The United States has resumed production of the Mobile Strike Force Vehicle (MSFV) armored vehicles, a platform derived from the M1117, to fulfill a new contract intended for Ukraine.
Manufacturing is taking place at the Textron Systems facility in Louisiana and includes the delivery of 65 vehicles to the European country, strengthening its mobility and protection capabilities amid the conflict against Russia.
The production line had been shut down in 2019 after the end of programs aimed at the former Afghan National Army. Now, with funding from the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI), the platform is receiving a new operational opportunity. The contract, valued at US$163.4 million, also includes spare parts for one year and is expected to be completed by November 2028.
The MSFV is an evolution of the M1117, bringing significant improvements in protection and transport capacity. Among the upgrades are an enlarged hull, additional armor, and a reinforced structure designed to better withstand landmines and improvised explosive devices. Depending on the configuration, the vehicle can carry up to 10 soldiers, expanding its usefulness in combat operations and troop movements.
In addition to its protection improvements, the armored vehicle uses a Cummins QSL 365 diesel engine combined with a six-speed Allison automatic transmission, 4×4 all-wheel drive, and an automatic tire pressure adjustment system. The basic M1117 model has already been operating with the Ukrainian Armed Forces since 2024, and the arrival of the new MSFV versions is expected to further reinforce the fleet of Western armored vehicles in service in the country.
Source: Militarnyi | Photos: Textron Systems | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team
