Is BAE Systems' AMPV Ready for International Export?.

BAE Systems, during the latest Eurosatory trade show, showcased an enhanced version of its Armored Multi-Purpose Vehicle (AMPV) 30mm Prototype, also indicating its ambitions for exporting the successor to the M113. The UK-based firm plans to increase production from 130 to 220 vehicles per year significantly. This expansion will include a broader range of specialized versions, such as anti-drone warfare and command variants, which are expected to be in high demand in the market.
Follow Army Recognition on Google News at this link

The Armored Multi-Purpose Vehicle AMPV 30mm prototype at Eurosatory 2024 (Picture source: Army Recognition)

The AMPV program was initiated to provide a more survivable and modern replacement for the M113. Production has focused on supplying various specialized versions tailored to the needs of the U.S. Army. The first vehicles were delivered to the U.S. Army around 2015, following the approval of the design and initial manufacturing stages.

The AMPV is designed for survivability, mobility, and versatility. It incorporates technologies from the Bradley combat vehicle and the Paladin M109A7 Integrated Management program, ensuring compatibility with current military operations. It features enhanced armor protection, under-vehicle blast protection, and an advanced fire suppression system to improve crew survivability in combat scenarios.

The U.S. Army, which has begun deploying the AMPV, has already planned five different configurations for the vehicle, with the potential for additional versions, including one for remote operation for Robotic Combat Vehicles. Thanks to the External Mission Equipment Package (ExMEP), the AMPV can integrate over thirty different systems without major modifications to the vehicle's architecture. This flexibility could make the AMPV particularly attractive to many armed forces looking to adopt a modular platform based on a single chassis.

Each variant of the AMPV is designed to seamlessly integrate with existing and future systems of the Armored Brigade Combat Team (ABCT), ensuring that all vehicles can achieve the required mobility, protection, and mission effectiveness. The versatility and modular design of the AMPV family allow for the integration of additional technologies and capabilities as mission requirements dictate.

The anti-drone variant is still under development. In January 2024, BAE Systems announced it had successfully demonstrated an anti-drone capability on the AMPV. The anti-drone system prototype was developed in collaboration with Moog and was capable of detecting, tracking, identifying, and defeating or disabling both stationary and moving ground and aerial targets.