U.S. Army advances in the procurement of 324 upgraded 8×8 Stryker AFVs and 300 4×4 JLTV Tactical Vehicles

As part of its modernization and equipment renewal efforts for its Stryker Brigade Combat Teams, the United States Army (US Army) is moving forward with the delivery of upgraded wheeled armored fighting vehicles and new 4×4 tactical vehicles. This is evidenced by the initiation of the reception process for new 8×8 Stryker AFVs and JLTV vehicles by the 56th Stryker Brigade Combat Team, stationed at Fort Indiantown Gap, Pennsylvania.

According to information released by the force on February 3, the unit has begun receiving newly upgraded 8×8 Stryker vehicles, which are set to replace older armored vehicles in its inventory. The new additions feature enhanced protection against improvised explosive devices (IEDs) through the adoption of a “double-V” hull, in line with the latest variants of the family currently being produced by General Dynamics.

Regarding the 4×4 JLTVs, these are intended to replace the current M1097 HMMWVs, offering substantial improvements in terms of protection and survivability compared to the aging Humvees.

The modernization plan for the 56th Stryker Brigade Combat Team involves upgrading more than 600 vehicles currently in service within the unit. The first 25 of the total 324 8×8 AFVs will be allocated for crew training. Additionally, field maintenance training courses for mechanics and support teams are scheduled for March.

The unit has also highlighted the reception of these first models equipped with the “double-V” hull, which “…deflects explosive forces away from the vehicle, reducing the risk of catastrophic damage and injuries to the soldiers inside,” as stated by Colonel Christopher Costello, commander of the 56th SBCT.

He added: “This is a great opportunity for the state, the 28th Infantry Division, and the 56th Stryker Brigade Combat Team to modernize our legacy equipment.”

However, the modernization plans for Stryker Brigade Combat Teams are not solely focused on the integration of upgraded 8×8 armored vehicles but also on the procurement of newly manufactured units in their latest variant. This was demonstrated by the contract awarded by the U.S. Army to General Dynamics in late June of last year.

Under this agreement, valued at $712.3 million, the company will manufacture a total of 300 new Stryker DVHA1 AFVs. This variant represents the new standard for the U.S. wheeled armored vehicle family, incorporating “…a redesigned lower hull, impact-attenuating seats, and an armored driver’s station.” The introduced modifications have led to an increase in vehicle weight, which has also necessitated changes to the suspension system and an upgraded powertrain.

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