US Pennsylvania National Guard to receive 324 new Stryker Double V-hull vehicles to increase crew protection.

On March 3, 2025, the Pennsylvania National Guard began receiving upgraded Strykers double-V hull (DVH) and Joint Light Tactical Vehicles (JLTVs) as part of a modernization effort for the 56th Stryker Brigade Combat Team (SBCT). The 56th SBCT is scheduled to receive 324 upgraded Stryker vehicles and 300 JLTVs to replace its flat-bottom-hull Strykers and M1097 HMMWVs with models that provide improved protection and operational capabilities.
Follow Army Recognition on Google News at this link

The double-V hull (DVH) upgrade was developed to address vulnerabilities observed in Iraq and Afghanistan, where underbody improvised explosive device (IED) attacks posed a significant threat. (Picture source: Pennsylvania National Guard)

The first batch of 25 Strykers has arrived at Fort Indiantown Gap, Pennsylvania, where they will be used for training before being assigned to units. All JLTVs will be received at Fort Indiantown Gap before distribution. The final allocation of the remaining Strykers is still being determined. A "train-the-trainer" program is planned for March to familiarize personnel with the new vehicles, alongside a field-level maintenance course focused on sustainment and servicing requirements.

The double-V hull (DVH) upgrade was developed to address vulnerabilities observed in Iraq and Afghanistan, where underbody improvised explosive device (IED) attacks posed a significant threat. The design incorporates a modified lower hull that redirects blast energy away from the vehicle to reduce structural damage and the likelihood of casualties. Combat data from Afghanistan indicated that DVH-equipped Strykers were more resistant to these threats compared to flat-bottom models. Col. Christopher Costello, commander of the 56th SBCT, noted that the DVH configuration resulted in a measurable decrease in injuries among vehicle occupants following IED incidents.

The DVH configuration includes structural reinforcements, blast-attenuating seats, an armored driver’s station, and upgraded armor protection. Additional modifications involve an improved suspension and driveline to compensate for the increased vehicle weight. Testing and analysis have confirmed that the DVH offers enhanced protection against IEDs and blast threats while maintaining mobility and operational effectiveness. The design improvements stem from lessons learned in previous deployments, where flat-bottom Strykers exhibited higher casualty rates. The revised hull shape is engineered to dissipate explosive forces more effectively to mitigate damage.

The double-V hull serves as the basis for multiple Stryker variants, including the Infantry Carrier Vehicle-Scout (ICVV-S), Mortar Carrier Vehicle (MCVV), Medical Evacuation Vehicle (MEVV), and Anti-Tank Guided Missile Vehicle (ATVV). The Army has not procured DVH versions of the Mobile Gun System or Nuclear, Biological, and Chemical Reconnaissance Vehicle but continues to field a range of configurations to enhance Stryker Brigade Combat Team capabilities. Classified evaluations have validated that the DVH provides increased protection against underbody threats while preserving mission effectiveness.

Additional improvements under the Engineering Change Proposal (ECP) program include a 450-horsepower engine, a 910-amp alternator for increased electrical output, and a reinforced suspension to support heavier vehicle loads. Enhanced situational awareness systems and networking capabilities have been integrated to meet evolving operational requirements. The Army aims to implement the DVH-A1 standard across all Stryker Brigades, incorporating new weapon systems such as the M153A4 CROWS-J and the 30mm XM813 Chain Gun-equipped turrets. The modernization effort is planned to continue into the 2030s to sustain the Stryker’s role in the Army’s combat vehicle fleet.