The Joint Light Tactical Vehicle runs a dirt track test at the Churchville Test Area near Aberdeen Proving Ground, Md., June 3.
Army Tests New Tactical Vehicle Beginning of the end for the Humvee Story and photo by David McNally, Research, Development and Engineering Command Public Affairs CHURCHVILLE TEST AREA, Md. -- The Army is testing a new vehicle to eventually replace the iconic Humvee. Officials said the Joint Light Tactical Vehicle will offer increased protection and performance. The Army put the new vehicles through their paces at a dirt test track about 30 minutes from Aberdeen Proving Ground June 3. At first glance, the JLTV looks heavier and safer than current light tactical vehicles. The armor plating and bullet-proof glass will offer better protection for the warfighter, officials said. The vehicle has different configurations, which seat four to six people. The JLTV project is a joint project, but also international. The vehicle is a collaborative product between the U.S. Marine Corps, the Army, the Australian government and three American industry teams. “There are three contractor teams working on a common set of requirements,” said Lt. Col. Wolfgang Petermann, project manager. “The vehicles have a little bit different design solutions built into them.” Summer 2010
Petermann said the contractors delivered the vehicles on schedule and within cost requirements of the contract. The contractors for the project are BAE Systems, General Tactical Vehicles and Lockheed Martin. During the 15-month design and build phase, industry teams interpreted military requirements to come up with their own vehicle prototypes. The phase ended May 3 when contractors delivered the vehicles. Petermann said the group will conduct performance tests on the vehicles at Aberdeen Proving Ground to “provide an assessment of the technical and performance risks.” The team will also conduct tests at Yuma Proving Ground, Ariz., to assess vehicle reliability. Chris Brouwer, chief systems engineer with the project, was on the team three years ago writing the original requirements and scope. “It’s been a great project so far,” Brouwer said. “It’s very rewarding to see the vehicles out here on the track and performing quite well.” 23