High speed backhoe loader to US Army

Australian Defence Industries and the US Army have signed a contract for ADI to supply 40 of its Australian designed high mobility engineering vehicles (HMEV).

The company and its US partner Oshkosh Truck Corporation, has supplied a further three test vehicles to the US Army, which if successful, could lead to the supply of a further 1500 vehicles.

The vehicle, basically a backhoe loader, is based on ADI's highly successful HMEV in service with the Australian Army.

Canada and the United Arab Emirates are also evaluating the vehicle.

ADI claims it is the only purpose built vehicle of its type capable of travelling at speeds up to 100km/hr, to keep up with a military convoy.

Powered by a 140kW, turbo charged six cylinder Cummins diesel, it is a backhoe loader incorporating a post hole digger, forklift, winch and rock breaker.

It has ROPS and FOPS, a positively pressurised air-conditioned cab and can be transported under a CH-47 Chinook or inside a C130 Hercules.

ADI believes the machine “would realise significant benefits” for some operators involved in road construction and maintenance.

Further information: Geoff Miller, 03 5440 4311, 0408 475 745.