The US Army has entered into a significant contract with Teledyne FLIR Defense, valued at $74.2 million, aimed at enhancing the capabilities of the M1135 Stryker Nuclear, Biological, and Chemical Reconnaissance Vehicles (NBCRVs). This contract follows a previous award made in November 2024, which focused on upgrading these vehicles with a modern sensor suite designed to improve anti-hazard and surveillance operations in various field environments.
Under the terms of this latest agreement, Teledyne FLIR Defense is tasked with developing six prototypes along with the necessary support services for government testing. These prototypes will integrate advanced technology, including the R80D SkyRaider unmanned aerial system and the MUVE B330 biological detection payload. The incorporation of autonomous flight control, enhanced hazard prediction software upgrades, and sophisticated sensing capabilities aims to significantly elevate the operational effectiveness of the NBCRVs.
Additionally, a custom command and control system developed by FLIR will be included to streamline sensing and automation functions. This integration is expected to enhance the decision-making processes for NBCRV operators in potentially hazardous environments, further solidifying their situational awareness on the battlefield.
Work related to this program is set to continue until 2028, with various tasks taking place at FLIR Defense facilities located in Arizona, Maryland, and Oklahoma. Notably, Dr. JihFen Lei, President of Teledyne FLIR Defense, expressed pride in extending support for this crucial US Army initiative. He emphasized the company’s commitment to equipping future operatives with enhanced capabilities to effectively detect and address a wide array of lethal threats.
The M1135 Stryker vehicle, which serves as a specialized variant of the General Dynamics M1126 Stryker transport vehicle developed in the early 2000s, is designed specifically for chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) reconnaissance. Measuring 7 meters (23 feet) in length and weighing 16,470 kilograms (36,310 pounds), the M1135 can transport up to four personnel and is armored to withstand impacts from 14.5-millimeter projectiles. Its 8×8 configuration is powered by a robust 350-horsepower Caterpillar 3126 turbo diesel engine, allowing for a top speed of 100 kilometers (62 miles) per hour and an operational range of 100 kilometers (311 miles).
Overall, this initiative stands as a testament to the ongoing evolution of military vehicle capabilities, ensuring that armed forces are equipped to meet contemporary and future threats with enhanced precision and effectiveness.
