ARLINGTON, Va., Aug. 19 (UPI) -- A BAE Systems-Northrop Grumman team will help develop a new ground combat vehicle for the U.S. Army.
The contract to participate in the technology development phase of the Ground Combat Vehicle program is worth $449.9 million.
The phase of the GCV program is a 24-month program directed at maturing the GCV proposal through the preliminary design review in anticipation of prototype builds during the engineering and manufacturing development phase of the program.
The BAE Systems-Northrop Grumman team was one of two industry teams awarded TD contracts.
"Advancing to this next phase in the competition brings us one step closer to fielding a vehicle for our soldiers that is affordable, provides for maximum force protection and is built to accommodate future technological enhancements," said Mark Signorelli, vice president and general manager of Weapon Systems at BAE Systems.
"We appreciate being selected by the U.S. Army and the Department of Defense to mature our GCV solution, a critical capability required to modernize our Army and provide soldiers with a decisive edge against any adversary.
"At BAE Systems, we take pride in protecting those who protect us and, with our partners and teammates, are fully committed to the success of this program."
The BAE Systems-Northrop Grumman vehicle features an adaptive platform that will remain relevant for decades, the companies said. Its offering includes a hybrid electric drive propulsion system that enables force protection and mobility in a lower weight vehicle.
The BAE Systems-Northrop Grumman Ground Combat Vehicle team includes: QinetiQ, iRobot Corp., MTU and Saft. As prime contractor, BAE Systems leads the overall program management, systems integration, vehicle design, structure and logistical support as well as readiness and sustainment of the platform. Northrop Grumman serves as the C4ISR lead.
QinetiQ provides the key component of the hybrid electric drive propulsion system, while iRobot serves as the unmanned ground vehicle integrator and will enhance future autonomous operations.
MTU provides the engine and power generation for GCV and Saft provides the battery and energy storage system.
