BAE, Iveco team for contract bid

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ARLINGTON, Va., Aug. 18 (UPI) -- BAE Systems and Italy's Iveco Defense Vehicles have officially teamed in pursuit of a contract for the U.S. Marine Corps Personnel Carrier program.

The companies, which announced a licensing agreement in June, have signed both a teaming agreement and technology cross-licensing agreement.

"This teaming agreement is particularly timely as we recently responded to the Marine Corps' Request for Information for the MPC program," said Ann Hoholick, vice president and general manager of amphibious and new programs at BAE Systems.

"Combining our expertise allows us to best address the requirements of the U.S. Marine Corps and its MPC program with an affordable amphibious platform that balances performance, capability and cost."

These agreements allow collaboration between BAE Systems and Iveco Defense Vehicles to modify and adapt the Iveco SUPERAV 8x8 for the MPC program. Both BAE Systems and Iveco Defense have extensive experience across a range of mine-protected and armored vehicles, including several 8x8 models.

The MPC is designed to provide a modern amphibious armored wheeled personnel carrier capability within the Marine Corps' Ground Combat Element. It will be a flexible and highly mobile asset for the Marines that will be well protected, sustainable, networked and include a strong amphibious capability.

Iveco, a Fiat Industrial company, designs, manufactures and markets a broad range of light, medium and heavy commercial vehicles, off-road trucks, city and intercity buses and coaches as well as special vehicles for applications such as fire fighting, off-road missions, defense and civil protection.