Seven-Year $109 Million USSOCOM Commitment
Polaris Government and Defense has won a follow-on US DoD contract, valued at up to $109 million (€96.5 million) to supply Light Tactical All-Terrain Vehicles (LTATV) to support US Special Operations Command (USSOCOM).
The seven-year contract calls for supply of the MRZR Alpha vehicle, offering requisite levels of durability, performance, payload capability and an entirely new level of internal air transportable mobility, the company announced on 4 June.
“Polaris has had the privilege of providing vehicles to USSOCOM since 2005 and we take a great deal of pride in delivering and supporting the current LTATV,” commented Jed Leonard, VP Polaris Government and Defense. “USSOCOM and GSA provided industry with clear and early communication of requirements – we listened, we invested and [another] MRZR will be available for US Special Operations.”
The MRZR Alpha is Polaris’ 11th military vehicle produced in 12 years. The LTATV specification – which calls for a 2- and 4-passenger base vehicle, with seven variants or ‘packages’ – results in a revolutionary new capability. Designed on an all-new chassis, the MRZR Alpha is an entirely new breed of light tactical vehicle. Internally transportable vehicles have restrictions as to size and weight, but Polaris’ investment and advances in chassis, driveline, suspension and other technologies have enabled the company to provide a more capable vehicle in the MRZR Alpha. Systems were also designed with near-future innovation in mind: an architecture ready to accept new technologies and capabilities available within Polaris. Packages called for under the contract will include: a diesel-electric hybrid engine, rear-facing seats and rear ROPS, modular cargo area, top-mounted weapons integration, roof kit, enclosure or cab kit and arctic mobility.
The vehicle’s versatility is further enhanced by improved exportable power and increased payload. Since its introduction, the MRZR has been outfitted with C-UAS, weapons and high-energy lasers, ISR systems, expeditionary C2 systems, autonomy packages, litters for medical and casualty evacuation and communications equipment.
“We’re fully invested in providing the highest performing, most reliable LTATV ever – and we’ll continue to listen, support and innovate because our military – and especially our Special Operations Forces – demand and deserve the best,” observed Polaris Defense Director, Nick Francis.