GM Defense and Mistral Inc. collaborate to upgrade the Light Tactical Utility Vehicle (LTUV) with a cutting-edge loitering munition system, enhancing agility and lethality for military operations. The integration of the UVision Hero 120 drone offers precision targeting and adaptability, setting a new standard in military technology.
GM Defense has partnered with Maryland-based Mistral Inc. to upgrade the Light Tactical Utility Vehicle (LTUV) with a cutting-edge loitering munition system. The LTUV, built on the Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison pickup truck, incorporates various commercial off-the-shelf components to enhance its off-road capabilities. Additionally, the LTUV includes the "Chevrolet Performance" upgrade, initially developed to modernize car parts for race teams, ensuring robust performance in challenging conditions.
Mistral Inc. will integrate the UVision Hero 120, a kamikaze drone designed to target enemy assets while keeping soldiers out of direct harm. The Hero 120 loitering munition weighs 14.5 kilograms (32 pounds) and features a 4.5-kilogram (10-pound) warhead. It boasts a flight endurance of up to 60 minutes, a range of 60 kilometers (37 miles), a maximum operational ceiling of 3,000 feet (914 meters), and can operate in temperatures as low as -28 degrees Celsius (-18.4 Fahrenheit).
John Johnson, VP of Business Development at GM Defense, highlighted the increasing demand for light tactical wheeled vehicles that offer agility, speed, and lethality. He stated, "Our collaboration with Mistral demonstrates the versatility of our utility concept vehicle and its ability to enhance the tactical capabilities of warfighters."
The LTUV will support sustained operations in challenging environments, backed by GM Defense’s extensive global supply chain for maintenance. The vehicle's rear cargo bed can be configured for various missions, including logistics, command and control, electronic warfare, and counter-unmanned aircraft systems. Furthermore, the platform can carry the Hero 120’s Expeditionary Multi-Canister Launcher, enabling rapid and effective multiple firings.
Yoav Banai, VP at Mistral, remarked, "This integration sets a new standard in military technology, providing the US Army and allied forces with an unparalleled combination of mobility, precision, and adaptability. Our collaboration with GM Defense reflects our commitment to advancing military capabilities and addressing evolving battlefield challenges."
The partnership between GM Defense and Mistral Inc. underscores the strategic importance of integrating advanced technologies to meet modern military needs. The enhanced LTUV with the Hero 120 loitering munition system is poised to offer significant tactical advantages to the US Army and allied forces.
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