New video promo for Lockheed Martin JLTV

This video improves considerably on the earlier version. Instead of driving it around the front yard at headquarters the promo contains some shots from testing grounds. The vehicle still doesn't look as sprightly as the Force Protection Cheetah, but as already noted the JLTV program has requirements that the Cheetah probably does not address at present.



Nice production, though the music could have been better.

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More on the Lockheed Martin JLTV (UVL) prototype (Updated)

It seemed only fair to seek out a better representation of the new Lockheed Martin JLTV prototype after the energy I expended trying to get the goods on the BAE/Navistar truck.

"Ed" made a comment about yesterday's post on the unveiling of the new prototypes, pointing out that the Lockheed Martin UVL essentially functions as a military pickup truck.

A visit to the Lockheed Martin Web site gives us a look at the vehicle minus the protective barrier of blue plastic (correction: make that blue canvas director's chairs) chairs, and gives the company a chance to explain what's up with the big box in the back.

clipped from www.lockheedmartin.com

From the Web site:

In contrast to Lockheed Martin's first prototype, the Combat Tactical Vehicle Payload Category B, which was designed as an infantry carrier, the new The Utility Vehicle Light (UVL) Payload Category C prototype is designed with a focus on payload. The variant is used to carry personnel, general cargo and ammunition, or can be configured to carry an S250 shelter. When the shelter is removed, the UVL can be used as a utility or prime mover vehicle.

Update:

What's a S250 shelter?

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Force Protection pushing ahead with plant for Cheetah MRAP

Busher said the company plans to have the first phase of plant upfitting completed by Oct. 8 and that the first vehicle assembly should take place during the fourth quarter of this year. The company is currently interviewing for assemblers, he said.

By mid-2008, Busher said, the company hopes to have its first Cheetah complete and ready to ship from the Roxboro plant.

The Cheetah is designed specifically for reconnaissance, forward command and control, and urban operations, and combines state-of-the-art ballistic and blast protection with the mobility of a light-armored vehicle. Its speed and road handling make it ideal for homeland security missions, Busher said.

(Roxboro-Courier.com)

The story has Busher going on to say that the Cheetah is the likely successor to the Humvee. Lockheed Martin is reportedly preparing a competing design, and Force Protection's local competitor (also headquartered in South Carolina) Protected Vehicles Inc. has also designed a vehicle intended to replace the Humvee.

clipped from www.weeklystandard.com

The Lockheed Martin design.


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