Lockheed JLTV passes blast testing

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DALLAS, Oct. 7 (UPI) -- Lockheed Martin says U.S. government tests show its Joint Light Tactical Vehicle provides MRAP protection levels at 40 percent less weight than other vehicles.

"Our improved v-hull design is demonstrating its merit, having now surpassed technology development protection targets set by our customer," said Scott Greene, vice president of ground vehicles in Lockheed Martin's Missiles and Fire Control business.

"Our team has produced a remarkable family of vehicles that strikes the right balance between weight and force protection."

The results verified Lockheed Martin's JLTV, which weighs 40 percent less than other U.S. mine-resistant vehicles now fielded, can protect soldiers from powerful blasts and still be transported by vertical lift, a new mobility option for the Army and Marines at this protection level.

Previous U.S. Army and Marine Corps tests showed JLTV can be transported by CH-47 and CH-53 helicopters.

"In addition to being helo-transportable and mine-resistant, our JLTV design also brings another important advantage to the battlefield: improved mobility. Its lightweight, agile design will help soldiers to evade enemies and avoid threats," Greene said.

Lockheed Martin is pursuing the JLTV program, a joint services effort to return advanced mobility, protection and payload to deployed troops by replacing and complementing the aging High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle fleet.

The JLTV program creates a common family of vehicles consisting of the combat tactical vehicle and combat support vehicle, both with multiple variants and associated companion trailers.