US Navy Awards $329 Million Contract to Kongsberg for Amphibious Combat Vehicle Turrets
In a significant move to enhance the capabilities of the United States Marine Corps, the US Navy has awarded Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace a $329 million contract for the production of medium caliber turret systems for the Marines’ amphibious combat vehicles (ACV-30). This contract will facilitate the full-rate production of 175 Protector Remote Turret 20 (RT20) systems, which are crucial for the ACV’s armament.
The contract encompasses Lots 5 and 6 of the turret systems and includes a comprehensive range of support services. These services consist of program management, tooling development, turret hardware, software interfaces, logistics management data, and training materials. Additionally, Kongsberg will provide technical manual development and field service training to ensure proper integration and efficient fielding of the systems.
While the initial terms of the contract remain provisional, they are set to be formally finalized by February 18, 2025. The bulk of the work will be conducted in Johnstown, Pennsylvania, with an expected completion date of June 4, 2028.
The Protector RT20 turret, known for its compact and lightweight design, has been customized specifically for the US Marine Corps’ ACV 30mm cannons. This advanced system enhances crew safety and can be tailored to meet varying requirements for protection, sensor performance, and operational capabilities. A standout feature of the RT20 is its remote operation capability, which allows for easier ammunition reloading while staying protected under the vehicle’s armor. This innovative design also creates more interior space for cargo and personnel by removing the traditional ammunition basket.
Kongsberg touts the Protector turrets for their linkless ammunition handling system, which significantly minimizes the risk of jamming or operational failure. Furthermore, these turrets are equipped with a network-based fire control architecture, enabling wireless operation in conjunction with unmanned vehicles.
As the US Marines continue to modernize their fleet, the integration of Kongsberg’s state-of-the-art turret systems is set to provide enhanced firepower and operational flexibility in diverse combat scenarios.
