TARDEC Mine Resistant Underbody Earns Award

October 20, 2009

DETROIT ARSENAL, WARREN, MI ? A U.S. Army project to develop lightweight, mine-resistant fuel carriers was recognized Oct. 4 at a U.S. Army awards ceremony.

The U.S. Army Tank Automotive, Research, Development and Engineering Center’s (TARDEC’s) and Army Research Laboratory’s (ARL’s) Lightweight Vehicle Underbody Protection System (LVUPS) received a 2009 collaboration award during the U.S. Army Acquisitions Corps Annual Award Ceremony.

The project, which linked the efforts of TARDEC engineers, other Army researchers and defense industry experts, has resulted in development of the LVUPS mine protection system that enhances field maneuverability, lowers weight, increases occupant protection, saves fuel and lowers the life-cycle costs associated with Mine Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicles.

“This project exemplifies the kind of dedication, cooperation, innovation, expertise and personal pride necessary -- and inherent -- in every project and program that TARDEC undertakes on behalf of the Nation’s military personnel,” noted TARDEC Director Dr. Grace M. Bochenek. “This kind of collaboration leverages the most advanced vehicle system technology solutions available for our Soldiers and military personnel.”

Engineers with TARDEC’s Prototype Integration Facility partnered with experts from the ARL, the Army Test and Evaluation Center and defense industry contractors to design and field test the underbody system. The system incorporates features that optimize a vehicle’s ability to withstand blast force from improvised explosive devices and other explosives and land mines. Those materials and processes include the use of aluminum lithium 2195 and Friction Stir Welding.

The annual awards ceremony, held at the Crystal Gateway Marriott in Arlington, Va., recognizes the accomplishments of the acquisition workforce’s most extraordinary members and the teams they lead.

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