Navistar Defense has confirmed plans to compete for a US military order of next generation MRAP (Mine Resistant Ambush Protected) vehicles.
The company has already delivered a number of advanced M-ATV units that will undergo rigorous testing in the Army's mine resistant vehicle programme.
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 IED's 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."
Navistar Defense president Archie Massicotte explained that the M-ATV was designed to "fill a gap" that existed between smaller, traditional armoured 4x4's and larger transport vehicles.
"By utilising our existing commercial platform, we are able to rapidly advance our vehicle design and provide the military with a product that supports mission needs in Afghanistan," said Massicote. "Since our original MRAP award in May 2007, Navistar has delivered more than 6,000 MaxxPro vehicles to the military. We are also dedicated to the rapid modification of our vehicles to meet evolving mission needs. In less than 18 months, we were able to modify and deliver six Maxxpro MRAP variants."
Massicote also explained that the company had fielded a similar MXT-based vehicle (the Huksy) with the United Kingdom for the same mission purpose in Afghanistan. In addition, Navistar will compete to replace the UK's light tactical wheeled fleet, which includes Land Rover, Wolf, Reynolds Boughton RB-44 and Pinzgauer vehicles.
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