Members of Congress either celebrated or criticized the Army’s announcement Tuesday night that Oshkosh Defense would build the replacement for the Humvee because of the $6.7 billion contract’s effect on their state’s economy, not the merit of the program overall.
Sen. Tom Cotton, R-Ark., said he was “disappointed” that Lockheed Martin, based in his home state, was not selected to build the Army’s latest project, but that the new armored vehicle is a necessary improvement that will protect troops no matter where it’s manufactured.
“Camden is a first-rate facility and the people who work there are some of the best in the world, I know they would have put their hearts and souls into this project,” Cotton said in a statement. “I am confident the work and infrastructure Lockheed Martin put in place to bid on this project will bring other economic benefits.”
Sen. Ron Johnson, R-Wis., on the other hand, congratulated Oshkosh Defense, based in Oshkosh, on winning the contract for the Joint Light Tactical Vehicle program.
“These new vehicles will provide improved durability to protect our men and women in uniform while maintaining the mobility they need. The entire team at Oshkosh Corporation should be proud of this achievement, and for its continued leadership and innovation,” Johnson said.
The Army will receive 49,099 vehicles and the Marine Corps will receive 5,500. The Marines will get their vehicles first, with Army procurement lasting until 2040, the Army release said.
The Army selected Oshkosh Defense after testing 22 prototype vehicles from each of the three competing companies for 14 months.
The vehicle will be built to offer mobility, but also protection from roadside bombs, Army Times reported.
