STERLING HEIGHTS, Mich., Feb. 5 (UPI) -- General Dynamics Land Systems-Force Protection is to upgrade Cougar combat vehicles delivered earlier to the U.S. Marine Corps.
The Cougar, delivered to the Marines under the Mine Resistant, Ambush Protected program, is an infantry vehicle with a V-shaped hull to disperse the blast of an improvised explosive device. It has a gross weight of 32,000 pounds and carries four troops with equipment in addition to crew.
General Dynamics Land Systems – Force Protection said the new contract from the U.S. Marine Corps Systems Command in Quantico, Va., is for enhancement of protection for Cougar passengers.
The company, it said, will develop, design and produce 468 seat survivability upgrade for the MRAPs. Included in the kits will be energy absorbing seats, five-point seatbelts and blast mats. The internal crew automatic fire extinguisher system will also be reconfigured under the award.
Upgrades to the driver and co-driver compartments, and other improvements to the interior layout and stowage are also part of the deal.
The contract carries a value of $26 million. The upgrade kits are to be delivered by July of next year.
