Mexico to buy large number of HMMWVs

The US Defense Security Cooperation Agency has given notice of a potential Foreign Military Sale to Mexico for M1152 High Mobility Multi-Purpose Wheeled Vehicles (HMMWVs) and associated equipment, parts, training and logistical support for an estimated cost of $556 million.

The Mexican has requested a possible sale of 3,335 HMMWVs. The DSCA said that the proposed sale would contribute to the foreign policy and national security of the US by helping to improve the security of a strategic partner. Mexico has been a strong partner in combating organised crime and drug trafficking organisations. The sale of these HMMWVs to Mexico will significantly increase and strengthen its capability to provide in-country troop mobility to provide security.

Mexico intends to use the HMMWVs to modernise its armed forces and expand its existing army architecture to combat drug trafficking organisations. This will contribute to the Mexican military’s goal of updating its capabilities, while further enhancing interoperability between Mexico and the US and among other allies. The DSCA said that Mexico would have no difficulty absorbing the vehicles into its armed forces.

The HMMWV has a low profile (6ft), a wide stance (7ft) and is 15ft long. These proportions contribute to a stable, road-hugging truck that is very difficult to roll over. The vehicle constructed on a steel frame with boxed frame rails and five cross members constructed from high-grade alloy steel. Once the substructure is assembled, E-coating is applied to provide additional corrosion protection.

The aluminum body reduces weight and provides resistance to corrosion. Aluminum body panels are riveted and bonded together with technologically-advanced adhesives to provide additional strength. The body is designed to flex to accommodate off-road stresses.

The principal contractor will be AM General in South Bend, Indiana. There are no known offset agreements proposed in connection with this potential sale.

The DSCA added that implementation of the proposed sale would require at least four US government or contractor representatives to travel to Mexico for a period of three years to provide operational and maintenance training.