In an interview with SP’s Land Forces, Rick Alpaugh, Vice President International Military Sales, AM General, said that the company estimates potential market size in South Asia, South East Asia, Australia and Africa for the right-hand drive light tactical vehicle to be several thousand vehicles in the next five years

SP’s Land Forces (SP’s): The right-hand drive countries are mostly in South Asia, some in South East Asia, Australia and the southern part of Africa. From HMMWV perspective what is the estimated market size for right-hand drive (RHD) vehicles and which countries do you plan to enter first?

Rick Alpaugh (Alpaugh): We estimate potential market size in South Asia, South East Asia, Australia and Africa for the right-hand drive light tactical vehicle to be several thousand vehicles in the next five years. We are currently working with several potential markets.

SP’s: Are any of the right-hand drive countries using HMMWV currently, if yes, what are the plans for ‘upgrade’ or ‘replacement’?

Alpaugh: There are a number of right-hand drive countries which use HMMWVs today. In response to their expressed needs for an OEM designed and produced right-hand drive HMMWV, we have launched this latest version of the Humvee. The right-hand drive is not a conversion but rather is a factory-installed on the Humvee platform. The right-hand drive Humvee variant gives our international customers the opportunity to experience the reliable, versatile and rugged vehicle that is Humvee.

SP’s: If there are capacities in the RHD market, will you have a manufacturing base in any of the regions, outside the US?

Alpaugh: This will be considered on a case by case basis.

SP’s: Other than right-hand drive, will the HMMWV vehicles have any other additional features/modifications to suit local terrain/conditions?

Alpaugh: All features and modifications available for other Humvee platforms will also be available for the right-hand drive Humvee. These effective, battle-proven options can be tailored to meet the challenges of any terrain or condition worldwide.

SP’s: The need for special operations vehicles having mine and ballistic protection is increasing. Could you give the safety features of RHD HMMWV?

Alpaugh: All safety features available on the Humvee platform are also available for the right-hand drive Humvee. In addition, the Humvee’s reliability, mobility and durability in and of itself provide safety for today’s warfighter. Tailored options for protection, performance and payload have been designed and qualified for all Humvee mission applications, including special operations.

SP’s: Will there be any change in the troop seating configuration?

Alpaugh: Other than repositioning the driver, there will be no change in the troop seating configuration.

SP’s: Can you give the life-cycle costs of the RHD HMMWV and what kind of savings could be expected?

Alpaugh: The right-hand drive Humvee is built to the same rigid performance requirements of the US military and has the same reliability, mobility and durability. An exceptionally durable and versatile light tactical vehicle, many vehicles still in service today were built in the 1980s. Humvee’s capabilities speak for themselves.

SP’s: What kind of maintenance, service, and training will follow in the RHD market?

Alpaugh: AM General’s Service Parts and Logistics Operations division provides a full range of services including hands-on equipment training, all levels of driver training instruction, field service support, and award-winning supply chain management.