Oshkosh Defense has announced the completion of the final airdrop test of its Family of Medium Tactical Vehicles (FMTV) A2 Cargo 6×6 Low-Velocity Airdrop (LVAD).
The test was conducted by the US Army Operational Test Command's Airborne and Special Operations Test Directorate (ABNSOTD) at Fort Liberty in North Carolina, US.
It marks a significant milestone for the US Army’s FMTV A2 LVAD programme, confirming the vehicle's readiness for airdrop and subsequent operations.
The latest series of tests at Fort Liberty helped in validating the design as well as operational capabilities of the Cargo 6×6 LVAD, ensuring that the vehicle meets the “stringent demands” required for airdrop operations and follow on missions.
The vehicle had previously shown its ability to endure the stresses of an airdrop, maintain structural integrity upon impact and perform post-drop road manoeuvres successfully.
Last year, the Cargo 6×6 LVAD prototype underwent extensive testing including rollover protection structures, rigging exercises, roller loading and simulated airdrop impact testing.
Oshkosh said that the US Army will continue to expand its testing efforts for this programme to further include the Cargo 4×4 and Dump Truck LVAD variants, which are poised to undergo similar testing later this year.
Oshkosh Defense chief programmes officer Pat Williams said: “We are extremely pleased with the results of the FMTV A2 LVAD airdrop tests.
“This is an integral step in delivering the FMTV A2 LVAD capability that underscores our commitment to partnering with the US Army to deliver mission-critical tactical vehicles that meet the needs of the modern battlefield.”
The FMTV A2 vehicles, which are known for reliability in transporting troops and supplies, help ground forces keep pace with evolving mission requirements.
They offer enhanced troop protection, increased payload capacity, and improved mobility and ride quality.
The three FMTV A2 LVAD variants, including the Cargo 6×6, Cargo 4×4, as well as the Dump Truck 6×6, have been developed to upgrade the medium LVAD fleet.
In August of the previous year, Oshkosh Defense delivered additional FMTV A2 vehicles to the US Army as part of a $201m contract, further bolstering the Army's operational capabilities.
