Making a late night swing thru the internet I ran across an article by National Defense Magazine stating that Lockheed Martin was anxious to win combat vehicle contracts.
I was pumped up hoping to catch news of the MPC. I was disappointed. Check this out...
The Marine Corps has yet to release requirements detailing how extensive the ACV’s amphibious capabilities should be, Greene said.How did I miss that?
Marine Corps officials have said the ACV 1.1 may not be required to move from ship to shore on its own, as the current amphibious assault vehicle can. The service is still evaluating to what extent it will use “connectors” to help shepherd the vehicle closer to land.
Lockheed’s vehicle can travel at speeds of about 5 knots and operate in sea state 2 — waves ranging from 4 inches to over one and a half feet high, Greene said.
In 2013, the Havoc completed amphibious and blast testing during the technology demonstration phase of the MPC program. General Dynamics, SAIC and BAE Systems also participated in technology demonstrations and could offer vehicles for the ACV 1.1 program.
Greene said that the engineering, manufacturing and development phase will kick off “in the not-too-distant future.” The Marine Corps will ultimately buy about 700 vehicles, he added.
Amos did another one of those delaying tactics when it comes to this vehicle. I don't think he has ever been honest with the Marine Corps when it comes to this vehicle/program.
I've said it before and I'll say it again. The F-35 has put the Marine Corps in a procurement hurt locker. The only thing that can explain the delays, the indecision and the re-starting of this program --- over and over and over again --- has to be that they're trying to save money and by extension the F-35.
