Marine Corps Systems Command has awarded a contract to produce amphibious combat vehicles (ACVs) to BAE Systems.
The contract options worth US$198 million will allow BAE Systems to build up to 30 low-rate-production vehicles, which it will start delivering in the fall of next year.
The ACV is an eight-wheeled vehicle that will provide protection akin to the mine-resistant "ambush protected vehicle", with landward manoeuvrability and mobility that is superior to that of the assault amphibious vehicle.
They will be outfitted with a precision weapons station for enhanced lethality, and a robust swim capability, allowing them to operate within the littorals and beyond.
I Marine Expeditionary Force will be the first to receive the new ACVs when fielding starts in the fourth quarter of 2020. Full operational capability is scheduled for 2023.
