The U.S. Marines put a new amphibious combat vehicle (ACV) to the test this month, subjecting it to maneuverability and performance tests during low-light and night operations at Camp Pendleton, Calif.
“I am loyal to tracks, but the more I learn about these vehicles, the more impressed I get with all its features and how it will improve our warfighting capabilities,” David Sandvold, the director of operations for the Marines’ Amphibious Vehicle Test Branch, said.
The ACV is slated to replace the existing amphibious assault vehicle (AAV) beginning this year. The AAV has been the standard for marines since 1972, operating during both ship-to-shore missions and amphibious assaults. As such, this month’s tests involved hours spent amidst the Southern California surf and out on the open ocean.
There will be four variants of the ACV meant for different situations, including the recovery variant, a command and control variant, and an armed variant capable of engaging enemy armored vehicles. All sport wheels instead of tracks — a major difference from the AAV. The Corps. notes that the ACV is capable of driving through high surf, as well as over trenches and sloped terrain. It also has some protection against direct attacks, is designed to deflect blasts from improvised explosive devices, while being able to deliver fire support in return.
“It’s a huge difference on how the ACV and the AAV drive and handle,” Marine Sgt. Fernando Alvarez, an AAV operator with AVTB, said. “The main difference (with wheels) is that it’s a lot faster on land. But instead of pivoting like the AAV, we have to make three-point turns now, which is not a problem.”