The US Army is conducting Military Utility Assessment (MUA) of five demonstration trucks built under a US$60 million technology evaluation program known as “Future Tactical Truck System” (FTTS). The test involving vehicles developed by Lockheed Marin, International Trucks and Armor Holdings (formerly Stewart & Stevenson) include three utility vehicles and two maneuver sustainment vehicles (MSV). During the evaluation, the vehicles are operated by troops of the 5th Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division, and the 14th Engineer Battalion at Ft. Lewis to assess their military performance.
The 18,500 pound (8.39 ton) tactical utility vehicle is the smaller vehicle, built by International. It is powered by a hybrid-electric engine, positioned in the rear, clearing more room in the cab. The vehicle used four-wheel steering for enhanced maneuverability, including driving sideways. The vehicle is fitted with a remote weapons system.
A larger, 25,000 pound (11.34 ton) vehicle was built by Lockheed Martin. This vehicle offers an articulated drive, adjusting the vehicle’s height, and a tilt system enabling the truck and trailer to travel over rough terrain. The vehicle is designed with a V-shaped hull designed to deflect IED blasts. It has a top road speed of 75 mph.
Armor Holdings developed the Maneuver Sustainment Vehicle (MSV) comprising a hybrid electric drive that can deliver up to 30 kilowatts of exportable power. Each wheel is powered by a new 120kW electrical motor made by UQM. The vehicle is also equipped with a fully robotic crane that can lift 13 tons of cargo and remotely operated weapon station.
