BAE Systems demonstrated the improved HMMWV known as ‘Integrated SMART V’ (ISV) to U.S. Army and Marine Corps officials at the Nevada Automotive Test Center’s (NATC) annual Vehicle Systems Demonstration held February 9 in Carson City, Nevada.
Additional blast-protection is expected to become part of the recapitalization program for an estimated 60,000 U.S. Military HMMWVs, expected to be identified for repairs and underbody blast improvements. BAE is proposing the Integrated SMART V system, which stands for ‘Survivable, Modular and Affordable while utilizing a high Re-use strategy and proven innovative Technology.’
The ISV solution features a lightweight monocoque V-shaped hull with front and rear frame clips that attach to the hull to provide the most rigid side- and mine-blast protection available in one affordable package. According to BAE Systems, the ISV™ has significantly improved underbody protection with a highly survivable and adoptable modular design that has three distinct sections creating greater flexibility to tailor each vehicle. The ability to re-use the power train components and the use of low cost materials (not exotic) make this an affordable solution reducing the logistics footprint.
“Proving paper claims through rigorous tests and demonstrations is essential, and the NATC event provided us with the ideal venue to do the latter while also getting valuable feedback from Army and Marine Corps experts. With the ISV, we aimed to clearly demonstrate that the HMMWV’s survivability can significantly be improved, while its overall mobility, ride quality and stability are enhanced utilizing proven technology,” said Chris Chambers, Line Leader with BAE Systems’ Global Tactical Systems business.
