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Archive for the ‘Mobility’ Category

Bale Defence – RTV6

Tuesday, May 27th, 2025

The RTV6 by Bale Defence was displayed in the Australia pavilion at SOF Week and is the latest in their Rough Terrain Vehicle line.

Sporting six wheels, it offers a 1.4:1 payload ration meaning that this 1.1 ton vehicle will carry a 1.5 ton payload.

Specs:

  • Top Speed: 108km/h (67mph)
  • ??Range: 320km (std fuel tank) (200 miles)
  • ??Fording: 750mm (30in)
  • ??Ground Clearance: 340mm (13.4in)
  • ??Winch: Relocatable Front & Rear

The rear deck will accept modular mission kits. In the photo above it’s mounted with an FN Remote Weapon Station.

Available via www.baledefence.com. Their US partner is www.inter2t.com.

Mack Defense Wins Prototype Phase of Medium Tactical Truck (MTT) Development for U.S. Marine Corps

Tuesday, May 20th, 2025

ALLENTOWN, PA (May 19, 2025) – Following the initial development contract awarded last year, Mack Defense today announced they won the contract to produce two prototype vehicles for the next phase in the Medium Tactical Truck (MTT) program with the U.S. Marine Corps. The new family of vehicles will replace the Marine Corps’ Medium Tactical Vehicle Replacement fleet (MTVR), which includes cargo, dump, wrecker, tractor and re-supply trucks supporting air-ground task force combat support missions.

The Marine Corps’ initial development requirements for the MTT fleet focused on cargo variants consisting of 10-, 15- and 20-foot cargo bed configurations with hybrid-electric technology for reduced fuel consumption, extended range and reduced noise for silent watch capabilities. A 70% off-road and 30% on-road mission profile will be supported by a 60-inch fording capability to traverse through deep water typically encountered during Marine Corps missions.

The prototype phase includes the development of two variants: a 4×4 configuration featuring a 10-foot cargo bed and a 6×6 configuration with a 20-foot cargo bed. The trucks share DNA with the Mack® Granite® but are specially designed to meet the specific requirements of the U.S. Marine Corps. The MTT prototypes incorporate significant technological advancements in driver safety and operational capability. These include advanced driver assistance features such as collision avoidance, blind-spot detection and vehicle dynamic control systems incorporating enhanced traction control and anti-lock brakes. The vehicles also feature hybrid-electric technology delivering improved fuel efficiency while enabling critical tactical advantages such as silent watch capabilities using extensive onboard power storage and generation and exportable power for other military systems.

“These prototypes represent the next generation of purpose-built, specialty vehicles for the Marine Corps,” said David Hartzell, president of Mack Defense. “By leveraging our commercial vehicle technology expertise and adapting it for military applications, we’re delivering a highly capable platform that can perform in the most challenging terrains, while incorporating advanced safety features and hybrid propulsion systems that meet the Marine Corps’ rigorous mission requirements.”

The MTT program emphasizes enhanced off-road mobility with vehicles designed for cross-country operation while maintaining optimal weight for improved fuel efficiency and payload capacity. The purpose-built design incorporates an open systems architecture that enables future autonomous capabilities and technology integration.

Construction of the prototypes will begin in the second half of 2025, with completion targeted for early fall. Following assembly, the vehicles will undergo comprehensive contractor performance testing at the Nevada Automotive Test Center (NATC) in the first half of 2026 before delivery to the Marine Corps.

Following the initial development contract awarded last year, Mack Defense today announced the production of two prototype vehicles for the next phase in the Medium Tactical Truck (MTT) program with the U.S. Marine Corps.

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.

INKAS Powers Into 2025 with All-New Armored Cadillac Escalade!

Wednesday, May 14th, 2025

INKAS® Armored Vehicle Manufacturing is proud to introduce the highly anticipated 2025 Armored Cadillac Escalade — the latest generation of its most iconic and sought-after luxury SUV. Armored with BR6-level protection to stop up to 7.62mm assault rifle ammunition, detonated grenades beneath the vehicle and other life-threatening dangers. The armored Escalade is designed for individuals who find themselves in high-risk situations, government officials, executives, and those who need extra family protection.

As global security continues to be on the rise, the 2025 Armored Cadillac Escalade delivers a serene experience with the feeling of plush leather and peace of mind. The interior includes a generous capacity to seat up to 7 passengers while giving each person room to extend. With no impact on OEM features, this vehicle disguises itself among others yet prevails when it matters the most.

The 2025 armored Escalade delivers both pristine luxury and performance when driving on city streets and rugged terrain. Featuring both a bold and commanding exterior with a seamless modern interior to encapsulate a brand that continues to be an absolute icon.

Armored Protection with Premium Craftsmanship

The INKAS® 2025 Armored Cadillac Escalade is engineered to withstand a plethora of threats with certified ballistic systems and features that create a gapless realm of protection, which ensures no vulnerable points are exposed or accessible.

Complete perimeter armoring, including roof, ceiling, and floor.

Overlap system protection to all door seams and critical joints.

Military-grade multi-layer ballistic glass on all windows.

Reinforced suspension and braking components.

Runflat system in all tires to extend journey distance.

Optional features such as sirens, night vision cameras, escape hatches, and more.

Despite the extensive armoring, INKAS® preserves the Escalade’s luxurious OEM factory finishes and user experience — including ambient lighting, massaging seats, and a high-end sound system.

“GM models sell, but the Cadillac Escalade is a fan favorite for sure. We deliver armored vehicles that meet the needs of our most discerning clients without compromising the original designs.” Arthur Yurovitsky, Vice President, INKAS® Armored Vehicle Manufacturing

2025 GM Lineup Now Available

Alongside the launch of the armored Escalade, INKAS® has officially upgraded all their GM SUVs to the 2025 model year, which includes:

2025 Chevrolet Suburban
2025 GMC Yukon Denali
2025 Chevrolet Tahoe

Each vehicle receives meticulous attention to detail, integration of ballistic protection, and customization options upon request, making the 2025 GM fleet one of the most secure and versatile lineups on the market today.

Global Reach, Personalized Solutions

INKAS® Armored vehicles are fully customizable to suit specific mission requirements or lifestyle preferences. Whether the vehicle is deployed in a volatile region or used discreetly for urban transport, INKAS® ensures reliability, comfort, and safety from any angle. With global reach, the company serves high-profile clients across North America, Latin America, Africa, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East.

inkasarmored.com

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