Problems at Protected Vehicles deepen

MRAP builder Protected Vehicles Inc. of North Charleston, SC has filed for Chapter 11. Protected Vehicles was founded by Garth Barrett, a former Force Protection executive.

In July, Force Protection, of Ladson, SC, launched a suit claiming, among other things, computer fraud and misappropriation of trade secrets.

Of course the Marine Corps announced in December '07 that they were drastically cutting back on MRAP purchases and looking toward the JLTV.

Protected Vehicles and Rafael had developed the GOLAN MRAP platform.

Sources: Various
Photo: Protected Vehicles

MRAPs, MRAPS everywhere

In defence tech and procurement circles 2007 will probably be remembered as the Year of the MRAP, mine-resistant, ambush-protected vehicle.

High casualties in Iraq related to IEDs and landmines and the 1151 (Humvee) demanded a response and industry was quick to answer. If you subscribed to our newsletter you've heard a lot about the many different variants and the enthusiasm of American lawmakers for the program - up to $24.5 billion by FY 09. MRAPs fall into two main categories.

Category 1 vehicles are often referred to a MRUVs (Mine Resistant Utility Vehicle). These are the lighter variant designed for urban operations. Typically they are 4x4s and can hold 6 soldiers. Category 1 examples include: Armor Holdings Caiman; BAE RG-31 Nyala; International MaxxPro; and the Force Protection Cougar.

Category 2 MRAPS are 6x6 platforms that hold 10 men. They have become popular as EOD team transport and include: the BAE RG-33 Nyala; Rafael Golan;and the Force Protection Cougar HE.


DoD photo by: LCPL CHARLES HOWARD