$6.8M More for HIMARS Vehicles
Apr 25, 2005 00:32 EDT
Stewart & Stevenson Tactical Vehicle Systems L.P. in Sealy, TX won a $6.8 million modification to a firm-fixed-price and cost-reimbursement contract for the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) Launcher Chassis. HIMARS is based on the need for a lighter weight, more deployable version of the M-270 MLRS tracked vehicle, one that can be sent anywhere in the world to provide lethal long-range rocket artillery fire. It is being designed and produced by the U.S. Army to support its Early Entry Contingency forces and its Light/Airborne/Air Assault Divisions.
The M142 HIMARS uses the same controls, communications, and even crew as the tracked M270 MLRS launcher, but carries only one rocket or missile pod on a 5-ton FMTV truck chassis. It can roll on and off a C-130 transport aircraft and can be ready to operate within 15 minutes of landing when carried with a combat load. In November 2004, HIMARS successfully completed Initial Operational Test & Evaluation, and service entry is underway with the 18th Airborne Corps at Fort Bragg, NC. Three prototype HIMARS launchers were successfully used in combat during Operation Iraqi Freedom, and a total procurement of about 900 launchers is planned.
Work on this vehicle chassis contract will be performed in Sealy, Texas, and is expected to be complete by Nov. 15, 2008. There were two bids solicited on Aug. 15, 2002, and two bids were received. The U.S. Army Tank-Automotive and Armaments Command in Warren, MI issued the contract (DAAE07-03-C-S023).
