AM GeneralS New Era of Light force Mobility: Hawkeye, JLTV A2, and the Revolutionary MIMIC-V
The battlefield is evolving, demanding lighter, more agile, and technologically advanced platforms. AM General, historically renowned for the iconic Humvee, is responding with a focused strategy on light force mobility, showcasing its latest innovations at the Association of the U.S. Army (AUSA) Annual Meeting (october 13-15, 2025). This isn’t simply an evolution of existing vehicles; it’s a basic shift towards integrated, drone-centric warfare, offering unprecedented operational adaptability for special operations and light infantry units. But what exactly does this new direction mean for modern warfare, and how are these vehicles poised to reshape the tactical landscape?
A Three-Pronged Approach to Modern warfare
AM General’s AUSA presentation centers around three key platforms: the restyled Hawkeye 105mm Mobile Howitzer System, the upgraded JLTV A2, and the groundbreaking MIMIC-V (Mission Integrated Maneuverable Interoperable Conformable Vehicle). Each represents a critical component of the company’s vision for the future of light force operations.
1. Hawkeye 105mm: precision Firepower on the Move
The Hawkeye 105mm Mobile Howitzer System continues to be a cornerstone of AM general’s offerings. The restyled version, on display at AUSA, builds upon its reputation for delivering accurate, long-range fire support with enhanced mobility and responsiveness.While specific details of the restyling remain under wraps, industry analysts anticipate improvements to the vehicle’s digital fire control system and perhaps a reduction in overall weight, further enhancing its deployability. This system addresses a critical need for rapidly deployable, indirect fire support in contested environments.
2. JLTV A2: Enhanced Capabilities for a Versatile Platform
The Joint Light Tactical Vehicle (JLTV) has already proven its worth as a replacement for the Humvee. The new JLTV A2, recently delivered, takes this versatility to the next level with an enhanced trailer capability. This addition substantially expands the JLTV’s logistical support role, allowing it to transport heavier payloads and equipment, crucial for sustained operations in remote locations. According to a recent report by the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) released in September 2025,the JLTV program is on track to meet its modernization goals,with a focus on improving reliability and reducing lifecycle costs. https://www.gao.gov/
3. MIMIC-V: The Drone-Centric Revolution
The true game-changer in AM General’s lineup is the MIMIC-V. This isn’t just a pickup truck; it’s a purpose-built, mobile drone operations hub designed from the ground up for special operations forces. The MIMIC-V integrates a UAS (Unmanned Aircraft System) and high-caliber weapons, enabling rapid deployment, launch, and recovery of drones directly from the vehicle. This capability dramatically expands situational awareness, reconnaissance capabilities, and strike options for small, highly mobile teams.
Drones Take Center Stage: XTEND and SPEAR UAV Integration
AM General isn’t developing the drone technology in-house; instead, they’re strategically partnering with leading innovators in the UAS space. The AUSA display showcases two key integrations:
* XTEND Defense: The MIMIC-V will be equipped to operate with XTEND’s human-guided autonomous drone systems. this allows operators to launch, monitor, and recover drones without exposing themselves, significantly reducing risk in hostile environments. XTEND’s technology allows for intuitive control, even in GPS-denied areas, offering a critical advantage in urban warfare or complex terrain.
* SPEAR UAV: Collaboration with SPEAR UAV brings the Viper 300 system into the mix, providing precision strike capabilities and beyond-line-of-sight engagement options. This integration transforms the MIMIC-V into a mobile, lethal node capable of delivering targeted firepower with minimal collateral damage. SPEAR UAV’s Viper 300 boasts a quiet engine and extended flight time,making it ideal for covert operations.
Enhanced Situational Awareness with TriEye SWIR Technology
Operating in challenging environments - dust storms, smoke, low light – can severely limit visibility. AM General is addressing this with the integration of TriEye’s CMOS-based Short-Wave Infrared (SWIR) technology. SWIR cameras penetrate obscurants that block traditional visible light and infrared sensors, providing a clear image even in the
