AM General Confirms HUMVEE 2-CT Hawkeye 105mm Howitzer as Combat Proven in Ukraine.

On October 15, 2024, During an exclusive video interview at the AUSA 2024 defense exhibition, AM General confirmed that its HUMVEE 2-CT Hawkeye 105mm Mobile Howitzer has been combat-proven by the Ukrainian army. This marks a significant milestone, as the mobile artillery system has been tested under real combat conditions, demonstrating its effectiveness and reliability in active conflict zones.
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American Company AM General displays its HUMVEE 2-CT Hawkeye 105mm Mobile Howitzer during the AUSA 2024, defense exhibition in Washington D.C., United States. (Picture source: Army Recognition Group)

On September 13, 2024, the first visual evidence of the 2-CT Hawkeye being tested by the Ukrainian military surfaced. A photo published by the TyskNIP community on Telegram showed the mobile howitzer in action. While the exact date and location of the image were not specified, the authors suggested that it was likely taken in the spring.

The HUMVEE 2-CT Hawkeye was displayed at AM General's booth at AUSA 2024, held in Washington D.C., United States. Developed in collaboration with Mandus Group, the system features patented Soft Recoil Technology, enabling it to quickly engage targets with indirect and direct fire. Its design allows for rapid mobility, enabling the vehicle to reposition swiftly to avoid counterfire, leveraging the agility of the HUMVEE platform.

The system utilizes the M1152A1 model of the HUMVEE, a variant specifically designed as a cargo/troop carrier with enhanced payload capacity. This robust model is well-suited to accommodate the 105mm mobile howitzer system, handling the artillery's added weight while maintaining the HUMVEE's agility and speed. AM General's 105mm Howitzer mounted on the HUMVEE 2-CT™ (2-door cargo truck) is recognized as the lightest, most maneuverable self-propelled howitzer in the world. It comprises two trucks, eliminating the need for trailers, which enhances its mobility.

The 2-CT™ Hawkeye system incorporates a digital fire control system and on-board communication, eliminating the need for surveyed firing points, aiming circles, and wire lines. This capability allows the system to execute a two-round mission and vacate the area within 3 minutes, with just 1 ½ minutes to the first round fired. An accompanying support vehicle, also utilizing a HUMVEE 2-CT™, offers crush protection and safety restraints for up to four soldiers who assist artillery units.

Equipped with a 105mm M20 cannon, which is a lightweight, towed howitzer adapted for the mobile HUMVEE platform, the 2-CT Hawkeye uses Soft Recoil Technology to reduce recoil forces. This technology allows the gun to be mounted on a lighter, more mobile platform without compromising stability and accuracy, making it effective for both indirect and direct fire missions.

AM General revealed that the HUMVEE 2-CT Hawkeye is undergoing further testing in the Eastern European theater, where it is gaining attention due to increasing demand. The company views this mobile artillery system as a critical asset to counter near-peer threats, providing an effective solution for modern battlefield requirements.

The exhibition of the HUMVEE 2-CT Hawkeye at AUSA 2024 highlights AM General's commitment to innovative defense solutions, showcasing how mobility and firepower can be integrated to meet the demands of contemporary warfare.