AUVSI: SMSS deployment to Afghanistan still on track
A contract to put Lockheed Martin's company funded Squad Mission Support System (SMSS) UGV in to theatre for evaluation is believed to be imminent with the company suggesting that a contract with the US Army's Rapid Equipping Force could be finalised within the next two months. That timescale would allow the army to put the UGVs in to Afghanistan in February or March next year.
The speed of the contract negotiations hinge mainly on finding the right mechanism to ensure that the company funded vehicles can be deployed as they represent a significant investment.
Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control
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