Mack Defense chooses BAE Systems for alternative propulsion system on U.S. Army Common Tactical Truck prototypes

Mack Defense has teamed with BAE Systems, a leader in heavy-duty electric propulsion, to deliver an alternative-propulsion solution for the Common Tactical Truck (CTT) prototype vehicles to the U.S. Army for testing. BAE Systems supplied its Gen3 propulsion and accessories power management systems to Mack Defense for integration on the truck variants to drastically reduce fuel demand.

“The U.S. Army requested industry to provide solutions to maximize operational efficiency of the Common Tactical Truck in areas such as fuel demand reduction in order to help inform the final requirements for the program,” says David Hartzell, president of Mack Defense. “BAE Systems brings extensive experience in electrified propulsion technologies for commercial and military platforms – delivering a best-in-class solution for this program.”

BAE Systems’ Gen3 solution includes an electric motor/generator and innovative power electronics to create a more efficient mode of transportation for the trucks. The company’s latest electric drive technology uses advanced materials, such as silicon carbide, and increases electrical efficiency for enhanced vehicle performance. This system provides improved fuel economy for the vehicles, an extended anti-idle operation capability and exportable power.

BAE Systems has more than 25 years of experience developing and integrating electric propulsion systems for transit buses, boats, heavy-duty trucks, and military vehicles. The company has more than 16,000 power and propulsion systems in operation worldwide. BAE Systems has fielded similar systems to other Volvo Group companies, and Mack Defense has been able to leverage this experience and apply it to the CTT program.

“Our next-generation system leverages advanced technologies and proven, commercial-based components which will help modernize the U.S. Army’s Tactical Truck fleet,” says Bob Lamanna, vice president and general manager of Power & Propulsion Solutions at BAE Systems. “BAE Systems’ scalable design is a future-proof solution, which will not only improve fuel efficiency, but also provide the U.S. Army with a higher level of commonality, allowing for the quick integration of emerging capabilities.”

Mack Defense received a prototype contract for the first phase in the U.S. Army’s CTT program in January 2023. The prototypes will be tested and evaluated to determine the final requirements for the next generation of trucks to begin modernization and replacement of the U.S. Army’s fleet of approximately 35,000 heavy tactical trucks, which perform a wide range of combat logistics, support, and service support missions.