New General Dynamics Contract for "Chargers"
General Dynamics Land Systems has recently concluded a $77 Million contract for 169 armoured vehicles called "Chargers," or "RG-31 Mk5 Mine Protected Vehicles". These are separate from the Stryker contract; Chargers appear to be something of a super-armoured, weaponized jeep. We currently don't have any information on whether there is a connection with UWO Engineering Department research here – but the fact that the selling point of these vehicles is their enhanced armour makes it look very much as if they are benefiting from the research of UWO engineers. As with the Stryker contract, the vast majority of these new vehicles will be supplied to the US army (with a small portion going to the Canadian Army). Strykers are currently part of the Bush Administration's new troop "surge" in Iraq and will be deployed in Baghdad.
For more details, read the GDLS press release here.
Further information on the Charger, including previous Charger contracts between US armed forces and General Dynamics Land Systems, is available here.
posted by Counter-Stryker at 2:59 PM
1 Comments:
Hello,
I was handed a pamphlet today regarding your group's panel discussion concerning military research at UWO. This is an interesting topic indeed for a debate, however, it does not seem to be presented well. While I understand the mission of your organization, I am dismayed by the fact that the panel discussion appears to be simply a "gang up on and attack the bad guy Ted Hewitt" event. I think your overall cause could be served better by the addition of individuals from the opposing side whom your supporters could engage in academic debate. Maybe an idea for next time?
My comment, however, is directed at this post and your claim re: the involvement of the engineering department. Your post misrepresented General Dynamic's role in this project. They will not be constructing the vehicles, but merely facilitating their procurment and delivery to the US military. As the Nylas's are a vehicle that has been around for many years (I believe since the late 1980's), what design role would the UWO engineering department play in the project? You make claims without providing the necessary evidence to raise concern, but you're simply calling wolf.
Those who are enlightened need to be critical, but we also have a responsibility to be correct in our claims.
Post a Comment
<< Home