In a strategic move to advance the U.S. Army’s combat capabilities, BAE Systems has joined forces with Forterra to create a prototype autonomous Armored Multi-Purpose Vehicle (AMPV). This collaboration, the first of its kind under BAE’s new modular “capability kits” program, aims to equip military vehicles with advanced technology to counter evolving threats such as drones and electronic warfare. The goal is to have a functional prototype ready for testing by 2026.
The project will leverage Forterra’s proprietary AutoDrive autonomous driving system. This integrated technology package, which combines sophisticated sensors, software, and hardware, is designed to enable vehicles to navigate complex environments independently, travel between designated points, and coordinate movements with other autonomous platforms. Notably, AutoDrive’s compatibility extends beyond the AMPV to other key Army assets like the Bradley Fighting Vehicle and the Paladin howitzer.
The AMPV itself is the modern successor to the Army’s aging M113 personnel carriers. Based on a turretless Bradley chassis, it is a versatile platform existing in several variants, including command post, mortar carrier, and medical evacuation roles. The vehicle is a formidable asset, measuring 20 feet long, constructed with welded aluminum armor, and powered by a 600-horsepower engine that allows for speeds over 37 mph.
This development is supported by ongoing production contracts. BAE Systems was recently awarded a $139.5 million contract in August 2025 to continue AMPV production, following a $184-million modification in October 2024. With the total program value now exceeding $2.28 billion, work continues at BAE’s facility in York, Pennsylvania, with an estimated completion date of 2028.
