The U.S. Department of Defense announced that a contract has been awarded to DRS Sustainment Systems worth $17.2 million for the acquisition of Joint Assault Bridges.
This is a modification to an existing contract: Leonardo DRS was awarded a production contract in May 2016 for up to 273 JAB systems plus related testing and support. The company is partnered with Anniston Army Depot and Israel Military Industries (IMI). The production will take place in West Plains, Mo., and the deliveries are expected to be completed by May 2024.
The JAB (Joint Assault Bridge) is based on an M1A1 Abrams chassis (Picture source: Leonardo DRS)
The JAB (Joint Assault Bridge) is used by Army Mobility Augmentation Companies and Brigade Engineer Battalions to provide assault-bridging support to Armored Brigade Combat Teams. The JAB is based on the M1A1 Abrams tank hull with an upgraded suspension system from the M1A2 integrated with the hydraulic bridge launcher system. So far, it uses the AVLB (Armored Vehicle Launched Bridge) in the Military Load Class 85 “Scissor” Bridge category, designed for fast placement of bridge sections that can handle any Army vehicle.
The JAB will replace existing AVLB chassis assault bridging vehicles on a one-for-one basis. The Army plans to eventually field 337 JABs to its engineer and transportation units.
Leonardo DRS’ Joint Assault Bridge provides a robust, reliable system with commander's vision, rapid assault launch/retrieve capability, and superior mobility by maintaining the center of gravity close to the M1A2 Abrams main battle tank. The JAB bridging technology solves a long-standing Army capability gap.
