The U.S. Army Contracting Command–Detroit Arsenal has placed an $89 million order for new PLS A2 vehicles, along with related kits and installations, under the Family of Heavy Tactical Vehicles V (FHTV V) program. Oshkosh Defense, the manufacturer, describes the PLS A2 as “autonomy-ready”, aligning with the Army’s push toward logistics operations capable of functioning in contested and high-risk environments. The FHTV V framework ensures a steady supply of tactical vehicles through 2029, shaping how combat brigades receive ammunition, fuel, and modular cargo during intensive operations.
The FHTV program covers a range of heavy-duty platforms, including the Heavy Expanded Mobility Tactical Truck A4 (HEMTT A4). Its goal is to maintain vehicle families sharing common commercial components, streamlining maintenance, training, and sustainment. The Army’s recapitalization approach—modernizing older trucks to A2 standards—enables incremental fleet modernization rather than abrupt replacements, ensuring predictable logistics performance even under operational stress.
At a technical level, the PLS A2 design centers on three key enhancements. First, its drive-by-wire systems enable future autonomous and leader-follower convoy operations. Second, active driver assistance features improve safety and efficiency in challenging terrains. Finally, an open digital architecture allows integration of next-generation autonomy kits or protection modules without major redesigns. Together, these upgrades ensure the Army’s logistics vehicles remain adaptable, efficient, and future-ready.
