ACV. Are we missing an opportunity.

Japan Ground Self-Defense Force officers observe a static display of assault amphibious vehicles July 12 at Camp Schwab as part of the Japan observer exchange program. “The JOEP members came here to inquire about the capabilities of the AAV platform,” said U.S. Marine Capt. John S. Kim “They want to know how the vehicles are employed and what its capabilities are in oceanic and land-based exercises.” Kim is the company commander of AAV Company, Combat Assault Battalion, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force

The question must be asked.

Are we missing a tremendous opportunity by delaying the development of the ACV?

The Japanese and Brazilians have already expressed interest in the AAV and would probably jump at a more modern vehicle (even if that vehicle was say the wheeled Marine Personnel Carrier certified to operate in surf conditions and capable of carrying 9 Marines).  Toss in the possibility to the winning manufacturer of getting improved economies of scale with regards to sales and you have one of the biggest armored vehicle projects going in the next 5 maybe 10 years and its international to boot.

Its the F-35 program, but for an optimized Marine armored vehicle and its a true bridge to operational compatibility with allied forces. Besides Japan and Brazil, you can bet that the S. Koreans would be interested as would Taiwan, Australia (eventually), Italy (ok, maybe not they're sold on wheels and have the SuperAv), Spain and a few others that are seeking to fully develop their amphibious forces.

Remember, the fastest growing segment of warship is the amphib and armored transport for Marines is something that many lust for.

Yeah.  We are missing an opportunity here.