"It is Oshkosh Truck's objective to always support the U.S. Army's drive to integrate the most capable and reliable technologies into their fleet. To that end, we're proud to make this next-generation of unmanned technology a reality that could be applied within the near term," said John Stoddart, Oshkosh executive vice president and president of defense. "Our technology allows soldiers to be taken out of convoy resupply missions or to be re-assigned to other tasks within the convoy."
The current "manned" Oshkosh PLS transportation vehicle has proven its ability in front-line supply missions in Bosnia, Kosovo, Afghanistan and Iraq. A 10-wheel-drive truck and trailer system, the PLS is designed to transport containers carrying ammunition and other critical supplies, or large tanks holding fuel or water. The original PLS and the PLS Unmanned Ground Vehicle have a 16.5 ton payload capacity and an on-board material handling system that quickly unloads and loads cargo.
"Having helped the United States military move people and supplies for more than 80 years, Oshkosh understands the needs and challenges facing the armed services and are committed to helping the United States military lead the way in realizing the benefits of autonomous vehicle technology," said Stoddart. "I believe this technology can revolutionize the transport of logistics in future conflicts and contribute to increased soldier survivability."
Oshkosh Truck Corporation is a manufacturer of specialty trucks and truck bodies for the defense, fire and emergency, concrete placement and refuse hauling markets.