Textron Systems exploring new opportunities in Latin America for its SCTV system

SCTV kit provides increased mobility, protection and survivability to existing HMMWVs (Textron Systems)

Colombia is interested in modernising its AM General-manufactured 4x4 High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle (HMMWV) with the SCTV (Survivable Combat Tactical Vehicle) improvement kit of Textron Systems Marine and Land Systems, the company told Defence IQ. Discussions are being held the company added.

The US-based company is working with the Colombia National Army (Ejército Nacional de Colombia) on a project for three SCTVs, which is nearing completion. Over the course of the current project, Textron Systems has trained Army personnel at their "Batallón de Mantenimiento José María Rosillo" Maintenance Battalion located in Bogotá, on integrating the SCTV modernisation kits onto the existing M1152-series HMMWV chassis. The modernised vehicle is locally designated as Vehículo Ligero Blindado Búfalo (VLBB).

Textron Systems has previously supplied Colombia with 39 off 4x4 COMMANDO Advanced armoured personnel carriers (APCs) and associated turrets, and vehicle support and repairs services according two separate contracts set up through the US Government foreign military sales (FMS) process.

The programme in Colombia could open the doors for additional business in Latin America as the HMMWV family is fielded by several nations in the region.

The company is exploring the possibility of a contract to upgrade Chile’s HMMWVs, with the Army having expressed an interest.

Textron Systems is in contact with multiple potential customers and is poised to meet demand as future sales come to fruition the company said.

The SCTV improvement kit was designed to modernise and improve both unarmoured and armoured HMMWVs by adding mine-resistant ambush protected levels of protection against improvised explosive devices (IEDs) through the use of a monocoque single fused capsule that bolts on the chassis; provision for weapon station and other mission equipment; safety equipment; high capability air conditioner; as well as upgraded suspension, brakes, engine and cooling system. The kit is available for in-country co-production.

The SCTV system was developed by US contractor Granite Tactical Vehicles, however Textron Systems purchased the technical data package in May 2015. 

Textron Systems revealed a contract with Ukrainian state-run firm SFTE SpetsTechnoExport (part of state-controlled company SC Ukroboronprom) for the sale of three SCTV kits for HMMWVs fielded by the Ukrainian military at Defence IQ's International Armoured Vehicles 2016 event.

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