Who Gets the Contract to Modernize the U.S. Army’s Armored Fleet?

In a move signifying the US Army’s commitment to modernizing its armored fleet, BAE Systems has been awarded a $184 million contract modification to produce an additional 48 Armored Multi-Purpose Vehicles (AMPVs). This latest agreement builds upon a full-rate production contract secured by BAE Systems in August 2023, underscoring the AMPV’s pivotal role in the Army’s future ground operations.

The AMPV, a cutting-edge armored platform designed to replace the aging M113 family of tracked vehicles, represents a significant leap forward in capabilities. Since the 1960s, the M113 has served as a workhorse for the US Army, but its limitations in modern combat scenarios necessitated a successor capable of meeting evolving threats.

The AMPV program, envisioned to field over 2,900 vehicles across five distinct variants, aims to provide the Army with a highly mobile, survivable, and adaptable platform. These variants – General Purpose, Mortar Carrier, Medical Evacuation, Medical Treatment, and Mission Command – cater to a wide array of battlefield roles, ensuring that soldiers have the necessary tools for mission success.

“Soldiers deserve advanced capabilities like the AMPV that have been successfully tested to accomplish the many mission roles they will serve in the formation,” stated Bill Sheehy, AMPV program director for BAE Systems. “It’s remarkable to have advanced to this stage of full-rate production. We value our continued partnerships with the Army and our suppliers who work alongside us to ensure we keep producing these critical combat vehicles at higher, sustainable volumes.”

Production Ramp-Up and Economic Impact

The production of these 48 AMPVs will be distributed across BAE Systems facilities in multiple states, highlighting the program’s positive impact on the American economy. Manufacturing will take place in Aiken, South Carolina; Anniston, Alabama; Phoenix, Arizona; Sterling Heights, Michigan; and York, Pennsylvania.

BAE Systems has outlined plans for a substantial expansion of its York, Pennsylvania facility to accommodate increased AMPV production. This investment underlines the company’s commitment to meeting the Army’s growing demand for the vehicle and secures its position as a key player in the US defense industrial base.

This latest contract follows a $754 million award in March 2024, marking the transition of the AMPV program into its second phase. The program’s momentum and the continued investment from the Department of Defense signal a long-term commitment to fielding this critical asset.

AMPV: A Technological Leap for the Armored Brigade 

Based on the combat-proven Bradley Fighting Vehicle chassis, the AMPV leverages existing technology while incorporating significant enhancements. The vehicle boasts a robust all-welded aluminum hull with enhanced armor protection and anti-explosive coating, ensuring crew survivability in hostile environments.

Powered by a 600-horsepower Cummins diesel engine, the AMPV can achieve speeds exceeding 60 kilometers per hour and boasts a range of over 360 kilometers. This combination of speed, range, and maneuverability allows the AMPV to keep pace with the Army’s main battle tanks and provide critical support across a variety of operational environments.

The AMPV’s armament varies depending on the specific variant but can include heavy machine guns, automatic grenade launchers, and mortars, providing a formidable array of firepower. Furthermore, the platform is designed with future upgrades in mind, ensuring its relevance and effectiveness for decades to come.

A Modern Battlefield Solution

The AMPV represents a comprehensive solution to the challenges faced by the modern armored brigade combat team. Its advanced capabilities, adaptability, and growth potential ensure that the US Army remains equipped to face future threats and maintain its technological edge on the battlefield.