration aims to bring increased capability and improved lethality to the battlefield and looks to the future of pioneering innovation.”

The partnership provides the opportunity to explore integrating Forterra’s Land Autonomy Systems onto new and existing BAE Systems ground-based platforms.

“Autonomous systems are a necessity, not a luxury, for warfighters. By integrating advanced autonomy with proven warfighting platforms, we’re ensuring that operators have the tools and capabilities at scale that they need to combat and stay ahead of evolving threats,” said Christian Seifert, head of Robotic Missile Systems at Forterra.

The combined expertise of Forterra’s innovation in driverless technology and BAE Systems’ heritage of technical excellence will equip warfighters with enhanced combat capability – helping them to stay unmatched in battle.

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