US Marines Officially Begin Full Production of ACV-30

Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace (KONGSBERG) has achieved a significant milestone with a new contract from the U.S. Marine Corps to support the Amphibious Combat Vehicle 30mm (ACV-30) program. This $51 million agreement focuses on the production of essential long-lead items and specialized subcomponents for the 30mm remote turret, propelling the program into full-rate production.

The U.S. Marine Corps awarded the contract through PEO Land Systems Program Manager Advanced Amphibious Assault (PM AAA), with the focus on manufacturing specific subcomponents for the 30mm remote turret. These components will be crafted at KONGSBERG’s facility in Johnstown, Pennsylvania, reflecting the Marine Corps’ strategic investments in local defense manufacturing and innovation.

According to Colonel Tim Hough, Program Manager for Advanced Amphibious Assault at PEO Land Systems, “The ACV-30 provides a significant increase in lethality for dismounted Marines. PM AAA is looking forward to a longstanding partnership with Kongsberg Defence through this direct contract between the two organizations,” he said.

The Next Generation of ACV-30 Amphibious Combat Vehicles

The ACV-30 is part of a versatile lineup in the Amphibious Combat Vehicle family, developed by BAE Systems. The primary objective of the ACV series is to bolster the Marine Corps’ ship-to-shore capabilities, crucial for power projection in coastal and amphibious operations. While the ACV family includes four unique variants, the ACV-30 stands out due to its integration of a remotely operated Medium Caliber Turret (MCT-30) produced by KONGSBERG.

The turret itself is a marvel of engineering, offering stabilized remote operation and precision targeting. The system enhances lethality while maximizing space within the vehicle, enabling additional troop transport and gear.

The remote turret, distinct from legacy turret systems, eliminates the need for large interior spaces typically required for turret operations, resulting in a lighter, more mobile vehicle with a higher payload capacity.

Advancing Firepower with KONGSBERG’s 30mm PROTECTOR Remote Turret

A centerpiece of the ACV-30’s combat capability is the 30mm PROTECTOR remote turret system by KONGSBERG. Known for its effectiveness and precision, the PROTECTOR turret is a cutting-edge addition to the U.S. Marine Corps’ combat arsenal.

This advanced system provides the Marines with improved situational awareness and the ability to engage threats from a safer, remote distance, enhancing protection for both personnel and equipment.

Eirik Lie, President of Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace, expressed enthusiasm for the program, stating, “This agreement is an important milestone for the U.S. Marine Corps ACV-30 program, enabling rapid deliveries when full-rate production starts. We are pleased that the U.S. Marine Corps has selected the highly advanced 30mm PROTECTOR remote turret system from KONGSBERG in the program.”

Strengthening a Strategic Partnership for the Future

The $51 million contract is part of a broader framework agreement valued up to $329 million, known as an “undefinitized contract action.” This contract structure allows the Marine Corps and KONGSBERG to accelerate initial production activities while finalizing further requirements and scaling capabilities.

By incorporating KONGSBERG’s PROTECTOR family of remote weapon systems, the Marine Corps benefits from streamlined training, sustainable technology solutions, and future-oriented system integration.

The ongoing collaboration signals a deeper commitment to the Marines’ long-term modernization goals, which prioritize both technological advancement and adaptability in increasingly complex combat environments. The Marine Corps’ decision to further integrate KONGSBERG’s remote turret systems reflects confidence in the company’s reliability, precision engineering, and capacity to meet rigorous military standards.

The ACV-30 program, backed by KONGSBERG’s advanced remote turret technology, marks a new era for the Marine Corps’ amphibious capabilities. This partnership with KONGSBERG signifies a powerful step forward, equipping Marines with the enhanced firepower and flexibility needed for modern operations.

As full-rate production begins, the ACV-30 program is set to deliver a robust and versatile combat solution for amphibious forces, strengthening the Marine Corps’ operational reach and tactical advantage across diverse combat scenarios.