A new Polaris military vehicle prototype was spotted in
Michigan. More specifically, Carscoops photographers caught the prototype near
the Roush test facility in Dearborn, where it was joined by another military
vehicle, the trophy truck-inspired Polaris Dagor A1 ultra-light combat vehicle. An official announcement from June 4 sheds light on Polaris’ new military vehicle.
The new light tactical vehicle is called
Polaris MRZR Alpha and we believe it’s the vehicle you see in the photos. We
say that because it shares many elements of the ultra-light tactical
construction of the existing Polaris MRZR. However, it has a longer wheelbase
and a more generous rear section which could be configured for more gear or
extra occupants. The MRZR Alpha will be Polaris’ 11th military vehicle in 12
years. According to the company’s June 4 release, the LTATV specification calls
for a two-passenger and four-passenger base vehicle, and seven variants or
“packages”. The prototype spotted in Michigan appears to have a four-seat
configuration, though the rear seats are not mounted yet.
Polaris says the MRZR Alpha is “an
entirely new breed of light tactical vehicle” as it is designed on an all-new
chassis which promises a “revolutionary new capability”. The company says its
“advances in chassis, driveline, suspension, and other technologies have
allowed the company to provide a new level of durability, performance, and
payload in the MRZR Alpha”. Furthermore, the new light tactical vehicle’s
architecture has been designed to be compatible with near-future innovation.
Since their introduction, MRZRs have been outfitted with counter unmanned
aerial systems (C-UAS), weapons and high-energy laser systems, as well as
intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) systems.
Other features present on MRZR models
include expeditionary command and control systems, autonomy packages, litters
for medical and casualty evacuation, and communication equipment. Obviously,
Polaris Government & Defense‘s MRZR Alpha will feature all these and more.
