Pierce Manufacturing, an Oshkosh Corporation Company (NYSE:OSK), celebrated the first production build of its HEWATT apparatus–the first military-grade, multi-purpose water distribution and tactical support vehicle–during a ceremony at Pierce Manufacturing’s facility in Bradenton, Florida, on June 12. The vehicle was presented to representatives of the U.S. Army Tank Automotive and Armaments Command (TACOM)
The HEWATT is an Oshkosh Heavy Expanded Mobility Tactical Truck (HEMTT) platform-based water tender. Its primary function is to be used with the Pierce Tactical Fire Fighting Truck (TFFT) to protect life and property endangered as a result of accidental and incendiary type fires, and provide airfield crash-rescue operations. The HEWATT is designed for temporary and permanent military installations, and can operate under extreme conditions and in a broad range of terrain often encountered in military operations.
During a live demonstration, the newly completed vehicle showcased its water distribution capabilities. The vehicle is capable of traveling 62 miles per hour, climbing vertical and sideways inclines, and withstanding extreme environmental conditions that military firefighting units typically encounter.
The HEWATT is equipped with proven, severe-duty HEMTT components. The body is constructed of high-impact galvanneal steel and corrosion-resistant, stainless-steel plumbing for a long, durable life and easier maintenance. It features a 2,500 gallon water tank, 500 gpm single-stage pump, a 445 horsepower engine, 210-inch wheelbase, all-wheel drive and LED lighting. Its cruising range is 400 miles and fording clearance is 36 inches.
The first HEWATT will be delivered to a U.S. Army base in El Dorado, Kan. A total of 60 Pierce HEWATT vehicles, valued at $28 million, will be produced for the U.S. Army by March 2010.
More Pierce: www.piercemfg.com
More Oshkosh Corp.: www.oshkoshcorporation.com
