Oshkosh Defense Secures $89 Million Contract to Advance U.S. Army Modernization
- MM24 Multimedia Desk
- Oct 10
- 2 min read
Oshkosh Defense LLC, a subsidiary of Oshkosh Corporation has been awarded an $89 million contract by the U.S. Army Contracting Command – Detroit Arsenal (ACC-DTA) to supply advanced Palletized Load System (PLS) A2 vehicles, kits, and installations. This latest order under the Family of Heavy Tactical Vehicles (FHTV) program marks a significant step forward in the Army’s effort to modernize its heavy tactical fleet with cutting-edge technologies that improve soldier safety, operational efficiency, and battlefield readiness.
Strengthening the Army’s Heavy Tactical Fleet
The PLS A2 represents the next generation of the Army’s logistics vehicles, designed to deliver enhanced capability, protection, and flexibility across diverse operational environments. It builds upon the proven legacy of the original Palletized Load System, which has long been the backbone of the Army’s heavy transport and resupply operations.
Equipped with by-wire functionality to enable autonomous operation and active safety systems, the PLS A2 enhances soldier safety and operational efficiency, especially in multi-domain battlefields where logistics and sustainment are increasingly complex. These advanced technologies support the Army’s broader goal of ensuring reliable supply chains and mobility across dispersed and contested terrains.
Designed for Future-readiness
A key advantage of the PLS A2 is its open architecture design, which allows seamless integration of emerging technologies. This flexibility ensures that the vehicle can accommodate new systems and upgrades over its lifecycle, aligning directly with the U.S. Army’s long-term modernization objectives.
“The PLS A2 is not only a logistics enabler but also a technology platform for the Army’s evolving mission needs,” said Pat Williams, Chief Programs Officer for Oshkosh Defense. “This award underscores our commitment to partnering with the Army to modernize the heavy tactical fleet quickly and at scale. Together, we are delivering next-generation capabilities that keep Soldiers safer for today’s missions while providing a foundation for the future fight.”
Enhancing Efficiency Through Common Components
The PLS A2 program is part of the Army’s broader Family of Heavy Tactical Vehicles (FHTV) initiative, which also includes the Heavy Expanded Mobility Tactical Truck (HEMTT) A4. Through FHTV, the Army benefits from the use of common militarized commercial components, helping reduce lifecycle costs and streamline maintenance and logistics.
By leveraging shared systems and components, Oshkosh Defense enables the Army to rapidly modernize and sustain its heavy vehicle fleet. This approach ensures interoperability, easier training for operators and maintainers, and greater cost efficiency throughout the fleet’s lifecycle.
Accelerating Modernization Through Recapitalization
Another major advantage of the FHTV program is the Army’s ability to recapitalize existing vehicles—modernizing and upgrading those already in service rather than replacing them entirely. This strategy significantly reduces costs and accelerates the delivery of advanced capabilities to soldiers in the field.
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Under the FHTV V contract, the Army will have the option to procure vehicles, including the PLS A2, through August 2029. This long-term framework ensures sustained support for modernization efforts, enabling the Army to maintain readiness and logistical superiority in a rapidly changing defense environment.
A Partner in Army Transformation
With the latest order, Oshkosh Defense continues to demonstrate its pivotal role in the U.S. Army’s modernization strategy. The PLS A2 embodies the company’s commitment to delivering innovation, reliability, and mission-focused engineering—helping soldiers stay equipped, protected, and prepared for both current and future operational challenges.
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