General Dynamics’ [GD] Ordnance and Tactical Systems and Marvin Group’s Flyer Defense LLC are poised to deliver the first Flyer Internally Transportable Vehicles (ITV) in the next few weeks, under a potential $5.8 million, three-year indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity contract from U.S. Special Operations Command (SOCOM) for non-developmental V-22 ITVs.
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| Flyer Internally Transportable Vehicle (ITV). Photo: Marvin Group. |
“This award positions General Dynamics as a key provider to the U.S. SOCOM for internally transportable vehicles. By using a high percentage of non-developmental technology the Flyer can be fielded quickly and cost-effectively,” said Tim Neaves, senior director of lightweight tactical vehicles for General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems. “The combined knowledge and manufacturing expertise of General Dynamics and Flyer Defense will enable us to meet SOCOM’s demanding requirements, along with those of other U.S. and foreign customers seeking affordable internally transportable light-strike vehicles.”
The contract is for up to 10 vehicles that SOCOM will evaluate, and includes integration and logistical support and training.
Sean Ridley, deputy director for Flyer at General Dynamics OTS, said Flyer’s top speed is 85 miles an hour and it has a range of some 450 miles.
The vehicle is capable of moving over severe, rugged and restrictive terrain while providing off-road, cross-country mobility in all types of weather.
Flyer can be easily and rapidly reconfigured in the field and used for a variety of missions, he said. For example, for a medical mission, it can carry four litters, with a second roll cage for protection, or two carry out medical and tactical missions carrying two litters and a 50 caliber.
The 6,500-pound vehicle includes 2,000 pounds of payload, and its modular, armored design allows it to meet an array of threat levels and environmental conditions without vehicle modifications, Ridley said.
Flyer ITV is displayed at the General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems’ booth 707 at the Association of the United States Army annual meeting in Washington, D.C.