Oshkosh Defense has secured an $89-million U.S. Army contract to manufacture Palletized Load System (PLS) A2 trucks, along with necessary kits and installations.
The order was placed through the Army Contracting Command in Detroit under the Family of Heavy Tactical Vehicles (FHTV) program, scheduled to run until August 2029.
Built for moving supplies and heavy equipment in combat zones, the PLS A2 incorporates advanced drive-by-wire controls, paving the way for future autonomous functions. It also integrates safety features to protect crews and uses an open design that allows for seamless upgrades as technology advances.
First fielded in the 1990s, the PLS platform has undergone several iterations to match operational requirements. The latest variant is operated by a two-person crew, measures 36 feet (11 meters) long, and carries payloads of up to 14,965 kilograms (32,992 pounds).
With a 600-horsepower Caterpillar C15 engine, Allison 4500SP transmission, and 704-liter fuel capacity, the PLS A2 delivers a 300-mile (483-km) range and speeds up to 100 km/h (62 mph), ensuring reliable logistics support in demanding missions.
