ArvinMeritor, Inc. today announced it will be the drivetrain supplier for two of the three prime contractors awarded technology demonstrator contracts for the Joint Light Tactical Vehicle (JLTV) - Lockheed Martin Systems Integration and BAE Systems U.S. Combat Systems.
ArvinMeritor has developed advanced technology solutions for the JLTV program that include the Meritor lightweight, high mobility independent suspensions, an integrated all-wheel drive system, a central tire inflation system, semi-active damping, and MeritorWABCO hydraulic braking systems with electronic stability control. With a contract volume valued at approximately $20 billion, the JLTV is the largest military vehicle program expected in the next two decades.
"ArvinMeritor is highly committed to this important effort and intends to make a significant investment in engineering and prototype development to support the JLTV program," said Carsten Reinhardt, president of ArvinMeritor's Commercial Vehicle Systems business. "Our unique capability in developing specialized drivetrain solutions makes ArvinMeritor the right partner to deliver the technology required for this highly advanced, next generation vehicle platform."
ArvinMeritor began working on new products and technologies for the JLTV program in 2006, participating in the Nevada Automotive Test Centers (NATC) Combat Tactical Vehicle Technical Demonstrator program. In that competition, the NATC conducted detailed industry trade studies to assemble a team to build the demonstrator. ArvinMeritor was selected over several competitors to provide a high-wheel travel independent suspension drive axle, pneumatic brake system and electronic stability control.
The JLTV is a joint Army and Marine Corps program being developed to replace the U.S. military's aging fleet of light tactical vehicles. With the technology development contracts, the winning teams take another step forward in the competition. This phase of the program will last for 27 months. At the conclusion of the Technology Demonstration phase, the Army is expected to select two firms for the next phase of the competition, Engineering Manufacturing and Development, before choosing a winner as early as fiscal year 2013 for a production contract.