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| BAE/Iveco SuperAv 8x8 at Modern Day Marine. |
We're losing carrying capacity with the AAV, so the idea of reorganizing the Battalions to have more vehicles now is probably already in the works.
The issue is simple.
The blast seats.
I did a little paper napkin check on current seats and then compared it to the interior dimensions of the AAV and it looks like we're going to lose 4 - 6 Marines from every vehicle...
So not only is the wing going to need to get bigger to support the maintenance requirements of the new aircraft coming online (meaning the F-35 and the MV-22) but we're also looking at a larger AAV Battalion to maintain current carry capability (supposedly to provide mechanized transport for 1 Marine Expeditionary Brigade...which is a downgrade from previous requirements of providing lift for 2)...while at the same time we're eviscerating Infantry, Artillery and Tank Battalions.
But back to the MPC. If its going to actually match the AAV in troop carriage, swimming and exceed its mobility over all grounds...even in its upgraded form then the only thing left to determine is can we afford it.
