US Army Selects Propulsion Solution for M88A3 HERCULES Prototype Vehicles

Allison Transmission has been selected to provide its X1100TM-5B propulsion solution for the US Army’s new M88A3 HERCULES (Heavy Equipment Recovery Combat Utility Lift and Evacuation System) prototype vehicle.

In addition to the transmission, Allison will provide its new advanced electronic controls system as well as new final drive components to meet the needs of the recovery vehicle application.

This initiative is consistent with the Army’s continued investments in combat readiness and fleet modernization and represents more than $37 million in engineering design, development, fabrication, testing, and demonstration funds for Allison’s X1100TM-5B for BAE Systems’ M88A3 HERCULES prototype vehicles through 2023. A decision by the Army to transition to production is expected in early 2024.

Today, the M1A2 Abrams Main Battle Tank requires two M88A2 heavy tracked recovery vehicles to tow the vehicle. The US Army modernization program’s goal is to regain single vehicle recovery of the Army’s heaviest tracked vehicle providing more efficient use of resources.

Allison’s X1100-5B automatic transmission lies at the heart of the planned prototype improvements. The X1100-5B is a reliable, durable propulsion system based on the proven Abrams Main Battle Tank drivetrain solution. 

“This program demonstrates Allison’s long-term strategic relationship with the Army is built on trust, partnership and a mutual commitment to excellence,” said Dana Pittard, Vice President for Defense Programs at Allison Transmission. “Our support for the Army’s armored formations spans over 75 years and enhancements and upgrades to this battle-tested X1100 transmission design will further support the Army’s needs for decades to come.”