BAE Systems will provide lightweight bar-armor kits for 215 U.S. Army Route Clearance Vehicles under a contract with a not-to-exceed value of $14.5 million. Under the contract from the Army's Tank-automotive Armaments Command, BAE Systems will equip RG31 and Cougar vehicles with its L-ROD aluminum armor, used widely on Army Buffalo ordnance disposal vehicles.
"We developed the L-ROD system as a low-cost and lightweight solution to protect vehicles against rocket-propelled grenades (RPGs)," said Dr. Jim Galambos, director of business development for BAE Systems' Advanced Technologies organization. "Our selection for the RG31 and Cougar demonstrates the easy adaptability of this system to just about any type of vehicle."
L-ROD is a modular system made of lightweight aluminum alloy that protects vehicles without adding significant additional weight or compromising their operational capabilities. The system weighs less than half of comparable steel designs and is bolted to the vehicle, avoiding the need for welding or cutting. It also can be repaired easily in the field.
