The United States Marine Corps is embarking on a significant modernization effort by replacing its aging fleet of medium tactical vehicles. Instead of fully embracing all-electric vehicles, the Marines are setting their sights on hybrid technology. This move aims to bring a new level of efficiency and operational capability to their ground operations. The goal is to equip the force with trucks capable of powering tools and weapons with near-silent operation, enhancing their tactical advantage in the field. This transition marks a crucial step in aligning military technology with both performance and energy efficiency requirements.
The Medium Tactical Truck (MTT) program is the Marine Corps’ initiative to find a modern replacement for its current medium-duty trucks. The second phase of this program involves a competition between two leading companies: Mack Trucks and ND Defense. Mack Trucks secured a $16 million contract to develop two prototypes, while ND Defense received $17.2 million to construct its hybrid truck prototype. Both companies are tasked with completing their prototypes by May of the following year. Following this, an eight-month performance testing phase will determine which company will be awarded the manufacturing contract, with testing extending into the fiscal year 2027.
| Company | Contract Award | Prototype Delivery | Testing Completion |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mack Trucks | $16 Million | May Next Year | Fiscal Year 2027 |
| ND Defense | $17.2 Million | May Next Year | Fiscal Year 2027 |
The key differentiator of the new MTT vehicles is their hybrid powertrains, which enable a silent power supply capability. The Marine Corps aims to reduce fuel consumption, extend operational range, and facilitate silent watch operations. These trucks are also expected to provide between 10 and 30 kilowatts of power to external systems. This capability is crucial for powering equipment in the field without the noise associated with traditional generators, enhancing the stealth and efficiency of military operations. The integration of hybrid technology marks a strategic move towards more sustainable and tactically advantageous military vehicles.
Mack Trucks is developing its prototypes based on the current Granite platform, customizing them to meet the specific requirements of the Marine Corps. As part of the MTT program’s second phase, Mack Trucks, owned by the Volvo Group, will construct a 4×4 configuration with a 10-foot cargo bed and a 6×6 configuration with a 20-foot bed. These vehicles will feature extensive onboard power storage and generation capabilities, along with exportable power for other military systems. Additionally, they will include modern amenities such as collision avoidance, blind-spot detection, and traction control with anti-lock brakes, enhancing safety and operational effectiveness.
ND Defense is basing its prototype on the Atlas platform, which is available in various configurations ranging from 4×2 to 8×8. The Atlas platform’s versatility allows ND Defense to tailor the vehicle to the Marine Corps’ specific needs, providing a flexible solution that can be adapted for different operational requirements. This adaptability is crucial for meeting the diverse demands of tactical support missions, ensuring the vehicle can perform effectively in various scenarios.
| Feature | Mack Trucks (Granite Platform) | ND Defense (Atlas Platform) |
|---|---|---|
| Configurations | 4×4, 6×6 | 4×2 to 8×8 |
| Cargo Bed Lengths | 10-foot, 20-foot | Various (depending on configuration) |
| Key Features | Collision avoidance, blind-spot detection | Adaptable to mission-specific needs |
The Marine Corps’ decision to pursue hybrid technology for its next generation of tactical vehicles is driven primarily by operational energy concerns. According to Stephen Bowdren, Program Executive Officer Land Systems, minimizing the amount of fuel required for operations is a critical factor. While climate considerations are secondary, the reduction in fuel consumption and the ability to conduct silent watch operations are highly valued. This strategic focus on hybrid technology reflects the Marine Corps’ commitment to enhancing its tactical capabilities and reducing its logistical footprint.
