The US Marine Corps awarded BAE Systems an $88 million contract to build several ACV-30 test armored vehicles. These machines will undergo a series of tests, after which a decision will be made on the possibility of mass production.
The ACV-30 is fitted with a Kongsberg-designed RT-20 stabilized remote controlled weapon station with a 30mm automatic cannon. An outrigger turret provides more room to transport troops or essential equipment, and reduces vehicle weight for better mobility.
The ACV-30 is one of four variants of the ACV family of vehicles. BAE Systems has also been awarded a contract to supply a personnel transport vehicle (ACV-P), a command vehicle (ACV-C) and an evacuation version (ACV-R).
The eight-wheeled armored personnel carrier ACV from BAE Systems was created on the basis of the Italian armored personnel carrier Iveco SuperAV. Compared to the AAV, the new ACV is more maneuverable and mobile, and also has mine protection. It is equipped with a 690 hp six-cylinder engine that allows it to reach speeds in excess of 55 miles per hour (88 km/h) on land. In addition, the ACV can float.
The US Marine Corps has selected BAE Systems as the contractor for the supply of ACV armored vehicles in 2018. Completion of testing of a new family of transporters is expected in 2023.
Source: BAE Systems