Commando select for Afghanistan

The US Army has awarded a contract to Textron Marine & Land Systems for the supply of 55 additional Commando Select four-wheeled armoured vehicles to the Afghan National Army (ANA), the company announced on 28 September.

The firm-fixed-price contract is valued at $56.2 million. The company has earned the contract through the US Army Foreign Military Sales (FMS) process. 

The vehicles under the order will be configured in three variants: 15 vehicles with enclosed 40mm/.50 calibre turrets; 36 vehicles equipped with Objective Gunner Protection Kits; and four ambulance vehicles. The vehicles are called as mobile strike force vehicles (MSFV) by the ANA. 

Deliveries will start in October 2015 and will be completed by February 2016. The company will also provide logistics, training and maintenance support services throughout each vehicle’s life cycle.

The ANA has received the delivery of over 650 units of MSFV since 2012.

Tom Walmsley, senior vice president and general manager, Textron Marine & Land Systems, said: ‘Since being put into service by Afghan National Army Kandaks (battalions), several years ago, ANA soldiers have experienced the exceptional mobility, survivability and overall performance these vehicles are known for.

‘This additional supply of vehicles will support Kandaks currently operating MSFVs, so that existing ANA vehicle inventory can be rotated in for regular service and maintenance work,’ he added.