Navistar delivers military ATVs for testing

As a producer of Mine Resistant Ambush Protected vehicles, Warrenville-based Navistar Defense, will compete to supply it's newsest specialty vehicle.

The company delivered two vehicles Monday to undergo testing in the U.S. military's Mine Resistant Ambush Protected All Terrain Vehicle program. Navistar's new design provides the same production and delivery advantages offered by its original product, the International MaxxPro, but in a lighter and more mobile configuration.

Designed to navigate Afghanistan's rough terrain and perform in off-road conditions, Navistar's M-ATV unit utilizes a specially-designed, lightweight armor, which is incorporated into the survivability system. The smaller base allows Navistar's unit to weigh significantly less than its MaxxPro Dash -- the lightest of the company's MRAP units and in service now in Afghanistan.

"We are proud to submit a vehicle based on our MXT platform, which was designed to fill a gap that existed between smaller traditional armored 4x4s and larger transport vehicles," said Archie Massicotte, president, Navistar Defense. "By utilizing our existing commercial platform, we are able to rapidly advance our vehicle design and provide the military with a product that supports mission needs in Afghanistan."

Navistar's M-ATV unit is powered by a MaxxForce 6.0 L V-8 engine designed to maximize speed and payload capability. The company would also be able to support its M-ATV units in theater through its existing dealer and parts and support network, which includes locations in Afghanistan.

"Since our original MRAP award in May 2007, Navistar has delivered more than 6,000 MaxxPro vehicles to the military," said Massicotte. "We are also dedicated to the rapid modification of our vehicles to meet evolving mission needs. In less than 18 months, we were able to modify and deliver six MaxxPro MRAP variants."

Daily Herald business writer Kim Mikus contributed to this report.