US Army Places $89 Million Order for Palletized Load System A2 trucks and Kits

Oshkosh Defense reported that the U.S. Army Contracting Command–Detroit Arsenal has issued an $89 million order for Palletized Load System (PLS) A2 trucks, with associated kits and installations. The order was confirmed in an October 1, 2025, release and is placed under the Family of Heavy Tactical Vehicles (FHTV) V program, which runs until August 2029.

The PLS A2 continues the role of a heavy tactical truck with a load handling system capable of lifting and placing flatracks or containers without trailers or external lifting equipment. This system allows units to transfer loads quickly. The A2 introduces three main elements: by-wire controls that prepare the vehicle for supervised convoy operations, driver assistance features such as stability and braking support, and an open digital architecture for future upgrades.

The order is part of the wider FHTV V program, which also covers the Heavy Expanded Mobility Tactical Truck (HEMTT) A4. The program emphasizes using common militarized commercial components, which simplifies maintenance and training and reduces overall lifecycle costs. Alongside new production, the Army continues to recapitalize older trucks, updating them to current standards. This approach maintains fleet availability while spreading modernization across existing vehicles.

Most of the A2’s changes are based on electronics and control systems, which can be added through kits and installations. This allows updates to be applied without completely new vehicle builds, reducing delivery time and supporting consistent upgrades.

The Army identifies dispersed formations and extended supply routes as key operational challenges. Features such as driver assistance reduce workload and improve safety in varied conditions. By-wire controls enable leader-follower convoy operations, while the open digital framework allows new systems—such as autonomy kits or protection modules—to be integrated when ready.

This order supports the Army’s plan to keep logistics vehicles aligned with current needs while allowing for future improvements. It provides a step toward a fleet that is easier to maintain, adaptable to new technologies, and consistent with long-term sustainment goals.