Ottawa, Canada -- Textron Systems Canada Inc., a Textron Inc. company, and Rheinmetall Canada Inc. today announced a teaming arrangement in pursuit of the Department of National Defence (DND) and Canadian Forces Tactical Armoured Patrol Vehicle (TAPV) program. The DND is expected to award a contract to procure up to 500 vehicles with an option for up to 100 more.

Textron's proposed TAPV, specifically engineered to meet Canadian Forces requirements, draws on the company's more than 45 years of experience in the design and production of armoured vehicles. Building from the very successful Armoured Security Vehicle platform, Textron's TAPV is designed to deliver the best blend of survivability, mobility, versatility and lethality for a broad spectrum of operations in the world's most challenging environments.

The comprehensive, modern design of Textron's TAPV is aimed at shielding troops from roadside bombs and blasts while providing large power reserves for future electronics enhancements, with an ergonomically-designed interior for optimum comfort and payload. The vehicle has been tested extensively to confirm ballistic, blast, mobility and reliability levels that meet or exceed Canadian Forces requirements.

If awarded the TAPV project, Textron Systems Canada, as prime contractor, would provide overall program and configuration management, act as the design authority for change management, coordinate vehicle integration activities by Canadian subcontractors, provide long term product support, and implement the Industrial Regional Benefits program.

"Textron plans to engage Canadian companies for the manufacture and integration of various components, vehicle assembly and life-cycle support," said Neil Rutter, general manager of Textron Systems Canada. "These essential activities will deliver a TAPV that helps Canadian soldiers achieve their missions safely and effectively."

Under the teaming agreement, Rheinmetall Canada would perform multiple integration functions and final vehicle assembly to include the remote weapons station and government furnished equipment, and play a large role in the program's long term system support.

"We are very pleased to be part of the Textron TAPV Team," said Rheinmetall Canada President and CEO, Dr. Andreas Knackstedt. "Our partnership promises to create high-quality employment at our Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Québec facility during the acquisition phase of TAPV, and into the future as Rheinmetall Canada assists with the fleet's through-life support."

"Rheinmetall Canada is an excellent fit for the Textron TAPV Team, complementing our strengths to provide the best possible vehicle and support for Canada's soldiers for the next 25 years," added Rutter.

Textron
28.06.2011