Light and heavy

Shaun Connors

Thursday, 19 June, 2008

Oshkosh Defense is showing publicly for the first time at Eurosatory two further additions to the company’s ever-expanding and diversifying product portfolio.
The Lightweight 4×4 and Heavy Load Handling System 8×8 trucks, both of which can be seen at Stand J160d, are further developments of the MTVR (Medium Tactical Vehicle Replacement), and are a move by Oshkosh to broaden potential markets for this purpose-designed and combat-proven tactical truck.
More than 10,000 (6×6) MTVRs in a variety of configurations have been delivered to the United States Marine Corps (USMC) since production commenced in 1999. Export users of the MTVRs include Greece and the UK, both of which have used the vehicles on deployed operations.
The Heavy Load Handling System 8×8 chassis has been developed to address requirements for increased vehicle gross vehicle weight, mobility and protection and is essentially a stretched MTVR with an additional third rear axle, increasing payload to 16,500kg. The first, third and fourth axles steer, suspension being provided by Oshkosh’s own TAK 4 fully independent coil spring suspension.
The Lightweight 4×4 is aimed at the opposite end of the payload/capability scale, this six-tonne payload truck being fitted with beam-type axles and a simpler leaf spring (front) and airbag (rear) suspension set-up for entry-level markets where the sophistication of an independent set-up is not required.
Both new models are based around current MTVR automotives, although Oshkosh representatives point out these vehicles are demonstrators and as such can be further developed to meet specific user requirements. One typical example of this might be a 4×4 chassis with independent suspension, which could be a suitable candidate for the top end of the UK MoD’s evolving OUVS (Operational Utility Vehicle System) requirement.
Both models use the standard MTVR cab, for which a fully combat proven appliqué armour protection kit has been developed and is in service with US and UK forces.
Also displayed by Oshkosh Defense on its outdoor Stand E070 is the SandCat light armoured vehicle.

New Oshkosh Heavy Load Handling System truck