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 behind Stryker armored fighting vehicles, it was created to fill a US Army need. It is neither heavy nor small, but must be mobile and quickly deployable.
The Stryker vehicle family is composed of several variations of the same chassis. The M1126 Infantry Carrier Vehicle is the main chassis. It can be outfitted with a variety of weapons systems and equipment. The vehicle also includes a digital video perscope, driver's vision enhancement and a thermal imagingr display with video camera.
A second version of the M1128 mobile guns system is available, which can be equipped with a 105mm machine gun. It also can be armed with a 7.62 mm grenade launcher or a 40 mm automatic grenade launcher.
There are also variants which are focused more on specialized operations. For example, the M1129 NBC reconnaissance vessel and M1135, mobile command vehicle. This modified Stryker is used for reconnaissance missions. Some newer versions have an electronic architecture with AI and other advanced technology.
These capabilities can allow Stryker to perform better in combat, GDLS stated last October. The GDLS Katalyst Next Generation Electronic Architecture, or KNEA, can improve situational awareness and crew safety by using AI, sensors and high-end computing.
GDLS also stated that the hybrid power will increase Stryker's fuel efficiency. It can run on hybrid or diesel power, which is more economical than gasoline, and it allows for greater usage of the battery.
The new Katalyst KNEA also can be programmed for other tasks, such as integrating radar, cameras and lasers to enable the Stryker to support specialized missions like command and control or surveillance. You can adapt it to work on different terrains, like sand, snow, or mud.
The new run-flat tire is another great addition. It can be altered to suit terrain conditions. The system can adjust all eight tires to suit the terrain. This can be very useful in an emergency situation, such as an earthquake and a landslide.
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 incorporated with a new battery management software that will increase energy storage, improve performance in cold weather and allow the Stryker temperature down to 20 degrees Celsius. This will boost performance in Alaska, which is where the Stryker is frequently deployed for icestorms or winter operations.