US Marines Bolster Amphibious Power with $25 Million Combat Vehicles Order

The US Marine Corps (USMC) is strengthening its amphibious capabilities with a fresh $25 million contract awarded to BAE Systems, as announced last Monday, April 8.

This deal secures additional Amphibious Combat Vehicle-Personnel (ACV-P) units, following a previous $181 million contract for the same vehicles.

With this latest handshake, the total program value has increased to $206 million, which signifies the USMC’s commitment to modernizing its expeditionary fighting force.

Ensuring End-to-End Readiness: Beyond Vehicle Production

The contract goes beyond simple vehicle production.

It encompasses the fielding and sustainment of the ACV-Ps, ensuring they are readily deployable and maintainable once delivered.

Additionally, the agreement includes support and test equipment, which are crucial for crew training and ongoing maintenance of these advanced combat platforms.

“This contract award allows us to continue to deliver this critical capability to the Marine Corps to enable warfighters to complete ship-to-shore missions and other expeditionary requirements,” emphasized Garrett Lacaillade, the big gun at BAE Systems’ amphibious vehicle squad.

His statement underscores the importance of the ACV program in enhancing the USMC’s ability to conduct operations from sea to shore, a core tenet of the USMC’s mission.

BAE Systems won’t be going it alone in delivering these ACV-Ps.

Defense firm Iveco will be a key collaborator in the production process.

This partnership leverages the expertise of both companies, ensuring a streamlined and efficient production line to meet the USMC’s requirements.

ACV: Old Guard Out, New Guard In

The ACV program is more than just an acquisition of new vehicles; it’s a significant upgrade.

The ACVs are designed to replace the existing Amphibious Assault Vehicles (AAVs) introduced in 1972.

While the AAV served admirably for decades, the ACV represents a leap forward in amphibious combat vehicle technology.

Developed in 2020, the ACV boasts multi-role capabilities.

It’s designed to handle open-ocean environments and excel in diverse tasks such as reconnaissance missions, providing combat support, and transporting troops across a variety of terrains.

📰 #NEWS: We were awarded a $181 million contract modification by the @USMC to deliver additional Amphibious Combat Vehicle Personnel variants to Marines. The total cumulative face value of the contract is $2.7 billion. pic.twitter.com/JfFEBAsoYC

— BAE Systems, Inc. (@BAESystemsInc) March 7, 2024

Versatility Through Specialization

The ACV program offers not just one vehicle but a family of four variants, each specializing in a specific role.

These variants share a common base platform but are outfitted with unique features to excel in their designated functions.

ACV-P (Personnel): This variant, the focus of the recent contract, is a troop carrier designed to safely transport Marines from ship to shore and during land-based operations.

ACV-C (Command): This variant serves as a mobile command and control center, providing Marines with a tactical hub for coordinating operations in the field.

ACV-R (Recovery): This variant is equipped for battlefield recovery missions, helping to retrieve damaged vehicles and equipment.

ACV-30 (Infantry Fighting Vehicle): This heavily armed variant prioritizes firepower and troop protection, providing direct combat support during offensive operations.

This specialization allows the USMC to deploy the most suitable ACV variant for a given mission, maximizing effectiveness and crew safety.

A Global Presence: The ACV Beyond US Shores

The US Marines aren’t the only force impressed by the ACV’s capabilities.

With over 1,300 ACVs already in operation in the US, several other countries have also chosen to integrate this versatile platform into their arsenals.

Argentina, Italy, and the Philippines are among the nations that have recognized the value of the ACV in bolstering their amphibious combat capabilities.

The $25 million contract for additional ACV-Ps signifies the USMC’s continued commitment to modernizing its amphibious fighting force.

With its advanced technology, diverse functionalities, and growing global presence, the ACV program is poised to play a vital role in future Marine Corps operations.