Oshkosh Defense develops armored ATV

OSHKOSH, Wis. — Feb. 26, 2009 — To meet the urgent need for MRAP All Terrain Vehicles (M-ATV) in Afghanistan, Oshkosh Defense, a division of Oshkosh Corporation (NYSE:OSK), has developed a vehicle that incorporates theater-tested components and technologies.

The Oshkosh M-ATV armor system is based on Plasan battle-tested armor systems currently used for the Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicles in Iraq and the Oshkosh Armored Medium Tactical Vehicle Replacements (MTVR) conducting operations in Afghanistan. Plasan North America developed the required armor system for the Oshkosh M-ATV to provide maximum survivability. The vehicle’s Super Multi-Hit Armor Technology (SMART) armor is used in theater by NATO and has the proven capacity for multiple hits.

The Oshkosh M-ATV features a C7 engine currently used in more than 18,000 vehicles fielded in Iraq and Afghanistan. The Oshkosh M-ATV also features the MTVR chassis and TAK-4® independent suspension system to provide the superior off-road mobility that the Department of Defense requires in the M-ATV.

“Oshkosh Defense and its M-ATV partners have a proven history of delivering battle-tested vehicles and technologies that thrive in even the most rugged off-road terrain,” said John Stoddart, Oshkosh Corporation executive vice president and president, Defense. “U.S. forces in Afghanistan critically need a vehicle that succeeds in the field, however harsh it may be, while providing the best crew protection possible. The Oshkosh M-ATV’s lineage proves that it will get the job done.”

Oshkosh Defense is the only military tactical-wheeled-vehicle manufacturer producing fleets designed primarily for off-road use. Oshkosh pioneered all-wheel drive for off-road mobility more than 90 years ago. Oshkosh has fielded tens of thousands of durable and field-tested medium and heavy payload tactical vehicles for the U.S. Armed Services for decades.