Mack Defense has partnered with JWF Defense Systems to assemble the Lakota 6×6 vehicle system. The Lakota is a new family of 6×6 medium armoured vehicles offering high level of performance in terms of mobility, protection and payload. The vehicle is similar to the French VAB Mk3 but motorized with a US-built engine Caterpillar C7 coupled to a 6-speed automatic transmission Allison 3500.
The Lakota 6×6 system is capable of a maximum on-road speed of 62 miles per hour with a range of up to 1,400 miles. It is available in five configurations and can transport up to 12 personnel. The vehicle is designed to be fully armored and lighter weight for better maneuverability, off-road mobility and multi-mission capabilities. the Lakota offers the protection of a mine-resistant ambush protected (MRAP) vehicle, but has superior off-road mobility and increased multi-mission capabilities because if its unique design and lighter weight.
Designed to meet the needs of a variety of missions, the vehicle’s capabilities were tested in multiple locations throughout the US including California, North Carolina, Pennsylvania and Michigan. At AUSA 2016, the Association of United States Army Exhibition and Conference which takes place in Washington D.C., the American Company MACK Defense announce the first delivery of its Lakota 6×6 armoured personnel carrier without disclosing the customer.
The VAB Mk 3 6×6 was originally developed as a private venture and a follow-on to the original VAB, which was developed for the French Army. The French received almost 4,000 4×4 versions, and additional vehicles were built for export in 6×6 and 4×4 configurations. The United States’ Mack Defense (part of the Volvo Group that also owns Renault Trucks) won the first export contract for the VAB Mk 3 6×6, which they call the Lakota, and this has US sub-systems
