Next-Generation Joint Light Tactical Vehicle A2 (JLTV A2), USA

The next-generation Joint Light Tactical Vehicle A2 (JLTV A2) is designed to address mission requirements across the spectrum of military operations.

Developed by the military mobility solutions company AM General, the JLTV A2 is available in variants including the general-purpose (GP) vehicle, the utility vehicle, the heavy guns carrier (HGC), the trailer and the tow.

The JLTV A2 can be transported by CH-47 and CH-53 helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft, and inside amphibious transports.

In June 2024, AM General announced that the new JLTV A2 Utility variant was exhibited at the Eurosatory 2024 event in Paris, France.

Joint Light Tactical Vehicle A2 design and features

AM General combined its expertise in light tactical vehicles (LTV) with advanced manufacturing processes to design the JLTV A2, which features technical upgrades created to meet a range of mission needs.

The JLTV A2 features two and four-person blast-protected seats and an automatic fire suppression system.

The baseline integration kit is engineered to maximise packaging efficiency, creating additional cargo space for essential mission equipment. The redesigned interior and exterior boost usability, while the reconfiguration of electrical harness routings and fuel lines enhances accessibility and maintenance efficiency.

To address corrosion problems identified in previous A1 vehicles, the JLTV A2 includes enhanced corrosion protection for key automotive systems. This measure helps avoid cracks and breakage in critical structural areas, enhancing overall reliability. The new protection system surpasses the 30-year corrosion resistance standard.

Future advancements for the platform will feature a streamlined user interface and cutting-edge software designed to accommodate upcoming enhancements, upgrades and integrations.

Propulsion

The JLTV A2 is equipped with a MY 2024 L5P Duramax turbo diesel engine paired with an Allison 2500SP six-speed automatic transmission.

It also features an upgraded engine control module, which is the same model found in commercial heavy-duty trucks.

The front-end accessory drive has been redesigned to improve the belt’s lifespan. The JLTV A2 features updated transmission gear coding that enhances shifting and maximises fuel efficiency.

Suspension system

JLTV A2’s 4×4 independent suspension system delivers optimal off-road performance, improved acceleration and better speed on slopes. Its adjustable height suspension enables it to fit on maritime prepositioning force/amphibious ships.

Battery system

The vehicle is equipped with a single lithium-ion battery, replacing the two larger and heavier lead-acid batteries used in the A1 platform.

The new battery system is integrated into an advanced electrical architecture that sets the stage for future hybridisation of the vehicles.

The vehicle also features an advanced power distribution unit designed to optimise and regulate the electrical loads across the system.

Variants

The JLTV A2 GP variant is a four-crew base vehicle, while the utility variant is a two-crew cargo delivery or shelter carrier.

The JLTV A2 Utility variant is equipped with the deFNder medium remote weapon station from FN Firearms, a provider of firearms for military customers. The weapon station is designed for self-defence, infantry fire support and long-range combat missions.

The HGC variant offers space for a crew of four. It features a gunner in the turret and accommodates standard crew-served weapons, equipped with a gunner’s protection kit.

The trailer (JLTV-T) variant features a steel deck with removable aluminium sidewalls and a tailgate. It has a payload capacity of 5,100lb.

The tow close combat weapons carrier variant accommodates four crew members. It has a gunner in the turret and supports anti-tank and anti-armour heavy weapons with a gunner’s protection kit.

JLTV A2 orders

The US Army granted AM General a production contract worth more than $8.66bn in February 2023 to deliver next-generation JLTV A2 vehicles, under the US Army and the US Marine Corps’ Joint Light Tactical Vehicle (JLTV) programme.

Under the contract, the company will produce approximately 20,682 JLTV vehicles and 9,883 trailers. The contract also includes the integration of technological enhancements for delivery to the US Armed Forces.

Oshkosh Defense won the initial contract to supply its JLTV vehicles for the programme.

Contractors involved

In March 2023, Allison Transmission, a propulsion solutions provider, received a contract to supply the Allison 2500 Specialty Series (SP) transmission for the JLTV A2.

Plasan North America (PNA), an advanced survivability solutions provider, was selected by AM General as a subcontractor for the JLTV A2 programme in July 2023.

The subcontract, worth $300m over five years, is for the subcomponents of the armoured cab.