General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems [GD] is moving to low-rate initial production (LRIP) on the Ground Mobility Vehicle 1.1 program after a U.S. Special Operations Command (SOCOM) Milestone C Decision.
Under LRIP, General Dynamics will produce and deliver 72 vehicles to SOCOM by 2016.
Photo: General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems
Awarded to General Dynamics in August 2013, the GMV 1.1 vehicle is an extremely light, highly mobile and internally transportable on the C/MH-47 Chinook, that that meets SOCOM high-priority mission requirements.
The GMV 1.1 vehicle is the company’s Flyer 72 platform with SOCOM specific modifications.
Jointly developed by General Dynamics and
Flyer Defense LLC, the Flyer 72 has a top-speed of 100 mph, a cruising range of 350 miles and can carry up to nine operators with payload while traversing remote and demanding terrain, the company said in a statement.
With a payload-to-weight ratio greater than 1:1, the Flyer 72 is unique in its ability to carry more than it weighs. It can easily be reconfigured to meet a wide range of specific mission sets without modifying the vehicle’s base design or using any special tools.
“This is a significant accomplishment for our GMV 1.1 team. We look forward to continuing this strong partnership with USSOCOM and we are fully committed to providing this unique capability on schedule and within cost,” said Tim Neaves, director of lightweight vehicle programs for General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems.