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New Hybrid Tactical Vehicle NGTV-H Providing Stealth and Energy Efficiency to US Army.
The US Army has taken a step in modernizing its tactical capabilities by testing the Next Generation Tactical Vehicle-Hybrid (NGTV-H) during the Combined Resolve 25-1 exercise. This advanced light reconnaissance vehicle, developed by GM Defense, incorporates a diesel-electric hybrid propulsion system designed to address the evolving challenges of modern combat environments. The exercise, held at the Joint Multinational Readiness Center in Hohenfels, Germany, brought together approximately 4,000 military personnel from the United States and 15 allied European nations. It served as both a testing ground for cutting-edge military technologies and a platform for interoperability among NATO partners. These efforts align with the US Army’s broader Transforming in Contact initiative, which seeks to integrate innovative systems and technologies to enhance warfighting readiness and adaptability in the face of evolving threats.
The NGTV-H is designed to address the shifting demands of modern warfare, where mobility, adaptability, and energy efficiency are key priorities (Picture source: US DOD)
The NGTV-H was introduced behind closed doors at the AUSA 2024 event, and its inclusion in Combined Resolve 25-1 marks the first large-scale testing of its capabilities in realistic operational conditions. This vehicle is expected to make its first public international debut at IDEX 2025 in Abu Dhabi, signaling its importance not only for the US Army but also for potential allied adoption. The NGTV-H is equipped with a 12-module advanced battery pack and electric motors on both the front and rear axles. This hybrid configuration provides the vehicle with Silent Drive and Silent Watch capabilities, enabling it to operate with minimal noise and a reduced thermal signature. These features are particularly advantageous for reconnaissance and infiltration missions in high-risk environments, where stealth is essential for operational success.
The Silent Watch capability allows the NGTV-H to remain stationary and operational for extended periods, powering its onboard systems without emitting detectable heat or sound. This feature is increasingly critical as modern battlefields become more transparent due to the proliferation of advanced surveillance technologies, such as drones and thermal imaging systems. The vehicle’s ability to maintain a low profile while supporting observation missions enhances its utility in diverse tactical scenarios.
Staff Sgt. Nicholas Chavez, an air traffic control specialist with the 3rd Brigade, 10th Mountain Division, described the vehicle’s features and capabilities in a video released by the US Army. He emphasized the NGTV-H’s potential to improve operational efficiency and survivability for infantry units. In addition to its stealth and mobility, the vehicle provides exportable power for soldier equipment and other tactical systems. This includes powering unmanned aerial systems (UAS), advanced sensors, and command post operations. By reducing reliance on external generators, the NGTV-H enhances the logistical flexibility of deployed units, ensuring they can operate effectively in remote or contested environments.
Combined Resolve 25-1 provided soldiers with the opportunity to interact with the NGTV-H in a simulated combat environment, allowing them to assess its performance under realistic conditions. JD Johnson, Vice President of Government Solutions and Strategy at GM Defense, highlighted the importance of these field tests. He noted that soldier feedback is invaluable for refining the vehicle’s design and ensuring it meets the practical needs of those on the front lines. Johnson also emphasized that the NGTV-H has been well-received, particularly for its Silent Drive capability, low thermal signature, and ability to power essential systems within infantry brigades. These features not only enhance mission effectiveness but also provide a technological edge in increasingly complex and contested operational environments.
The NGTV-H is designed to address the shifting demands of modern warfare, where mobility, adaptability, and energy efficiency are key priorities. Its hybrid propulsion system represents a significant departure from traditional internal combustion engine vehicles, offering both environmental and operational benefits. The reduced fuel consumption and enhanced energy autonomy of the NGTV-H make it a more sustainable option for extended deployments, while its ability to navigate difficult terrain and power advanced systems ensures it remains a versatile asset for infantry units.
In addition to its technical capabilities, the NGTV-H is part of a broader strategy to modernize the US Army’s tactical fleet. The Transforming in Contact initiative aims to integrate emerging technologies to improve situational awareness, decision-making, and operational effectiveness. By incorporating vehicles like the NGTV-H, the Army is better positioned to respond to a wide range of threats, from near-peer adversaries to asymmetric conflicts. The lessons learned during Combined Resolve 25-1 will play a crucial role in shaping the future of this initiative, ensuring that the NGTV-H and similar platforms are optimized for real-world deployment.
In conclusion, the NGTV-H represents a significant advancement in the US Army’s efforts to modernize its tactical capabilities. Its combination of stealth, energy efficiency, and technological integration makes it a valuable asset for addressing the challenges of contemporary and future battlefields. The vehicle’s successful testing during Combined Resolve 25-1 demonstrates its potential to enhance mission effectiveness and operational flexibility for infantry units. As the NGTV-H prepares for its international debut at IDEX 2025, it is poised to play a central role in the ongoing transformation of military capabilities, both within the United States and among its allies.