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2/27/2008

BAE Systems and Navistar Unveil Joint Light Tactical Vehicle Prototype at AUSA Winter

FORT LAUDERDALE, Florida - BAE Systems, through its Ground Systems line of business, and teammate Navistar International Corporation today unveiled a fully-operational system the team will use to compete for Joint Light Tactical Vehicle (JLTV) program. JLTV is the U.S. multi-service initiative for fielding a family of future light tactical vehicles.

"Our approach to the JLTV program is focused on the user," said Matt Riddle, vice president of Wheeled Vehicles at BAE Systems. "The BAE Systems Ground Systems-Navistar JLTV team has taken a user-centric design approach that provides the foundation for a future family of vehicles that will meet the Joint Services' light tactical vehicle requirements for decades to come."

The BAE Systems Ground Systems-Navistar JLTV design optimizes what's referred to as the "iron triangle" - payload, protection and performance - to meet all requirements of the JLTV program. The 16,000-pound vehicle incorporates lessons learned from the U.S. Department of Defense's Mine Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicle program and features the latest in lightweight, advanced armor and a v-shaped hull design to provide unmatched crew protection. The vehicle will out-perform existing tactical systems by providing exportable power that exceeds JLTV requirements and existing MRAP capabilities. Its modular design maximizes commonality across JLTV variants and enables the seamless integration of future technologies.

BAE Systems Ground Systems and Navistar announced their collaboration in October 2007 to take advantage of combined capabilities that most effectively support the JLTV program.

"BAE Systems' proven combat vehicle design excellence combined with Navistar's world class supply chain management, logistics and production capabilities provides unmatched JLTV design, production and support capability from concept to combat," said Archie Massicotte, president of Navistar Defense, an affiliate of Navistar International Corporation.

The teaming arrangement builds off the two company's current leadership in armored and tactical vehicle development and support, which includes the team working together for the benefit of the joint U.S customer on programs like MRAP. Combined, the BAE Systems Ground Systems-Navistar team maximizes JLTV program value through proven capabilities, lean manufacturing and extensive worldwide logistics support.

On average, Navistar produces more than 100,000 vehicles per year and produced more than a half-million engines in 2007 while BAE Systems Ground Systems has successfully produced and supported nearly 100,000 combat and tactical vehicles - making them one of the leading producers.

The JLTV will be on display in booth number 2411 during the AUSA Winter Symposium at the Broward County Convention Center in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.