The U.S. Army Operational Test Command’s Airborne and Special Operations Test Directorate (ABNSOTD) recently conducted the final airdrop test of the Oshkosh® Defense FMTV A2 Cargo 6×6 Low-Velocity Airdrop (LVAD). The airdrops, which took place at Fort Liberty in North Carolina, mark a key milestone for the FMTV A2 LVAD program. The tests validated the design and capabilities of the Cargo 6×6 LVAD to ensure its suitability for the stringent demands of airdrop and follow-on operations. Developed to address the challenges of an aging medium LVAD fleet, the three Oshkosh Defense FMTV A2 LVAD variants, the Cargo 6×6, Cargo 4×4, and Dump Truck 6×6, are each engineered to fulfill a critical need for the Airborne community. Since testing began, the prototypes have successfully completed Rollover Protection Structures (ROPS), RIGEX (Rigging Exercises), Roller Loading, and Simulated Airdrop Impact Testing (SAIT).
“We are extremely pleased with the results of the FMTV A2 LVAD airdrop tests,” stated Pat Williams, chief programs officer at Oshkosh Defense. “This is an integral step in delivering the FMTV A2 LVAD capability that underscores our commitment to partnering with the U.S. Army to deliver mission-critical tactical vehicles that meet the needs of the modern battlefield.”
The FMTV A2 Cargo 6×6 LVAD successfully demonstrated its ability to withstand the rigors of an airdrop, maintain structural integrity upon landing and complete the post-drop road maneuvers. In 2023, the Cargo 6×6 LVAD prototype completed Rollover Protection Structures (ROPS), RIGEX (Rigging Exercises), Roller Loading, and Simulated Airdrop Impact Testing (SAIT). The Cargo 4×4 and Dump Truck LVAD variants will undergo similar testing in 2024. The FMTV A2 LVAD offers the performance and protection of the FMTV A2 with critical additions including a folding cab that allows the vehicle height to be reduced to 90”, a chassis designed specifically for parachute drop and landing, and the addition of a winch to all LVAD variants. The FMTV is derived from the Austrian Steyr 12M18 truck, but substantially modified to meet United States Army requirements, these including a minimum 50 percent U.S. content.
Oshkosh Defense is a global leader in the design, production and sustainment of best-in-class military vehicles, technology solutions and mobility systems. Oshkosh develops and applies emerging technologies that advance safety and mission success. Setting the industry standard for sustaining fleet readiness, Oshkosh ensures every solution is supported worldwide throughout its entire life cycle.?Oshkosh Defense, LLC is an Oshkosh Corporation company. ?Headquartered in Wisconsin, Oshkosh Corporation employs approximately 17,000 team members worldwide, all united behind a common purpose: to make a difference in people’s lives. Oshkosh products can be found in more than 150 countries under the brands of JLG®, Hinowa, Power Towers, Pierce®, MAXIMETAL, Oshkosh® Defense, McNeilus®, IMT®, Jerr-Dan®, Frontline™ Communications, Oshkosh® Airport Products, JBT AeroTech and Pratt Miller.
