GM Defense continues to see success as the company has announced their joint entry with American Rheinmetall Vehicles has won a contract for the first phase of the U.S. Army’s Common Tactical Truck (CTT) Program.
Their entry was the HX3 Common Tactical Truck (HX3-CTT), which is derived from a MAN vehicle and this promises “optimized lifecycle costs” as well as a robust supply chain. The companies didn’t go into many specifics, but said the HX3-CTT has “enhanced on- and off-road mobility, integrated survivability, and an open digital architecture supporting ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) and enabled for autonomous vehicle operation.”
That’s a bit vague, but American Rheinmetall noted the HX3 family of vehicles can handle a wide range of roles and features a protected cabin with relatively large windows for an improved field of view. Speaking of which, the company noted an optional BirdView camera system which sounds similar to what you’d find on a Chevy Suburban. On the topic of traditional automotive features, the company mentioned Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Warning, and Emergency Brake Assist.
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On the military side, American Rheinmetall noted the HX3 family has a redesigned cabin with improved ergonomics, spacious storage compartments, and a digital blackout mode that can disable “all transmission and reception functions to reduce the vehicle’s digital signature.” The company also mentioned improved protection against mines and improvised explosive devices as well as active self-defense capabilities.
The Common Tactical Truck Program seeks to find a replacement for the Army’s current heavy tactical trucks. It’s a multi-phased program, but the eventual winner will hit the jackpot as the Army is seeking up to 40,000 trucks valued at up to $14 (£11.3 / €12.9) billion.
While it’s a long process, GM Defense President Steve duMont said “Winning the CTT prototype phase demonstrates the undeniable value that the strategic collaboration between GM Defense and American Rheinmetall Vehicles brings to this important, next-generation Army program.” He added, “We are excited to bring our advanced technologies and manufacturing prowess into this important collaboration and deliver a proven, modern solution to enhance warfighter capability.” He went on to say the company looks forward to strengthening their position to win future phases of the program.
Besides the American Rheinmetall Vehicles/GM Defense entry, contracts were awarded to Mack Defense, Navistar Defense, and Oshkosh Defense. The Army says they’ll build prototypes that represent their offerings for the M915 Line Haul Tractor, M1088 Medium Tractor, and Heavy Expanded Mobility Tactical Truck.