Two Prototype Vehicles for Evaluation
BAE Systems is to deliver two prototype BEOWULF vehicles, based on its BvS10 articulated all terrain platform, for evaluation by the US Army as a candidate for the service’s Cold Weather All-Terrain Vehicle (CATV) programme, the company announced on 12 April.
Based on existing, proven solutions, BEOWULF is an unarmoured, highly versatile tracked articulated vehicle, capable of moving equipment, supplies or personnel under extremely harsh conditions in remote locations. Its articulated mobility is key to its effectiveness, allowing for optimal manoeuvrability across multiple terrain types. Its modular design lends itself to being exploited for multiple missions, to include logistical support, disaster and humanitarian relief, or search and rescue, in addition to simple transport.
“BEOWULF is an optimal and mature solution for the CATV program and we look forward to submitting our prototypes with the goal of meeting the Army and Army National Guard’s mission,” explained Mark Signorelli, VP of Business Development. “BEOWULF, and its armored sister vehicle, the BvS10, represent the most advanced vehicles in the world when it comes to operating anywhere, whether it’s snow, ice, rock, sand, mud, swamp, or steep mountainous environments. And its amphibious capability allows it to swim in flooded areas or coastal waters.”
Variants of the BvS10, on which BEOWULF is based, are already operating in five countries, first going into service with Britain’s Royal Marines in 2005. Leveraging the BvS10 means the BEOWULF design is already established and ready for production. BEOWULF also benefits from efficient lifecycle management and sustainment costs by using components common with the BvS10.
Both vehicles are built in Sweden, with several key components, such as its engine, transmission, and hydraulic system, coming from US suppliers. The Army is procuring the CATV programme through the National Advanced Mobility Consortium. The programme is designed to replace the aging fleet of Small Unit Support Vehicles (SUSVs) – also built by BAE Systems and known internationally as the BV206 – that have been in service worldwide since the early 1980s.
