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Archive for the ‘Mobility’ Category

MATBOCK, LLC of Virginia Beach, VA, Is Awarded $17.3m Phase 4 Contract Modification to Further the Advances from the Previous Joint Light Tactical Vehicle Hybrid Electric Vehicle pOTA Contract

Monday, April 28th, 2025

Virginia Beach, VA: MATBOCK, an industry leader in bringing paradigm shifting technologies to the market, is excited to announce the 4th phase and partnership with the U.S. Army Rapid Capabilities and Critical Technologies Office (RCCTO) to develop a Joint Light Tactical Vehicle Hybrid Electric Vehicle (JLTV HEV) prototype that will utilize a Heavy Gun Carrier JLTV as the base platform.

On 16 September 2024, MATBOCK started the 4th phase in developing and building the battlefield changing JLTV HEV. MATBOCK was awarded a modification to a previously awarded contract to develop and deliver a JLTV HEV.  The primary purpose of the 3rd phase of this project was to validate or negate the feasibility of prototyping a tactical HEV. The goals of the project were to increase the overall automotive performance and operational range, increase the availability of on-board and off platform power, and increase the vehicle’s overall operational effectiveness by adding additional capabilities.

During the 4TH phase of this contract, MATBOCK will refine and deliver two (2) additional JLTV HEVs to the Army for extensive testing. The design and build phases will require the MATBOCK team to design and deliver technology and parts that have not yet been developed for today’s use in this application.

MATBOCK has used the time between phases to redesign its facility to accommodate the additional personnel and equipment required to deliver battle ready JLTV HEVs.  The MATBOCK Team of professionals dedicated to this project have been brought together from a diverse range of backgrounds to deliver the most innovative technology yet. Leading the charge is an experienced program manager who has delivered complex projects under tight timelines to the DoD.  The team is comprised of former military personnel and EV / automotive professionals bringing a unique blend of overseas experience and industry thought leaders.

MATBOCK President Zach Steinbock said, “We are all extremely excited and proud to continue the development of the JLTV HEV.  Overcoming the challenges of the last phase showed true resilience from our engineers and mechanics, and the lessons learned will be critical in the future successes of making this technology truly operational in combat scenarios.  The capabilities of a hybrid electric allow for a redefinition of what combat vehicles can achieve in the battlespace.”

www.matbock.com

Polaris Government and Defense Boosts Power in Its Military Snowmobile Lineup

Thursday, April 3rd, 2025

Minneapolis – April 2, 2025 – The military snowmobile lineup from Polaris Government and Defense takes arctic mobility to the next level with the introduction of the 2026 Military 850 TITAN 155. Powered by the 850 Patriot engine, this option provides commonality with the Military 850 RMK 155 as well as more than 25 percent more torque and power than the 650 TITAN for applications that need it, as well as responsive performance and increased acceleration. Warfighters worldwide rely on Polaris Government and Defense to provide off-road, light tactical vehicles for the most austere conditions. Polaris militarized snowmobiles, or over-snow reconnaissance vehicles (OSRVs), are a critical component of the off-road arsenal for winter warfare. And the all-new 850 TITAN builds on Polaris’ legacy of delivering unmatched durability and mobility in extreme winter conditions.

“Arctic mobility is demanding, and no one knows this terrain better than Polaris, having produced snowmobiles for more than 70 years, and driving innovation in these capable platforms ever since,” said Nick Francis, vice president, Polaris Government and Defense. “Polaris military snowmobiles and tactical vehicles allow operators to move further and faster in critical arctic and mountainous snow-covered environments and execute critical missions with confidence and efficiency.”

The 2026 Military 850 TITAN 155 and 2026 Military 850 RMK 155

The 850 Patriot engine serves as the proven foundation for durability, toughness and control for the entire Patriot family of engines. The all-new Military 850 TITAN is a workhorse capable of managing heavy-duty winter tasks on- or off-trail, with the engine providing more than 25 percent more torque and power than the 650 TITAN for rapid acceleration, improved towing capabilities and reliable performance in sub-zero conditions. The two-person utility snowmobile is designed to handle heavy payloads and is equipped with a reinforced cargo system to accommodate a passenger plus another 125 lbs of added cargo, as well as a hitch to tow a sled and an additional 1200 lbs of mission-critical supplies. An optional winch provides 1500 lbs of capacity for vehicle recovery or to move obstacles.

Featuring the patented BackTrak20 rear suspension, high-clearance independent front suspension, 20” wide Cobra track and Trailbreaker skis, the TITAN provides flotation and performance in varying snow conditions and can climb on top of snow better than any previous model – in forward or reverse. The TITAN also has an articulating rail, allowing the extra-long track to hinge upwards at the back, and a removeable rear snowflap for even greater mobility backing up. The transmission has high and low gearing for controlled power distribution and added initial engine torque for heavy loads. A cooling system with a radiator keeps the TITAN’s engine temp optimized during slow speed operation, while towing heavy loads and in marginal snow conditions for more reliable operation and dependability.New accessories also include a large, 30-gallon capacity utility box to contain and protect equipment.

The military snowmobile lineup from Polaris also includes the 2026 Military 850 RMK 155, which is a nimble, lightweight snowmobile engineered for unmatched precision in technical terrain for patrol and reconnaissance. The extended track and tapered tunnel increase the snowmobile’s performance in deep snow while a full-length cooler provides better cooling and greater reliability in marginal snow conditions. High elevation clutch calibration provides optimal operation at increased altitudes for this model, while Walker Evans Racing Velocity shocks provide adjustability for varying rider and kit weight and size for greater control and precise handling.

Polaris Government and Defense provides key modifications to its military snowmobiles, based on operator feedback and mission profiles:

Blackout Mode – a single switch instantly turns off all lights for discreet operation

IR Light – infrared lighting provides visibility to operators while in blackout mode

White Body Panels – additional white on military snowmobiles provides camouflage

12V outlets – power or charge hand-held electronics and other mission essentials

Power Boosting Regulator – automatically provides maximum electrical power at idle and low RPMs to support the 12V outlet as well as any added accessories

Handlebar with Mountain Hoop – the added hoop provides better operator ride angle and control

Operations in snowy, Arctic conditions demand reliability, agility and stealth. Polaris military snowmobiles are built with that in mind: durable two-stroke engines and electric start ensure dependable operation, even in extreme cold, while a manual pull-start provides backup when needed. To increase stealth, these two military snowmobiles are designed to blend in tosnowy, arctic environmental conditions. A keyless ignition also comes standard on military models to simplify fleet operation and provide quick deployment in demanding environments.

Military snowmobiles from Polaris Government and Defense are delivered mission-ready to military customers with confidence that all modifications have been validated by Polaris engineers. The dedicated team delivers training courses to maximize operator effectiveness and ability for these specialty platforms.

Polaris Government and Defense also provides arctic mobility through its MRZR Alpha light tactical all-terrain vehicle. The MRZR Alpha transitions to cold-weather environments and terrain with the addition of an Arctic Mobility Kit. A fully enclosed cab helps protect occupants from weather conditions and environmental elements while a track conversion kit replaces each wheel with a separate track assembly providing off-road, all-terrain maneuver capability over snow, soft soil and mixed terrain. The full cab and tracks expand the environments the MRZR Alpha can operate in and increase an already wide range of terrain for which it is well-suited.

Polaris’ commercially modified platforms are air transportable, highly capable and a force multiplier for every service in the United States military and more than 60 allied countries. In addition to military snowmobiles, Polaris Government and Defense provides tactical wheeled vehicles like the MRZR, DAGOR and MV850.

military.polaris.com/en-us

INKAS Armored – The Legendary Armored Toyota Land Cruiser 250 Is Here!

Wednesday, April 2nd, 2025

The long-awaited Toyota Land Cruiser 250 is here, and INKAS® Armored is enhancing its strength with BR6-level armoring. The armored Land Cruiser 250 is a vehicle that embodies the legacy of durability, reliability, and rugged off-road capabilities. After being discontinued in North America, this iconic SUV has made a highly anticipated return—now more substantial and more efficient than ever with an advanced hybrid powertrain.

Even before receiving INKAS®’ world-class armoring, the Toyota Land Cruiser 250 is built to endure extreme conditions and vigorous terrains. Its reinforced structure and powerful design make it a formidable off-road contender renowned for its dependability. INKAS® transforms this legendary SUV into an unstoppable fortress, offering ballistic protection with blast protection for those who demand the highest level of security.

The Return of an Off-Road Legend
For decades, the Toyota Land Cruiser has been praised for its rugged prowess and continuous dependability. Its overall stature and powerful fabrication are some of the reasons that make it one of the most anticipated automotive events in recent history. The 250 series retains its core identity while integrating modern innovations, including a hybrid-assisted powertrain for enhanced performance and efficiency. This marks a new chapter for Land Cruiser enthusiasts, combining legendary toughness with eco-conscious engineering.

INKAS® Armoring: Elevating Security to the Next Level
INKAS® takes the Land Cruiser 250 to new heights by fortifying it with industry-leading, mission-tested armoring. Designed for high-risk individuals, law enforcement, corporate clients, and governments, the INKAS® Armored Land Cruiser 250 is built to withstand threats without compromising performance or comfort.

Key Armoring Features Include:
– Ballistic protection surrounded the vehicle, creating a capsule to withstand high-powered rifle fire and explosions to the walls, floor, or roof.

– Multi-layer ballistic glass in windows and windshield that still offers a clear view outside.

– Upgraded suspension and reinforced chassis to mitigate the additional weight while maintaining superior off-road capabilities.

– Runflat system for continued mobility with a punctured or even absent tire.

– Armored overlap system that fully encloses and extends the armor around the doors, ensuring even the most vulnerable areas are bulletproof.

A Game-Changer for North American Markets
With safety concerns rising, the demand for reliable, armored vehicles has never been higher. The INKAS® Armored Toyota Land Cruiser 250 is the perfect fusion of legendary toughness and ballistic security, offering peace of mind to those who require life-saving protection.

“The return of the Toyota Land Cruiser is something enthusiasts and security-conscious individuals have been eagerly awaiting, and we’re thrilled to offer it in an armored configuration that amplifies its already robust design.” said Arthur Yurovitsky, Vice President at INKAS® Armored.

Wait No Longer – Available Now!
The INKAS® Armored Toyota Land Cruiser 250 is now available for order! Clients can customize their vehicles with a range of protective enhancements to suit their specific mission requirements.

About INKAS® Armored
INKAS® Armored is a global leader in armored vehicle manufacturing, specializing in security solutions for civilian, corporate, law enforcement, and military officials. With a commitment to quality, innovation, and customer safety, INKAS® continues to set the standard in the armored vehicle industry.

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Visit the INKAS® Armored website or contact us for more information.

Mack Defense Reaches Milestone with 500th U.S. Army M917A3 Heavy Dump Truck

Monday, March 31st, 2025

ALLENTOWN, PA (March 24, 2025) – MackDefense celebrated the production of its 500th M917A3 Heavy Dump Truck (HDT) in Allentown, Pennsylvania.

The HDT, based off the commercially available Mack® Granite®, is part of the previously announced firm-fixed price $296 million contract over seven years that the U.S. Army awarded Mack Defense in 2018, which allows for up to 683 trucks. The U.S. military in the summer of 2024 ordered 74 HDTs from the presidential budget and 29 were purchased by the U.S. National Guard. Thus far, the military has ordered 549 HDTs from Mack Defense.

“We’re excited that we’ve produced 500 of the Mack HDTs to date fulfilling the various operational needs of our military,” said David Hartzell, president of Mack Defense. “These vehicles play a vital role in supporting our country in various ways, and we’re proud to be the supplier that manufactures them. Thank you to our Mack Defense employees, who made this possible.”

The HDTs play a vital role in construction andupkeep of infrastructure assets, including airfields, roadways, landing strips, supply facilities and motor pools.

The HDTs are spec’d with heavier-duty rear axles, all-wheel drive, increased suspension ride height and other ruggedized features to meet the unique requirements of the U.S. military.

The HDT model also features advanced technology, including ABS, modern control interfaces for user-friendly operation, and active safety systems. These modern technologies, coupled with improved sustainability, were key factors in the Army’s investment in the new HDTs. Both the HDTs and the production line at the MEC have undergone rigorous inspection by government quality auditors to ensure these mission-critical trucks exceed expectations.

Production of the HDTs began in Q1 2021,following an investment of $6.5 million to create adedicated HDT production line at the facility. Theproduction line helps fulfill the M917A3 contract, while allowing Mack Defense to produce other vehicle variants.

Mack Defense, a wholly owned subsidiary of Mack Trucks, is responsible for the

sale of heavy-duty trucks to federal- and ministerial-level customers globally. For more information, please visit www.mackdefense.com.

Arctic Mobility Sustainment System Tested at US Army Arctic Regions Test Center

Monday, March 31st, 2025

FORT GREELY, Alaska — Deployed Soldiers are constantly loaded with gear, but are particularly encumbered when operating in a cold weather environment.

In addition to their conventional weapons, Soldiers need to utilize heavy equipment like space heaters, cooking stoves, fuel and heavy-duty thermal tents to survive operations in arctic climates.

The Army’s Arctic Mobility Sustainment System, or AMSS, all-regions tactical clothing with updated cold weather clothing, snowshoes and ski poles underwent rigorous testing at U.S. Army Arctic Regions Test Center — known as ARTC — this winter with the help of Soldiers from the Army’s 11th Airborne stationed at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson.

“We’re traveling longer distances to get the snow that we need,” Hannah Henry, ARTC test officer. “We’re getting a lot more data this year.”

The AMSS items under test will replace the legacy Ahkio sled and 10-person tent the Army currently uses. Testers expected extreme cold for the multi-week test, and the interior Alaska winter delivered a wide span of Arctic conditions, from brutal temperatures below 0 degrees Fahrenheit to rapid, but short-lived swings to relatively mild winter temperatures only slightly below freezing.

“We’re testing some different base layers,” said Steven Prewitt, ARTC test officer. “Our unusually warm winter here has been very good for observing insulating and moisture management factors with the clothing.”

On a typical day, Soldiers would pack an AMSS sled under test with the tent, a heater, and their basic standard issue items for arctic infantry operations, then pull the sleds in either nine-Soldier squads or four to five Soldier teams as ARTC’s test personnel led the way. Moving the heavy sleds across CRTC’s hilly tundra, thickly forested areas and the dense, frozen boggy vegetation called muskeg is challenging in any conditions, but particularly so in extreme cold and deep snow.

“Our snow is so dry and powdery,” said Isaac Howell, Chief of ARTC’s Test Operations Division. “You don’t stand on it at all, whether you are on skis or in snowshoes — you don’t go across the top of it, you go through it. You are plowing snow the entire day regardless of whether you are wearing snowshoes or not.”

After a two-and-a-half-hour movement, testers kept track of how long it took the soldiers to emplace and erect each tent and get the space heaters operating. Following a cold weather MRE for lunch, the Soldiers disassembled the tent and heater and returned to their day’s starting point following a different route. Following a sensing survey on their opinion of the items and hot meal, the Soldiers reassembled the tents and heaters and prepared to sleep in the long, cold Arctic night.

Through it all, telemetry on the Soldiers measured their body core and extremity temperature for both feedback on the clothing and for safety. They also participated in a comprehensive feedback focus group every week that will be used when assessing the effectiveness of the tested gear.

By Mark Schauer

EV Pioneer Donut Defence Selected for International Defence Technology Accelerator

Monday, March 24th, 2025

DEFINE Accelerator program, a three-month intensive initiative, brings together top players in defence and security technology to drive innovation, commercialization and global market expansion. Donut Defence is optimistic about the significant support this program will provide for its business scaling efforts and the potential for new partnerships.

The Finnish company Donut Defence, which develops and manufactures electric vehicle technologies for the defence industry, has been selected to participate in the DEFINE Accelerator program. Kicking off today, this international defence industry accelerator is coordinated by the City of Riihimäki and venture capital firm Redstone VC in collaboration with the Finnish Defence Forces as well as leading companies and research institutions in the field. The program connects leading players focused on the development and scaling of defence, security and dual-use technologies.

Donut Defence is transforming military mobility with its groundbreaking modular electric vehicle technologies. The Donut Motor, a powerhouse that boasts unparalleled payload capacity driven by exceptional power and torque density, is a prime example of the company’s innovative approach. The DEFINE Accelerator offers Donut Defence an excellent opportunity to deepen its ties with key industry players and strengthen its position as a global innovator.

“We are honored to join the DEFINE Accelerator program, providing us with a unique opportunity to introduce the game-changing performance of the Donut Motor and further develop our EV technologies. We look forward to building new partnerships to support our growth and help us meet the evolving needs of the defence industry. This selection reinforces our belief in the importance of our disruptive technology and boosts confidence among industry players,” says Michael Waksman, CEO of Donut Defence.

Alongside Donut Defence, several international companies from Finland, Germany and Denmark have been selected for the DEFINE Accelerator program. These companies bring a diverse range of defence security technologies to the table, such as unmanned aerial systems, UAV charging stations, counter-UAV, robotics, energy storage, quantum processors and non-toxic decontamination.

“DEFINE was created to accelerate ecosystem development among NATO countries. Our program helps startups grow rapidly by connecting them with end-users and providing valuable feedback. In addition to standard accelerator criteria—such as team strength, scalability, and innovation—we prioritize startups that bring meaningful solutions to enhance Finland’s and Europe’s security of supply. We also assess how well the Finnish Defence Forces and other security end-users can adopt these solutions. Donut Defence stood out as an easy choice for our second batch. They manufacture the world’s most powerful electric motor, have a highly experienced international team, offer a solution that is easy to adopt and possesses a business model that can scale exceptionally fast,” says The Head of the DEFINE Accelerator program, Director of Technology and Innovation at the City of Riihimäki, Teemu Seppälä.

The DEFINE Accelerator kicks off today with an event in Riihimäki, Finland.

Read more:

Donut Defence

DEFINE Accelerator

Youtube

Enforce Tac 25 – SAND-X Dual Operating Vehicle

Tuesday, March 4th, 2025

The SAND-X Dual Operating Vehicle (DOV) is a product of EISELIN Landsystems, a German company. It has been in active service with various units since 2008 and can be used in a manned configuration or operated as an Unmanned Ground System in a variety of roles. It can be switched between modes in seconds and controlled via mesh network extenders.

Thanks to its combination of wide-set forward wheels and tracked rear drive, it offers a low clean enter of gravity and will negotiate roads just as well as on soft substrates like sand and snow.

Here is a list of missions the SAND-X is currently used for:

1. Unmanned Attack: Equipped with advanced weaponry and autonomous capabilities, the SAND-X DOV executes precision strikes on enemy targets while minimizing risk to personnel.

2. ISNR (Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance): Conducting manned and unmanned reconnaissance missions, the SAND-X DOV gathers crucial intelligence for strategic planning using state-of-the-art sensors and surveillance equipment.

3. CASEVAC (Casualty Evacuation): Facilitating rapid evacuation of injured personnel from the battlefield to medical facilities, the SAND-X DOV ensures timely medical care with its manned and unmanned capabilities, supported by its rugged design and medical support infrastructure.

4. Resupply: Serving as a reliable logistics platform, the SAND-X DOV transports essential supplies and equipment to forward operating bases, bolstering frontline operations and sustaining combat effectiveness with manned and unmanned operations.

5. Mesh Network Creation: Establishing robust mesh networks, the SAND-X DOV enables seamless communication and coordination between deployed units in remote and hostile environments, leveraging its manned and unmanned communication capabilities.

6. Fighting Vehicle/Combat Vehicle: Transforming into a formidable combat vehicle, the SAND-X DOV engages hostile forces and provides fire support to friendly units, configured with armaments and defensive systems, whether manned or unmanned.

7. Minefield Detection and Crossing: Detecting and navigating through minefields, the SAND-X DOV ensures safe passage for troops and vehicles during urgent missions with its manned and unmanned capabilities, utilizing advanced sensors and unmanned operation.

www.sand-x.com

Ermine – Rheinmetall’s New Lightweight Hybrid Vehicle Family for Modern Armed Forces

Tuesday, March 4th, 2025

Rheinmetall is showing its tactical small vehicle family Ermine for the first time at the Enforce Tac. It represents a new generation of tactical mobility, combining tactical transport with a mobile energy source (microgrid). Operational creativity is at the core Ermine’s design. Its features enable it to act as an effective force multiplier. Ermine can operate remotely controlled and is prepared for autonomy.

The modular Ermine family currently consists of an Unmanned Ground Vehicle (UGV), a side-by-side buggy and a quad. Various 4×4 and 6×6 variants are available. All vehicles are based on the same diesel-electric hybrid drivetrain and base platform. This gives Ermine maximum modularity with unrivalled agility. Thanks to the hybrid technology, up to one ton of payload, a range of more than 1,000 kilometres and a top speed of 90 km/h are possible, depending on the vehicle’s configuration. Up to four Ermine vehicles can be transported by cargo helicopters such as the CH-47 or CH-53.

The Ermine vehicles can be configured for various purposes, including reconnaissance & liaison, special operations, anti-tank, weapon carriers,
MedEvac or generator function. At Enforce Tac 2025, Rheinmetall showcased a 4×4 quad with the ROSY smoke/obscurant system and special operation forces equipment. One element is the Mobile Mission Pod (MMP, which also made its debut at Enforce Tac.)

The MMP is designed to conduct standoff reconnaissance and engage enemy forces using small UAVs. Developed primarily for special operations forces, it enables maximum effectiveness behind enemy lines. Thanks to its long standby time and remote operability in conjunction with artificial intelligence (AI), the MMP is designed to be able to operate against enemy forces long after it has been deployed to the battlefield. The MMP combines the expertise of existing products as well as current technologies and experiences from current conflicts in a new product that is outstanding in its capabilities. Thanks to its high degree of automation, AI support and standalone design, it significantly expands the mission portfolio of armed forces, enabling missions that were previously considered impossible.

The Ermine vehicles are furthermore characterised by high mobility in almost any terrain and can also be driven completely silent thanks to their electric drive. If the vehicles are not used for tactical mobility, they can be used as a mobile energy source. The Ermine family can therefore significantly increase the operational value of armed forces.

The Ermine technology was developed in the Netherlands by the start-up company REEQ – a subsidiary of Rheinmetall Defence Nederland B.V. since March 2024 – and is being produced there. The acquisition of REEQ enables Rheinmetall to serve the Dutch and European market in the field of light tactical mobility, both manned and unmanned, in combination with a microgrid – and with short delivery times. Thereby Rheinmetall’s industrial strength and the innovative power of a start-up complement each other. Within the Rheinmetall Group, REEQ retains its status as a start-up in the field of development. The further development and serial production of these vehicles will also take place in the Netherlands.