DRS Sustainment Systems to supply seven additional Joint Assault Bridges to U.S. Army.

DRS Sustainment Systems Inc., St. Louis, Missouri, was awarded a $9,756,178 modification to contract W56HZV-16-C-0028 to exercise seven Joint Assault Bridge Systems in Option Period Four of the contract. Work will be performed in St. Louis, Missouri, with an estimated completion date of May 11, 2024. Fiscal 2019 other procurement, Army funds in the amount of $9,756,178 were obligated at the time of the award. U.S. Army Contracting Command, Detroit Arsenal, Michigan, is the contracting activity.

The JAB (Joint Assault Bridge) is based on an M1A1 Abrams chassis (Picture source: Leonardo DRS)

The JAB (Joint Assault Bridge) is used by Army Mobility Augmentation Companies and Brigade Engineer Battalions to provide assault-bridging support to Armored Brigade Combat Teams. The JAB is based on the M1A1 Abrams tank hull with an upgraded suspension system from the M1A2 integrated with the hydraulic bridge launcher system. So far, it uses the AVLB (Armored Vehicle Launched Bridge) in the Military Load Class 85 “Scissor” Bridge category, designed for fast placement of bridge sections that can handle any Army vehicle. The JAB is replacing existing AVLB chassis assault bridging vehicles on a one-for-one basis. The Army plans to eventually field 337 JABs to its engineer and transportation units.

Leonardo DRS’ Joint Assault Bridge provides a robust, reliable system with commander's vision, rapid assault launch/retrieve capability, and superior mobility by maintaining the center of gravity close to the M1A2 Abrams main battle tank. The JAB bridging technology solves a long-standing Army capability gap.