Article Posted on : - Aug 19, 2010

The PLS A1 cargo vehicle. An Oshkosh photo

OSHKOSH, US (BNS): US Army has received the first batch of 11 next-generation PLS A1 cargo vehicles from Oshkosh Corporation.

The new Palletized Load Systems (PLS) features design improvements creating a more secure and robust vehicle for logistics missions that face increased combat exposure.

The newly-designed PLS A1 vehicle features a Long Term Armor Strategy (LTAS)-compliant cab, a 600-horsepower engine and a six-speed transmission.

It also uses the Oshkosh-patented TAK-4® independent suspension on the front axle positions, which provides greater off-road mobility and enhances protection in harsh terrain, Oshkosh said.

The PLS vehicles have been designed to load and unload a variety of heavy-payload cargo, including ammunition and other critical supplies in the battlefield.

US Army has placed an order for over 725 PLS vehicles with Oshkosh under its Family of Heavy Tactical Vehicles (FHTV) contract.

Production of this order is scheduled to be completed in September 2011, the company said.