Army orders artillery-protected vehicles

HOUSTON, Nov. 15 (UPI) -- The U.S. Army has given BAE Systems a $16 million contract for 44 more vehicles that offer troops protection from artillery attacks.

Under the contract from the U.S. Army Tank-Automotive and Armaments Command, BAE will produce applique kits and provide program support for the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System vehicles.

The contract follows a June 2010 award of $24 million for 63 HIMARS vehicles and applique kits.

The vehicles will be equipped with BAE Systems' Increased Crew Protection cab, derived from a BAE Systems' patented design.

"With our specialized ability to support the growing HIMARS fleet with greater mobility and survivability, BAE Systems continues to demonstrate a commitment to consistently provide our warfighters with enhanced protection on the most reliable medium tactical vehicles at the best value," said Chris Chambers, line lead for BAE Systems.

The vehicles with ICP cabs will be produced in Sealy, Texas, and delivered to the Army by December 2011.

BAE said its HIMARS ICP armored cab design incorporates more than 40 enhancements from previous cab designs. The ICP is designed to provide increased crew protection from ballistic attacks, mine blasts, foreign object debris and toxic fumes associated with rocket launches.

The cabs also feature improved crew survivability, hatch and door ergonomics, cab entry and exit, pressurization and water entry sealing. Composite materials will be used to meet mission success requirements.