Textron Systems has recently been awarded an amendment to the delivery of the fully integrated prototype vehicle platform and system integration lab that will shape the future of the US Marine Corps’ (USMC) ARV (Advanced Reconnaissance Vehicle) program. This amendment aims to enhance both the C4 (Command, Control, Communications, and Computers) and automotive systems of the ARV, by increasing requirements maturity and improving overall vehicle system performance through enhanced reliability. The effort is expected to complete in 2025. One of the key aspects of this amendment is the incorporation of improved battle software that will help both define and refine the program requirements.
This upgraded software will enhance ARV’s operational capabilities and ensuring optimal performance in a variety of mission scenarios. Textron Systems’ advanced software solutions offered in the Cottonmouth™ will support the Marines as they evaluate future operations. As Textron Systems continues to push the boundaries of innovation, the development of improved battle software and the integration of advanced C4 and automotive systems will undoubtedly strengthen the USMC’s ARV program, positioning them to excel on future battlefields. With the amendment, Textron Systems will continue purpose-built ARV development efforts into 2025.
Textron Systems Corporation, a Textron Inc. company, announced the delivery of Cottonmouth, a vehicle purpose-built for the U.S. Marine Corps’ Advanced Reconnaissance Vehicle (ARV) program. The hand-off of the prototype vehicle occurred 01 Dec 2022 at the Nevada Automotive Test Center (NATC) in Silver Springs, NV. The Cottonmouth Advanced Reconnaissance Vehicle ’s smaller footprint allows rapid transport of four vehicles on a Ship-to-Shore Connector (LCAC-100). Supporting the mission of a mobile scout vehicle, the easy-to-deploy platform swims in open ocean and navigates littoral water obstacles such as bays, estuaries, rivers, light surf and handles any terrain.
A multi-domain command and control suite integrated into the vehicle as part of the C4UAS Mission Role Variant allows it to coordinate data and serve as the quarterback, or battlefield manager, for the modern battlefield. Created to serve as a Naval Sensor Node supporting expeditionary operations, the Cottonmouth vehicle provides lightweight multi-modal capability for the Marines, consistent with the service’s Force Design 2030 vision. The amphibious 6×6 platform is equipped for sustained reconnaissance with organic unmanned systems capabilities and multi-spectrum sensors which provide seamless communication between the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps.
