The Medium Mine Protected Vehicle is a class of armored vehicles being procured by the US Army, similar to the MRAP program, which is being pursued by the US Army and the US Marine Corps. The Army's MMPV executive summary states: "The Medium Mine Protected Vehicle is a blast protected, wheeled vehicle platform that will operate in explosive hazardous environments to support emerging Future Engineer Force Clearance Companies in route and area clearance operations, Explosive Hazards Teams in explosive hazards reconnaissance operations, and EOD companies in Explosive Ordnance Disposal operations." According to a US Army spokesperson: "What separates these programs are different schedules and sustainment requirements, resulting in different acquisition strategies and source selection criteria priorities. The MMPV... and MRAP have been in close coordination, especially from a hardware perspective." There are plans to integrate the Crows IIremote weapon station, the Frag Kit 6 anti-EFP armor, and the Boomerang anti-sniper system on many MMPVs in combat.
Specifications
's informational papers state the requirements of the MMPV to be as follows:
100% of communication interfaces; services; policy enforcement controls; and data correctness available. SINCGARS and FBCB2 included as part of baseline configuration
Transportable by rail, sealift, highway, air without disassembly
Engine and suspension must be able to handle payload weight of 9000 lb at speeds up to 62 mph on improved “paved” roads
Operate by 1 Soldier with ability to transport 6 additional Soldiers / EOD variant will have 1 operator with ability to transport 3 additional Soldiers and 2 robots
Designed for quick repair in the field after a mine blast
Initial maintenance provided through CLS. Battle damage repair kits and detailed manuals need to be provided. Manuals need to go through full VAL/VERA
* Equipped with a 15000 lb vehicle winch on the front of the vehicle
Transversal 360-degree ring mount for crew served weapon that is removable
Tactical lighting system inside and outside of vehicle with blackout capabilities
Upgradeable to provide NBC protection and operate in MOPP 4 conditions
Equipped with an interior climatic control system to provide heating and cooling / Capable of operating in hot and basic MIL-standard climatic conditions
Provide external air source capable of providing compressed air with sufficient pressure and volume
Ignition/Starter switch should be pushbutton vice keyed
Have ability to provide removable ramp and computer workstation terminal
Vehicle chosen
In December 2007, the Army chose the RG-33 family of vehicles, produced by BAE Systems, for its MMPV program. The contract was for up to $2.2 billion in orders, to produce up to 2,500 vehicles through 2015, for Army Engineers and Explosive Ordnance Disposal teams. The initial order was for nine test vehicles, to be completed between May and August 2008. In April 2008, the Army issued a $132 million production contract to BAE System for 179 vehicles.
