ST Kinetics and Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC) have joined forces to participate in the US Marine Corps (USMC) Marine Personnel Carrier (MPC) programme.
SAIC Landforce Systems operation manager and senior vice president Dan Zanini said the team will base its offering on the modern Terrex 8×8 Armoured Personnel Carrier already fielded by the Singapore Armed Forces.
"By using existing and proven technology, tailored to Marine expeditionary requirements, we will be able to quickly deliver a simple, elegant, enduring and USMC-usable capability to meet the programme’s critical needs and schedule," Zanini added.
ST Kinetics executive vice president and chief marketing officer Patrick Choy said: "We are confident that the advanced design of the Terrex, particularly in the areas of survivability and crew habitability, will underpin an effective and affordable solution usable by the US Marines in a myriad of tough environments."
The advanced eight-wheeled highly protected and swim-capable armoured personnel carrier will provide USMC infantry formations with balanced performance, protection, and payload, while ensuring effectiveness across a full range of military missions.
As per the agreement, the prime contractor for the MPC programme will be SAIC.
The MPC programme is scheduled for seven years with production of nearly 100 units annually while the testing and demonstration phase initial awards are expected in April 2012.
ST Kinetics’ Terrex is capable of carrying a remote control weapon system (RCWS) armed with a 0.5" HMG, a coaxial 40mm/7.62MG or a 30mm cannon, and features an integrated camera for enhanced situational awareness and mine blast protection.
Image: The USMC Marine Personnel Carrier is based on Singapore’s Terrex 8×8 Armoured Personnel Carrier. Photo: Limkopi.
