US Army orders next-generation heavy hauler from Oshkosh Defense

Oshkosh Defense, a division of Oshkosh Corporation, has been awarded its first production order for the newest configuration of the Heavy Equipment Transporter (HET) from the US Army. The Oshkosh HET A1 features design improvements to provide a more powerful vehicle fleet. It is a part of the Army's Family of Heavy Tactical Vehicles (FHTV), produced by Oshkosh Defense, which also includes the Heavy Expanded Mobility Tactical Truck (HEMTT) A4 and the Palletized Load System (PLS) A1.

"The production of the HET A1 marks the completion of a series of enhancements made to the Army's heavy fleet," said Mike Ivy, vice president and general manager of Army Programs for Oshkosh Defense. "By listening to our customer's needs, Oshkosh engineers integrated new technologies in the upgraded HEMTT A4, PLS A1 and now the HET A1 that improve their operational capabilities and survivability."

The Oshkosh HET, often paired with the M1000 heavy-duty trailer, is designed to rapidly transport battle tanks, fighting and recovery vehicles, armored vehicles, and construction equipment, as well as their crews, so they arrive in mission-ready condition. The latest Oshkosh HET A1 configuration includes increased horsepower, higher capacity front suspension, electrical upgrades, improved diagnostics and air conditioning standard.

This delivery order is for more than 1,000 vehicles and is valued at nearly $440 million. Production will take place in Oshkosh, and is scheduled for completion in June 2012.

Source: Oshkosh

Follow Shephard News on Twitter