Description:
The General Dynamics Land Systems Reconnaissance, Surveillance and Targeting Vehicle (RST-V) was developed to demonstrate hybrid electric drive technology with innovations in electric-wheel motor drive, chassis design, power management and a patented folding suspension to provide a highly mobile, survivable, long-range reconnaissance vehicle that can be transported inside a V-22 Osprey. The resulting platform will be narrower than a jeep and has a cargo capacity comparable to a HMMWV (Humvee).
The RST-V was tested at the Yuma Proving Ground, Arizona. During the tests were identified a series of feedbacks and lessons learned which will translate into improvements to make the vehicle fully compliant with the US Marine Corps (USMC) and the US Air Force Special Operations Command requirements. The most remarkable improvement was a 30 kilowatt power export capability to power battlefield loads such as Unit Operations Center (UOC) and radars.
The revolutionary hybrid electric drive system provided to the RST-V has many advantages over existing drive systems. It allows the vehicle to be operated in three propulsion modes: battery, diesel-electric, or hybrid. The diesel electric doesn't need energy store but the electric system can provide power for alternative applications such as command and control on the move. The RST-V's power generator capability has the potential to replace trailer and packaged power generators on the battlefield.
On 20 May 2005, General Dynamics Land Systems was awarded a $5.9 million contract for upgrading the RST-V in support of continued operational evaluation of the vehicle as a utility carrier, prime mover and electrical generator. The US Marine Corps will benefit from this upgraded RST-V and the upcoming operational evaluation to be conducted in early 2006 in a relevant operational environment.
Specifications Dimensions: Fuel Tank Capacity 25 gl (95 l), Ground Clearance 24 in
Weights: Max Weight 8,000 lb (3,629 kg), Payload 3,000 lb (1,361 kg)
Performance: Cross Country Speed 18 mph (29 kph), Cruise Speed 30 mph (48 kph), Fording Depth 36 in (914.40 mm), Gradient 60 %, Max Range 490 miles (788 km), Side Slope 40 %, Top Speed 70 mph (113 kph)
