DEFENCE EQUIPMENT maker BAE Systems has delivered two advanced M-ATV (Mine Resistant Ambush Protected All-Terrain Vehicles) prototypes to the US army for evaluation.
The USCS and GTS M-ATVs, designed for US forces in Afghanistan, are lighter, more mobile versions of first-generation MRAPs. The upgraded vehicles provide critical protection against roadside bombs, EFPs (explosively formed projectiles) and RPGs (rocket propelled grenades).
 Indeed, the USCS M-ATV weighs less than nine tons and offers improved dash as well as slope speeds. The unit, which features a fully independent suspension, is also capable of maintaining a low centre of gravity to prevent roll-overs and ensure maximum off-road mobility.
"This vehicle has the survivability of an MRAP and the mobility of a HMMWV [High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle]," explained Matt Riddle, VP of BAE's US combat systems. "It has the optimum capabilities needed by our troops in Afghanistan."
Similarly, the GTS M-ATV ensures efficient crew protection while fulfilling tactical mobility requirements.
"Our M-ATV provides urgent life-saving technology, multi-mission effectiveness and operational agility not currently available to the Army," said Regis Luther, VP of light tactical vehicles. "We combined the industry's best in combat vehicle survivability and mine blast resistant platforms to develop our M-ATV. We integrate modular EFP and RPG protection systems into a highly survivable M-ATV baseline chassis. Our combat-proven RPG protection is the system of choice for lightweight RPG protection for blast resistant vehicles currently in theater."
As The News previously reported, a number of companies, such as Navistar Defense, have recently delivered upgraded MRAPs to the US military for evaluation.
Navistar's M-ATV is designed to navigate Afghanistan's rough terrain and perform in dangerous, off-road conditions. The 4x4 vehicle, protected by light-weight armour, weighs significantly less than traditional MRAP's. Nevertheless, the formidable M-ATV unit features a reliable MXT base and incorporates elements of the battle-proven Maxxpro survivability system.
"The terrain conditions in Afghanistan demand a smaller, lighter and more mobile vehicle that also incorporates the survivability solution used to protect against IEDs and other threats," Navistar spokesperson Elissa Koc told The News. "Navistar utilises its commercial MXT platform to provide a M-ATV unit that is significantly lighter than its Maxxpro Dash, the lightest of its Maxxpro MRAP vehicles. The military purchased 822 Dash units in September 2008 for use in Afghanistan and then purchased an additional 400 units in December 2008."
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