DRS Provides Critical Power Technology to USMC

For On-The-Move Power Needs of Tactical-Wheeled Vehicles

(Parsippany, N.J., June 28, 2010) -- DRS Technologies delivered its On-Board Vehicle Power (OBVP)-equipped High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle (HMMWV) to the United States Marine Corps on Monday, June 28, 2010.

This modified HMMWV delivers more than 30 kilowatts of electrical power for on-vehicle and off-vehicle use. The Marine Corps will evaluate technology provided by two suppliers and will subsequently select one manufacturer to deliver five additional vehicles for continued testing and trials.

If all contract options are exercised by the Marines, a total of sixteen vehicles would be modified to the OBVP configuration.

DRS' innovative approach designed and integrated in its Huntsville, AL facility, delivers significant advantages in terms of size, weight, power, combat versatility and cost efficiencies over currently fielded systems.

Working with multiple prime contractors and OEMs, DRS is evolving its technology for a broad range of tactical and combat vehicles across the U.S. Military.

About the Technology:

DRS' OBVP offers field commanders operational flexibility, reliability and agility, while reducing maintenance and support costs over other power-upgrade solutions that add belts, pulleys and shafts. OBVP reduces the airlift and logistics footprint − and their related cost − when towed generators are not the best power-needs solution.

Using DRS' technology and in close coordination with OEM transmission partners, it is now possible to achieve power levels of more than 30 kilowatts in a HMMWV sized vehicle and up to 125 kilowatts in combat sized vehicles, such as a Stryker and MRAP. Equipping vehicles with more electrical generation capabilities means that increased numbers of technologically advanced devices can be placed in the hands of service men and women.

DRS' OBVP system is delivered as a factory or depot modification kit that features a transmission-integral generator (TIG). The TIG is fully embedded in the existing transmission bell housing and its application does not affect existing driveline geometries.

On-the-move power is available to support enhanced operations in both current and future force vehicles. OBVP may be used to provide expeditionary power for Tactical Operations Centers (TOC), expeditionary field hospitals, or other battlefield power requirements. This capability substantially reduces or eliminates the need for traditional towed generators in an expeditionary force.

Source : DRS Technologies Inc., A Finmeccanica Company (Milan: FNC.MI) - click here for more information