The next generation stryker can be used as a portable fighting vehicle. It's more deadly than light vehicles like Humvees but lighter and more maneuverable that heavyweight combat vehicles, like the M1 Abrams main assault tank. According to GDLS - the company that manufactures Stryker armored battle vehicles - the vehicle is intended to fill a US Army gap that is neither light nor heavy but still needs to be mobile.
There are many variants of the Stryker family of vehicles, all based on the same chassis. The M1126 infantry vehicle can be equipped with various weapon systems, such as a FBCB2 communications system, that allows commanders and their units to be seen on a map network. The vehicle also includes a digital video perscope, driver's vision enhancement and a thermal imagingr display with video camera.
Another option is the M1128 Mobile Gun System, which can carry an M105 machine gun. It also can be armed with a 7.62 mm grenade launcher or a 40 mm automatic grenade launcher.
There are other variants, like the M1129 NBC recon vehicle and M1135 mobility command vehicle. These vehicles are modified Strykers that can be used for reconnaissance missions. The newest models also include an electronic architecture that incorporates AI and other advanced technologies.
These capabilities could help the Stryker perform better on the battlefield according to GDLS in an October announcement. The GDLS KatalystNext Generation Electronic Architecture (or KNEA) can increase situational awareness and crew safety through the use of AI, sensors, and high-end computing.
GDLS claims that this will improve Stryker vehicle fuel economy. It can be run on either diesel or hybrid power which is cheaper than gasoline and allows for greater battery use.
The new Katalyst KNEA can also be programmed to perform other tasks such as integrating radars, cameras, and lasers. This will allow the Stryker support specialized missions such as command and control, surveillance, or command and control. You can also adapt it to deal with different terrain such as snow, mud, or sand.
A major new feature is the ability to change the tire's run-flat pressure depending on terrain conditions. The system can adjust the tire pressure depending on the terrain. This system is helpful in emergency situations such as an earthquake, landslide or other natural disasters. It can also alert the driver if it is time to adjust.
GDLS says the run-flats also have the ability to be deflated at a reduced speed, to reduce tire wear and improve fuel efficiency. The runflats can be inflated to normal tire pressure and stored so they are ready for next time.
The GDLSKNEA can be paired with a battery management system to increase energy storage and reduce temperature. This will boost performance in Alaska, which is where the Stryker is frequently deployed for icestorms or winter operations.