A little birdy has informed me that the US Marine Corps has been offered a simplified version of the EFV by General Dynamics.
It will have a simplified suspension and utilize water jets in place of the complex drive used to propel it through the water.
The best bits are to be retained...meaning everything else but that water drive system. Estimated costs are yet to be determined but this is supposedly the reason for a couple of happenings...first the program offices of three different programs being combined and second the seeming feet dragging that we're seeing with the AAV upgrade and the ACV programs.
Interesting.
You can bet that a note is going to be fired off to the program office this morning to try and get some confirmation on any of this stuff!
But I told ya...when I hear it, you will too!
NOTE:
I posted this story then quickly took it down last night. The reason. I thought it would be better to give the Program Office a chance to respond. They didn't so now its up. Also note that I'm also reaching out to General Dynamics to see if they're willing to verify this story. Every manufacturer is keeping their cards close to the vest. I understand it, but it still annoys. Whats even more annoying is when the government starts playing those reindeer games.
I'm curious what that means? Does simplified drive and suspension mean it's no longer going to water plane? Didn't the EFV already use water jets? If it's not going to water plane they also don't need the 2,800 hp engine.
ReplyDeleteIt would be great to get the AAV's replaced but weren't there also other issues with the EFV including the gun? I seem to remember a lot of complaints?
In any case if they can make the thing affordable great lets start testing.