Navistar Defense recently awarded Hendrickson and AxleTech International a contract to equip 2,717 International MaxxPro Long Wheel Base (LWB) Mine Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicles with independent suspension systems.
The order continues the companies’ work to enhance the capability of the entire MaxxPro fleet, which recently included procurement of new MaxxPro Dash vehicles and the MaxxPro Dash ambulance variant.
The integrated independent suspension system for the MaxxPro LWB MRAP incorporates Hendrickson’s advanced engineered sub-frames, sway-bars, coil springs and shocks with AxleTech’s 5000 Series Independent Suspension Axle System (ISAS). The system delivers improved mobility in rough terrain, better control and greater wheel travel to improve driver efficiency at higher off-road speeds, according to the companies.
As the Tier 1 supplier, Hendrickson will supply the completed suspension systems to Navistar for installation on the MRAP vehicles, which will ultimately be delivered to the U.S. Army. Production work for the MaxxPro upgrades is conducted at Hendrickson’s Kendallville, Ind., facility and AxleTech’s Oshkosh, Wis., plant. Deliveries began in January 2012 and will be completed in October 2013.
“Hendrickson and Navistar Defense’s long-standing and strong cooperative relationship has once again produced a highly-engineered, advanced vehicle capable of protecting our military and allowing them to perform and excel in harsh environments,” said Doug Sanford, the vice president and general manager of Hendrickson’s Truck Suspension Systems. “We have teamed with AxleTech to supply highly engineered and technologically advanced components for the MaxxPro program. Our leading-edge independent suspension design and vehicle integration expertise, coupled with Navistar Defense’s strength in developing durable, rugged military vehicles, has produced a revolutionary MRAP vehicle platform.”
“The AxleTech/Hendrickson system will modernize and standardize the suspension system of the Army’s MaxxPro fleet,” said Gerry Giudici, vice president and general manager of AxleTech International. “In partnership with Hendrickson, we are delivering a world-class product that enhances the vehicle’s mobility, ride control, handling and safety.”
AxleTech International
www.axletech.com