Sponsored by TEK Military Seating Limited
http://www.tekmilitaryseating.co.uk/
——————————————————————————————————————–
11 Mar 26. At LogNet 11 March 2026 – 2026 in Koblenz, Quantum Systems introduced its MOSAIC Ground Autonomy Kit and announces an official partnership with Daimler Trucks for unmanned military logistics operations
Koblenz,The newly announced partnership combines Quantum Systems’ operationally validated autonomy and teleoperation expertise with Daimler Truck’s proven vehicle platforms and industrial integration capabilities. The objective is to deliver scalable, interoperable logistics solutions for modern military operations.
Quantum Systems’ MOSAIC Ground Autonomy Kit will enable automated and teleoperated driving functions, and integrate into the MOSAIC UXS software suite, which orchestrates manned and unmanned systems within existing command-and-control structures through a single interface. Daimler Truck provides the base vehicle platforms and supports the integration of Quantum Systems’ MOSAIC Ground Autonomy Kit into military truck architectures.
“Autonomy in military logistics is about multiplying operational capability for modern armed forces,” said Hendrik Kramer, Vice President Ground Domain at Quantum Systems. “By combining proven vehicle platforms with our operationally validated Autonomy Kit, we are enabling armed forces to move supplies in contested environments with fewer personnel, greater resilience, and full integration into existing command structures.”
Introducing the MOSAIC Ground Autonomy Kit
The Quantum Systems MOSAIC Ground Autonomy Kit follows a clear but always ambitious roadmap of what is technically feasible, as leader-follower operations, in which one driven vehicle guides multiple unmanned trucks. This first step in the direction of autonomous trucking addresses personnel shortages while increasing logistical throughput. Additionally, the MOSAIC Ground Autonomy Kit already allows teleoperated driving, allowing vehicles to operate in high-risk zones while personnel remain at a safe distance. The focus is not automation for its own sake, but on operational relevance and the protection of human life in contested environments, enabled by a robust sensor and software architecture.
Designed as a platform-based solution, the MOSAIC Ground Autonomy Kit can be integrated into diverse vehicle fleets and is not limited to a single manufacturer. Its retrofit capability enables scalable deployment across existing platforms, allowing armed forces to incrementally introduce autonomous functions into their logistics operations.
Strengthening European Technological Sovereignty
Beyond its technological dimension, the partnership carries strategic significance for Germany and Europe. By combining a European vehicle platform with European autonomy expertise, the collaboration strengthens key competencies in autonomy, unmanned systems, and AI within Europe while reducing technological dependencies, and supports the development of resilient, sovereign supply chains for security-critical capabilities.
Daniel Zittel, Head of Defence Sales, Daimler Truck AG: “By integrating our vehicles into MOSAIC, we will be able to seamlessly connect them with other ground-based systems and unmanned aerial systems in the future. We are continuing to develop our trucks into semi-autonomous and unmanned vehicle platforms.”
With the launch of the MOSAIC Ground Autonomy Kit, Quantum Systems further positions itself as a system integrator in the unmanned ground domain, extending its autonomy expertise beyond aerial systems and reinforcing its industrial depth through cooperation with established European manufacturers. The partnership reflects a shared commitment to delivering practical, scalable solutions that respond to the evolving logistical and operational realities of modern armed forces.
11 Mar 26. Texelis Defense is stepping up its efforts in 2026 and strengthening its position as a leading specialist in military mobility. 2026 is set to be a year of accelerated progress across all programs for Texelis Defense. This includes accelerated development for Serval programs with the first export contracts for this vehicle, and accelerated progress on the Celeris, which now features three different vehicles built on this next-generation mobility solution.
2026 is also a year of major firsts, with Texelis’s debut in the world of tracked vehicles, as well as the launch of an 8×8 mobility offering based on the Celeris 4×4 and Celeris 6×6 models.
The year 2026 follows a record-breaking 2025, marked by the successful split of Texelis into two entities: Texelis Defense and Texelis Transport, both leaders in their respective fields: military mobility and public passenger transport.
The Serval at the heart of France’s Scorpion program… and now for export
Texelis Defense is set to benefit from orders for the Serval vehicle as provided for in France’s Military Programming Law (LPM). This law calls for a total of 2,038 vehicles by 2035, including 1,405 by 2030, with a gradual acceleration of deliveries in 2026.
As a reminder, Texelis Defense is responsible for the entire mobility system of the Serval vehicle. This mobility system, developed and manufactured in Limoges by Texelis Defense, is assembled in Roanne by KNDS France with the support of a team of Texelis technical experts; the two companies form the VBMR Léger joint venture.
Texelis Defense, a specialist in military mobility, from wheels to tracks
2026 is also set to mark Texelis Defense’s grand debut in the world of tracked mobility with the development of the TED (Track Electrified Drivetrain). Designed to serve as the core mobility system for Milrem Robotics’ VECTOR, a versatile 20-ton-class tracked vehicle, the TED will be available for a wide range of applications.
Arguably the most promising autonomous vehicle in the world, the VECTOR is suited for both close-quarters combat applications (cavalry, operating autonomously or in support of main battle tanks, infantry support alongside IFVs) and support roles (systems carrier, logistics, transport).
Celeris: From 4×4 to 8×8
2026 will also mark Texelis Defense’s expansion into the 8×8 market. Drawing on its experience with the Terrex (Singapore), ACV 1.1 (United States), and Lazar 3 (Serbia), Texelis Defense is simultaneously developing three different 8×8 vehicle platforms for various customers and applications. Texelis Defense aims to position itself in 2026 as a leading supplier of 8×8 vehicle platforms, following the same model as for Celeris 4×4.
2026 will also be a pivotal year for Celeris 4×4, with the commercial development of existing vehicles (the P2 Tiger for Indonesia’s PT SSE, the M1 for Canada’s INKAS) as well as the upcoming launch at Eurosatory of a new vehicle built by a manufacturer in Northern Europe: the SCATA Mk1, unveiled last week in Helsinki.
Texelis Defense’s ambition is therefore to eventually offer a complete Celeris range for 4×4, 6×6, and 8×8 vehicles, enabling the rapid development and local production of new ranges of high-mobility NATO vehicles.
By combining pre-developed and qualified components, adapting proven architectures, and employing agile co-development, Texelis Defense offers a new level of highly advanced customization with significantly reduced lead times, while maintaining full local production capabilities by design.
Compared to other existing solutions, Texelis Defense stands out for its in-house expertise across all areas of mobility and the use of components specifically developed for military applications.
With these various ongoing and upcoming programs, Texelis Defense reaffirms its position as a 360° military mobility specialist, with the capability to operate in both wheeled and tracked vehicle systems.
A firm believer in partnerships, Texelis Defense wishes to be a true enabler for Defense companies, whether they are already well-established and reputable companies, or startups aiming to become leading players in land Defense. Texelis Defense is the right partner to ensure the swift development and launch of new armored platforms locally, from the very first vehicle and with a guarantee of success, as already proven on three different continents with repeatable results.
2025: Another Record Year for Texelis
With revenue of €110 million, Texelis achieved another record year in 2025.
NOTA: This figure includes both Texelis business units, Transport and Defense, as of 2025, as the spin-off did not take effect until January 1, 2026.
These results are attributable to the high level of orders secured by both business units in 2025, both in France and internationally.
Defense Driven by Serval… and Exports
In 2025, defense revenue was driven by Serval order volumes (208), and bolstered by the first Celeris 4x4s (a solution for creating high-performance armored vehicle production capabilities based on Texelis Defense mobility platforms).
The year 2025 was thus marked by the launch of the Indonesian P2 Tiger by the private company PT SSE, a new benchmark in the field of multi-role armored vehicles in Southeast Asia, as well as by the commercial launch of the M1 by INKAS (Canada) at defense trade shows. 2025 was also marked by the signing of a new Celeris partnership with the Finnish company SCATA, whose first vehicle, the Mk1, will be unveiled at Eurosatory 2026.
All three are built on the Celeris platform, and these next-generation vehicles embody Texelis Defense’s global approach: partnerships, speed, flexibility, and operational excellence.
2025 also marks Texelis Defense’s first foray into tracked vehicles with initial work on the TED (Tank Electrified Drivetrain), which will provide the mobility function for the VECTOR autonomous tracked vehicle from the international robotics leader, Milrem Robotics.
Also in the export market, Texelis has received significant orders from long-standing customers such as Sisu (Finland) and Yugoimport (Serbia) for mobility subsystems.
Texelis Defense is proud to have once again played a key role this year in Finland and Sweden’s efforts to strengthen their armored vehicle fleets. By supporting the ramp-up of production for Sisu’s GTP light armored vehicle for these two new NATO member countries, Texelis Defense has made a concrete contribution to conventional deterrence efforts in Northern Europe and to strengthening ties within the European defense community.
This major program for Northern Europe underscores the importance of industrial cooperation in international diplomatic policy. In today’s complex international context, Texelis Defense represents a significant asset for Europe and its defense industry.
11 Mar 26. Strategic cooperation: Rheinmetall and Nooteboom Trailers B.V. mutually develop and market military heavy equipment trailers. Technology group Rheinmetall and Dutch manufacturer of special transport solutions Nooteboom Trailers B.V. have signed a cooperation paper to develop and distribute military Heavy Equipment Trailer (HET) solutions. This cooperation encompasses the mutual development, industrialisation, and marketing of these systems.
The partnership is a reaction to the significantly increasing demand for military off-road heavy transport solutions in Europe. The increase is related to the growing operational use of heavy wheeled and tracked vehicles, as well as large-scale NATO procurement programmes for battle tanks, infantry fighting vehicles, and self-propelled howitzers. This collaboration will reinforce the position of both companies in the field of military mobility, contributing to a more resilient and competitive European defence industry.
Key strength of the partnership is the complementary nature of the partners’ expertise. Nooteboom Trailers B.V. is one of Europe’s leading manufacturers of civil special transport solutions. It has decades of experience in designing, producing and maintaining special trailers for payloads of up to 200 tonnes and has an excellent reputation among logistics specialists and special transport companies.
Rheinmetall will contribute with its proven expertise in manufacturing military vehicles, cost-efficient industrial capacities, and international market access as part of a leading global defence group. Nooteboom accelerates through collaboration with Rheinmetall to further expand its advanced technologies and expertise in special transport solutions, laying the foundation for more innovative developments in both military and civil transport solutions.
The joint solution combines Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles’ highly mobile tractors with a fitting trailer system, enabling Rheinmetall to provide comprehensive, vertically integrated HET solutions. The integrated HET system is designed to transport heavy tracked and wheeled vehicles, including recovery and armoured engineer vehicles.
Rheinmetall AG is an integrated technology group, with its headquarters in Düsseldorf. Founded in 1889, it is a leading international systems house for the defence industry and operates within land, air, sea and space domains. A focus on sustainability is an integral part of Rheinmetall’s strategy. With around 33,000 employees at about 180 sites worldwide, the company has been listed on the DAX 40 since March 2023 and generated sales of €9.9 billion in the 2025 financial year.
Nooteboom Trailers B.V. is an international family-owned company and a specialist in total solutions for exceptional road transport. Founded in 1881 and headquartered in Wijchen, the Netherlands, the company is now led by its fifth generation. With more than 500 employees, two production facilities, and an extensive in-house sales organization across Europe, Nooteboom is firmly established on an international level. Through continuous investment in innovation, the company holds numerous patents for groundbreaking technologies that set industry standards in safety, efficiency, and reliability within the field of exceptional transport.
17 Mar 26. Texelis Defense and the Finnish company SCATA announced today the launch of a new 18-ton class multi-purpose tactical vehicle, the SCATA MK1. Positioned between light tactical vehicles with a maximum gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 14 tons and heavier 6×6 or 8×8 armored platforms, the SCATA MK1 combines protection, payload capacity, mobility, and modularity.
Based on Texelis Defense’s Celeris mobility solution, this multi-role armored vehicle is designed to meet the demands of modern warfare. Building on industrial development initially led by France, this program enables the establishment of new sovereign production capacity in Finland, while mobilizing the local industrial ecosystem.
Developed in less than a year and soon to be unveiled at Eurosatory 2026 in Paris, it symbolizes the agility and responsiveness of new players on a European scale, capable of developing operational solutions in a short timeframe by pragmatically building upon elements that have already been developed, tested, and qualified, at a time when Europe is seeking to strengthen its defense industrial capabilities.
Features and Variants
The SCATA MK1 is a versatile vehicle with a gross vehicle weight (GVW) of 18 tons, designed to handle a wide range of missions. Planned variants include:
- Troop Transport (APC)
- Special Forces
- Reconnaissance
- Counter-Drone (LAD/C-UAV)
- Short-Range Surface-to-Air Defense (SHORAD)
These high-value variants are particularly well-suited to the high mobility and payload capacity offered by the Celeris platform.
The Mk1’s architecture draws on recent lessons from modern conflicts, notably the war in Ukraine, where battlefields are characterized by:
- A significant breakdown of established routes, with an increased need for cross-country mobility;
- A high tempo of operations, requiring maximum Operational Technical Readiness (OTR) and the highest possible maintainability;
- Intensive use of drones;
- Landmines;
- An increased need for operational modularity.
Celeris: A Capability Multiplier
The vehicle is built on Celeris, Texelis Defense’s NATO tactical vehicle co-development platform. This platform is based on a military-specific mobility system developed by Texelis Defense and already deployed in hundreds of vehicles worldwide, with significant operational feedback; Celeris is designed for the most demanding environments. It incorporates exclusively military components, developed or selected, specified, adapted, tested, and proven by Texelis Defense over the course of a multi-year development process.
Technically, Celeris incorporates:
- T750 axles with independent suspension, manufactured by Texelis Defense, enabling a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 18.5 tons and exceptional off-road vehicle dynamics;
- The rear axle features a pull-arm design, which allows for easier integration into the armored body, more interior space in the rear of the vehicle, and improved structural protection;
- These T750 axles are paired with the latest-generation Michelin XZL tires and CTIS (tire inflation pressure control systems), enabling optimized performance on soft terrain such as sand or mud.
- A complete powertrain built around a 9L Euro 3 (Cummins) engine producing 375 horsepower, paired with an Allison transmission and a PowerLine transfer case.
- An electrical and electronic architecture specially developed by Texelis Defense to meet SCATA’s requirements.
Texelis Defense’s production of these various components is inherently designed for integration at a partner’s industrial site.
Celeris goes far beyond components. It represents a true collaborative vehicle development approach, which means that all aspects of the MK1 related to mobility—or having an impact on it—were taken into account and optimized prior to the program’s launch.
For example, the MK1 features a longer wheelbase compared to other vehicles in the Celeris family. It also has its own maintenance and support system, developed specifically for it by Texelis Defense to ensure maximum DTO and enable true autonomy in maintenance.
Like all vehicles built on this mobility platform, it is part of the Celeris Club, which means it benefits from decades of maintenance tracking and obsolescence management, unlike the civilian platforms used by other vehicles. Celeris Club users also have access to all developments made for other members, enabling beneficial exchanges and optimization of the various fleets in service.
The MK1 is the fourth vehicle to use the Celeris mobility platform, following the Serval (France, Belgium as part of the CaMo program), the M1 from INKAS (Canada), and the P2 Tiger from PT SSE (Indonesia).
The SCATA MK1 will make its world debut at the 2026 Eurosatory exhibition in Paris, one of the leading international defense events. Orders will officially open at that time.
A Landmark Partnership on a European Scale
The MK1 marks the first collaboration of this scale between French and Finnish companies, as well as the first industrial development project in Europe based on this platform since the Serval.
Completed in less than a year, this development demonstrates Europe’s ability to rapidly design high-performance solutions by leveraging existing expertise wherever it is available and combining the capabilities of different nations.
This project is part of a fundamental European industrial dynamic aimed at strengthening the resilience of defense production chains. It serves as a symbol of how the European defense industry can be built: with speed and efficiency, by combining solutions that have already been developed and proven.
This pragmatic approach allows for the use of high-level developments already led by European NATO member states to enable the extremely rapid development of comprehensive, proven operational capabilities that offer a high degree of commonality with other European or NATO fleets, thereby multiplying production capabilities at a time when Europe is constrained by its own limitations in this area.
This industrial approach explains why the development of SCATA’s MK1 took only one year, just like the other vehicles built using the Celeris platform, whereas the typical lead-time for a standard, off-the-shelf vehicle is closer to 18 months.
This partnership-based approach also opens the door to complementary partnerships with other French, Finnish, or more broadly European manufacturers interested in joining this project.
About SCATA
SCATA (Sophisticated Combat Automotive & Technical Assembly) is a Finnish defense company based in Jakobstad, in the Ostrobothnia region of Finland. It develops and manufactures armored vehicles.
SCATA draws on Finnish engineering expertise, as well as industrial welding capabilities recognized throughout Europe and a production base that can be mobilized at short notice to ramp up production as needed. These Finnish industrial partners are capable of producing armored hulls, electrical systems, and wiring harnesses.
11 Mar 26. AM General, will feature its all-new Unmanned Ground Vehicle (UGV) at the Association of the U.S. Army (AUSA) Global Force Symposium & Exposition, March 24-26, Booth #1111 at the Von Braun Convention Center in Huntsville, AL. This groundbreaking platform is equipped with the next generation light tactical vehicle powertrain, marking a new direction for the company’s light tactical vehicles. “We are excited to showcase the next generation of innovation at AUSA Global Force,” said incoming AM General President and CEO, John Chadbourne. “The UGV is a groundbreaking capability for Army logistics needs. We’re also envisioning the additional benefits of this flexible platform and is an example of what collaborative industry initiatives can deliver.” Continuing its collaboration with Carnegie Robotics and Textron Systems, the company will showcase this next-generation autonomous ground vehicle engineered for adaptability, survivability, and operational dominance and built to extend reach, reduce risk, and bring scalable capability to the modern battlefield. The vehicle on display has a reconfigurable cargo deck for multiple mission sets, features a wireless remote-controlled T-boom service crane for logistical efficiency, and has an L-track modular cargo fastening system. At the show, the UGV will also carry the FireAnt sUGV from Swarmbotics AI, which is a low-cost, attritable unmanned ground vehicle designed to extend situational awareness and operational capability in high-risk environments. “At Carnegie Robotics, we are excited to continue this partnership with AM General—a collaboration that fuses engineering excellence with visionary ambition. By integrating our robust, low-cost autonomy stack and modular hardware kit, we are accelerating the deployment of next-generation unmanned systems,” said Leo Agafonov, Director of Technical Operations. “Together, with AM General, we are not only expanding the boundaries of technological possibility but also inspiring a future where affordable, attritable autonomy empowers new missions and redefines what’s achievable.” The vehicle also features a new turbocharged 6.5L 8-cylinder engine that delivers powerful, fuel-flexible performance with advanced cooling and injection. Utilizing a common rail direct injection fuel system, the new engine can produce 250hp and over 550lb-ft of torque. Not only will this new engine power the UGV, but it will also underpin future light tactical vehicles, including the ever-evolving HUMVEE platform. This marks a new direction for the company which continually innovates to serve those who serve to protect us. “Providing the hardware and software control layer for the AM General UGV program underscores Textron Systems’ commitment to advancing autonomous systems by leveraging ready- now, commercial off the shelf (COTS) technology,” said Sara Willett, Vice President of Programs. “By connecting intent to robotic execution, our control layer delivers reliable, consistent performance for autonomous ground vehicles operating in challenging environments. Our collaboration with AM General and Carnegie Robotics accelerates the fielding of an autonomous resupply solution built to meet the demands of modern missions.” A UGV demonstrator is undergoing testing in preparation for an Army request for proposal, expected to be released later this year.
MARTE – Main ARmoured Tank of Europe
The European defence sector entered a new era of industry- and Ministry of Defence-cooperation in the domain of Main Battle Tanks. Funded by the European Defence Fund (EDF), the MARTE project (Main ARmoured Tank of Europe) is far more than a technology project, it is a cornerstone for Europe`s strategic autonomy and military relevance in high intensity land warfare.
MARTE aims to design Europe`s future Main Battle Tank as a system complete that will dominate future battlefields. MARTE sets new standards in multinational capability development by harmonizing the requirements of in total 11 European Member States involved (Germany (lead), Belgium, Estonia, Finland, Greece, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, Romania, Spain and Sweden), including lessons learned from current conflicts. The overall ambitious project goal is to achieve Preliminary Design Review (PDR) maturity within only 24 months.
One year after the official Kick-Off in December 2024, the MARTE project, coordinated and led by MARTE ARGE GbR, a joint venture company between KNDS Deutschland GmbH & Co. KG and Rheinmetall Landsysteme GmbH, now has successfully reached a decisive midterm milestone. Building on the strong foundation laid at project start, the consortium confirms substantial progress across technical, organizational and strategic aspects within the past 12 months.
Guided by the MARTE Core Team, consisting of MARTE ARGE GbR, KNDS Deutschland GmbH & Co. KG and Rheinmetall Landsysteme GmbH (all Germany), Leonardo SPA (Italy), Indra Sistemas SA (Spain) and SAAB AB (Sweden), the MARTE consortium has managed to complete several technical Work Packages and to submit key deliverables to the granting authority, the European Commission in accordance with the agreed schedule.
The results achieved include a comprehensive Concept of Operations as well as a full set of requirements for a future Main Battle Tank System. Led by SAAB AB, the consortium partners engaged in close collaboration with the participating Ministries of Defence (MoDs). This joint effort resulted in a consolidated and harmonized baseline, explicitly incorporating the needs of the participating MoDs, representing the future customers. In addition, under the leadership of Indra Sistemas S.A., the consortium carried out an extensive market survey. Numerous partners contributed their expertise to evaluate the availability, technological readiness and performance capabilities of relevant technologies and subsystems across the European defence market.
With all submitted deliverables formally approved by the European Commission, a strong foundation has been established to advance into the next stage of the MARTE project. This phase focuses design and architecture activities of the overall MBT system and its subsystems, with KNDS Deutschland GmbH & Co.KG, Rheinmetall Landsysteme GmbH and Leonardo SPA taking the lead in driving these key activities.
The General Assembly, held in November 2025 in San Sebastián (Spain) and hosted by MARTE ARGE GbR, gathered all consortium members and key stakeholders at the project’s halfway point. Beyond presenting the results achieved to date, the event offered insights into ongoing activities, ensured full alignment on the roadmap towards the targeted Preliminary Design Review, and thereby reaffirmed MARTE as one of the most consequential defence programs embedded in the EDF.
The achievements reached to date, the strong industrial collaboration across Europe, and the continued active engagement of the participating Ministries of Defence collectively position MARTE as a decisive strategic investment in Europe’s technological sovereignty and defence innovation.
11 Mar 26. Oshkosh Defense LLC, an Oshkosh Corporation [NYSE: OSK] business, is exhibiting at the Association of the U.S. Army Global Force Symposium, March 24–26, highlighting how commercial manufacturing strength, rapid integration, and lifecycle sustainment accelerate the fielding of integrated fires and multi-domain capability.
Oshkosh Defense is showcasing integration-enabled platforms that bring power, autonomy, and mission systems together—advancing operational speed and reducing program risk for the U.S. Army.
Light Multi-Mission Autonomous Vehicle (L-MAV): Evolved from the U.S. Marine Corps ROGUE-Fires, the L-MAV is a modular, autonomous multi-mission carrier designed to accelerate capability insertion across multiple mission sets, including counter-UAS, electronic warfare, network extension, and autonomous resupply. Its open architecture supports rapid integration of new payloads, while its powertrain can be adapted to hybrid-electric configurations to enable silent drive, silent watch, enhanced fuel efficiency, and increased exportable power.
SIGMA Next-Generation Mobile Tactical Cannon: Elbit America’s SIGMA system, built on the Oshkosh Mobile Artillery Platform (MAP) foundation, represents a low-risk, mission-ready solution aligned to the Army’s Mobile Tactical Cannon objectives. Developed to support rapid fires and shoot-and-scoot survivability, SIGMA carries heavy payloads, delivers off-road mobility, and supports the evolving future of long-range munitions. Currently in production for international customers, the next-generation system offers the U.S. Army proven, scalable U.S.-based manufacturing and integration—reducing development timelines and strengthening industrial resilience.
“Modernization demands more than new systems. It requires production-ready mobility foundations that integrate quickly and scale responsibly,” said Pat Williams, Chief Programs Officer at Oshkosh Defense. “Our commercial manufacturing strength, and experience as a preferred integrator, allow us to deliver advanced capability quickly while maintaining the performance and reliability Soldiers deserve.”
As part of Oshkosh Corporation, Oshkosh Defense leverages enterprise-wide engineering depth, advanced manufacturing capability, electrification and autonomy-ready architectures, and sustained investment in modernization. This commercial foundation supports rapid integration, scalable production, and long-term fleet sustainment supporting the Army’s need to operate at the speed of relevance.
Attendees can learn more about Oshkosh Defense solutions in booth 411 at AUSA Global Force Symposium.
About Oshkosh Defense
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 [NYSE: OSK]. Learn more about Oshkosh Defense at www.oshkoshdefense.com.
About Oshkosh Corporation
At Oshkosh (NYSE: OSK), we make innovative, purpose-built vehicles and equipment to help everyday heroes advance communities around the world. Headquartered in Wisconsin, Oshkosh Corporation employs over 18,000 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®, Pierce®, MAXIMETAL, Oshkosh® S-Series™, McNeilus®, IMT®, Jerr-Dan®, Frontline™ Communications, Oshkosh® Airport Products, Oshkosh AeroTech™, Oshkosh® Defense and Pratt Miller. For more information, visit oshkoshcorp.com.
11 Marc 26. Patria and Latvia sign comprehensive life-cycle support agreement for CAVS 6×6 armoured vehicle fleet.
Patria and Latvia have concluded Life Cycle Support (LCS) agreement for the Common Armoured Vehicle System (CAVS) 6×6 armoured vehicle fleet operated by Latvian National Armed Forces (LNAF). The agreement supplements the 2024 Life Cycle Management (LCM) contract for the 6×6 CAVS signed by Latvia, Finland and Patria, which Sweden and Denmark later joined. The contract defines Latvia-specific sustainment processes, responsibilities, services and products ensuring long-term operational readiness of the fleet.
The arrangements of the contract fully support Latvian security of supply requirements and is aligned with the overarching CAVS programme’s Life Cycle Management framework. The agreement brings all local and Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) level sustainment activities under one contract.
“This agreement strengthens Latvia’s long-term readiness by combining capabilities of the national defence industry with Patria’s OEM expertise. The LCS framework ensures reliable, efficient and future-proof sustainment for the Latvian CAVS fleet for years to come,” says Pekka Ruutu, Executive Vice President of Patria’s Sustainment Solutions business area.
“Through the CAVS programme, Latvia’s security of supply in armoured 6×6 vehicles will be exceptionally strong, supported by ongoing local vehicle assembly since 2022, a completed maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) technology-transfer programme in 2025, and the establishment of a dedicated spare parts stock capable of supporting both peacetime and crisis conditions,” says Ugis Romanovs, Patria’s Country Manager for Latvia.
The Finnish-led CAVS programme currently consists of seven member nations: Finland, Latvia, Sweden, Germany, Denmark, The United Kingdom and Norway with the vehicles being also operational in Ukraine. Within the CAVS programme, the 6×6 armoured vehicle system development is led by Patria, that has more than four decades of experience in developing and delivering state-of-the-art protected troop transportation and system integration. Vast majority of supply of the vehicles is conducted by utilising the member nations’ local industry capabilities and every new nation is inherently reinforcing the security of supply for the whole collaboration system.
13 Mar 26. Three different autonomy companies selected off-road vehicles from Polaris Government and Defense as they participated in the U.S. Army’s xTech|Edge Strike: Ground competition in Vilseck, Germany March 3-13. Autonomy partners Dataspeed, Inc, Forterra and Overland AI competed in the Uncrewed, Automated, Modular Ground Platforms category with off-road commercial and military vehicles from Polaris: the MRZR D4 ultralight tactical vehicle, RANGER XD 1500 utility side-by-side and RZR XP 1000 Sport side-by-side.
“Polaris vehicles have become force multipliers for expeditionary warfighters worldwide, and the integration of autonomy can expand the roles and capabilities of the vehicles even further. As a commercial company with high volume production capacity, we are uniquely suited to provide affordable commercial unmanned ground vehicles at scale,” said Nick Francis, vice president, Polaris Government and Defense. “For 25 years, we have provided vehicles, service, training and support around the world leveraging our European and Australia-based Government and Defense teams for direct support. We also have unique contract mechanisms like the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) for the MRZR D available to NATO member and partner nations to streamline the vehicle acquisition process.”
MRZR D4 – Dataspeed, Inc. – Kinetic360™: Agentic Uncrewed Vehicle for Sustainment, Reconnaissance and CASEVAC. More than 50 military and security forces worldwide have fielded MRZR D tactical off-road vehicles from Polaris to support expeditionary, rapid response and special operations missions. The MRZR D’s modular payload design, diesel powertrain, air and sea transportability make it a trusted platform for tactical mobility in complex terrain and contested zones. The MRZR D is also available through an NSPA contract, enabling NATO members and partner nations to acquire the MRZR D to enhance mobility, interoperability and mission readiness.
RANGER XD1500 – Forterra – LANCER Autonomous Ground Vehicle. The RANGER XD 1500 is an extreme duty utility side-by-side with a ProStar 1500cc 3-cylinder gas engine that offers an industry-leading 110 horsepower and STEELDRIVE automatic transmission for greater durability and precise control.
RZR XP 1000 – Overland AI – ULTRA Autonomous Ground Vehicle. The RZR XP 1000 is engineered for off-road durability and power. Its nimble handling and agility pair with Overland AI’s autonomy software, OverDrive, to execute aggressive tactical maneuvers, providing efficiency and stability across demanding and technical terrain.
Through the xTech|Edge Strike: Ground competition, the U.S. Army sought out innovative autonomous ground systems, offering participants the opportunity to engage with the government, earn prize money and potentially receive a contract award or agreement.
Polaris vehicles are designed for austere environments, allowing military forces to travel through harsher off-road conditions at full payload at a faster pace than any other vehicles in this class. Polaris designs and manufactures the most capable light tactical military vehicles available today with technology development and insertion for the battlefield of tomorrow. Polaris light tactical vehicles – the MV850, MRZR D, MRZR Alpha and DAGOR – provide unmatched off-road capability while also being intuitive to operate, simple to maintain, highly transportable and easy to globally support. Polaris commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) platforms, like the RANGER, RZR and Sportsman are also well-suited for autonomous applications, providing affordable off-road mobility and high-volume production capacity, making Polaris vehicles the off-road platforms of choice for autonomy integration.
24 Mar 26. Army blames Ajax safety incident on armoured vehicle not being operated properly.
An incident that left more than 30 soldiers ill after operating Ajax was down to the vehicles not being operated or maintained properly, a senior officer has insisted.
The MOD paused testing of the armoured fighting vehicle amid reports of soldiers vomiting and shaking following training on Exercise Titan Storm last year.
But Lieutenant General Anna-Lee Reilly said the Army’s investigation team reported that when Ajax is operated as designed it presents no safety concerns.
- Armoured alternatives: If the axe should fall, Ajax isn’t the Army’s only option
- Ajax set to be fully operational by end of 2029 – pending safety probes, says Pollard
- War is coming and Ajax needs fixing now, MP and former Army officer warns Carns
A troubled programme
Ajax had originally been due to enter service in 2017, but the £6.3bn programme has been fraught with problems and significant delays.
Several safety investigations are underway after the incident last year.
Lt Gen Reilly, Director Strategic Capability, Engagement and Operations, Defence Equipment & Support, said: “The soldiers had been out on it for a prolonged period of time.
“Clearly, we had a situation where the platform wasn’t operated and maintained within the specification it should have been, and that led to the incident.
“We know now, because we’ve done all of the research, that within that, if it is operated within those standards and within those specifications, it is safe – that’s what we are being told by the Army safety investigation team, that’s what’s been reported.
“What we now need to do is make sure that platform is always operated within that – and in the meantime make sure that we are developing the platform to get to Ajax 2 so we can make these improvements and make a more comfortable ride, back to safety as sacrosanct, but we can also improve the lived experience of our soldiers in the back of that platform.”
Maintaining the correct track tension is crucial for any AFV – too tight and it puts excessive strain on the links, and the track could break, too loose and it creates excessive noise and the vehicle may throw a track (Picture: MOD)
No wilful ignorance
Lt Gen Reilly was giving evidence to the Public Accounts Committee in Parliament, where Lincoln Jopp, an MP who is a former Army officer, asked her: “So the commanders on the exercise were either ignorant of or chose to ignore the operating parameters of the vehicle?”
She responded: “As you’re travelling cross-country, the tension of track and things alter over time.
“It was a very long exercise, and the soldiers were on the platforms for a long period of time, so it wasn’t wilful ignorance as you might suggest, but it is part of operating on armour.
“Now that we are aware of that, and we’re tracking that, we can get to a position whereby we now know what instructions we can give our soldiers to do. Checks every time they stop the vehicle and that sort of thing.”
Ajax will offer the Army an enhanced capability over the CVR(T)s it’s replacing – if it does enter operational service (Picture: MOD)
Get it back in action – or risk skill fade
Lt Gen Reilly said she wanted to see soldiers back on Ajax as quickly as possible, because skills like these can be lost.
“We haven’t operated like that because of our campaigning years in Iraq and Afghanistan for a really, really long time,” she pointed out.
“And these are skills, and that’s why we are really keen to get our soldiers back on those platforms as quickly as possible, because they lose the skill set of operating on armour.
“It is a skill set. We need to keep it current, and therefore we need to get them back on the platform as quickly as possible.”
The chair of the Public Accounts Committee, Sir Geoffrey Clifton Brown, said: “Well, I’ve heard those answers. It will be interesting to see whether you are able to overcome the problems or not.
“What we can’t afford to do is put any more of our soldiers at risk with hearing and vibration problems.”
(Source: https://www.forces.net/)
——————————————————————————————————————–
TEK Military Seating Limited
TEK Military Seating Limited is a UK based designer and manufacturer of ProTEK military vehicle seating which offer the highest standards of safety and protection. The ProTEK brand is well respected across the globe for its robust construction, innovative design, built in modularity and cost effectiveness. Our superior products are supported by our experienced team who endeavor to offer unrivalled service to our customers from enquiry, through design and acceptance, to through life support.
From its inception ProTEK seats have been designed around a family of innovative seat frames onto which tested and certified modules can be fitted to create a bespoke solution for the user. These include Blast protection to Stanag 4569 standards, vibration reduction, head and body protection, seat risers and turntables, fore & aft adjustment, and seat back rake along with viable seat dimensions without the need for additional tooling costs.
Contact: Paul Fleming
—————————————————————————————————————-