BAE Systems Unveils Versatile Fourth AMPV Prototype at Eurosatory

BAE Systems showcases its fourth AMPV prototype at Eurosatory, featuring a common top plate that highlights the vehicle’s modularity and adaptability for international military needs.

BAE Systems is showcasing its fourth Armored Multi-Purpose Vehicle (AMPV) prototype at the Eurosatory defense exhibition. This latest prototype, equipped with a common top plate, highlights the vehicle's modularity and future-proof design. The common top plate, also known as the External Mission Equipment Package (ExMEP), allows the AMPV to integrate various capabilities and equipment packages, making it adaptable for different international military needs.

The featured prototype at Eurosatory includes Oshkosh Defense's Medium Caliber Weapon System (MCWS), a 30mm weapon system set for deployment with the U.S. Army’s Stryker Brigade Combat Teams. The AMPV's ExMEP is versatile enough to support more than 30 different turret systems, ensuring that the vehicle can be customized to meet diverse operational requirements.

Bill Sheehy, AMPV program director for BAE Systems, emphasized the importance of this capability for U.S. allies and NATO partners. "The adaptability of the AMPV design means we can quickly and efficiently integrate new capabilities, proving the platform's future-proofed design," he said.

BAE Systems has previously demonstrated the AMPV's versatility by integrating a Counter-Unmanned Aircraft System (C-UAS) prototype in November 2023 and delivering a 120mm unmanned Turreted Mortar capability to the U.S. Army in January 2024. In March 2024, the AMPV NxT prototype, featuring a 30mm turret, was showcased at the AUSA Global Force event. All these prototypes utilized the common top plate, underscoring the platform’s modularity.

The U.S. Army recently awarded BAE Systems a $754 million contract to continue manufacturing the AMPV Family of Vehicles (FoV), ensuring full-rate production through February 2027. This follows an initial $797 million contract awarded in August 2023. The five AMPV variants currently in production offer enhanced survivability and performance compared to the older M113 FoV, making the AMPV a low-risk, cost-effective solution for modern military needs.

The AMPV’s modular chassis and commonality make it a versatile and reliable platform ready to support troops in various combat scenarios. BAE Systems is committed to discussing how quickly and effectively the AMPV can be adapted for different roles with allied nations.