RRAD awarded major Bradley A4 contract

HOOKS, Texas — Red River Army Depot is one of the installations that will be doing recently awarded contract work on the Bradley A4 program, according to a press release from BAE systems, a defense contractor.

The $269 million contract was announced earlier this month.

The package is for a modernization program for the Bradley Infantry Fighting Vehicle, according to the BAE press release.

The modification, called the Bradley A4 Infantry Fighting vehicle, is intended to increase the capability as well as the longevity of the platform as it gets ready to enter its fourth decade of service.

RRAD, the Army’s primary facility for Bradley maintenance, is to be a large part of this program, according to the announcement.

“Red River Army Depot is proud to have sustained a long-standing partnership with BAE Systems for the last 16 years. Unfortunately, we do not have a lot of details on how this contract extension will impact the depot. We too are excited, about the announcement, and look forward to continuing our partnership and all associated work,” said Col. Stephen York, RRAD Depot commander.

The Bradley A4 comes with an enhanced powertrain that maximizes mobility and increases engine horsepower, providing rapid movement in reaction to combat or other adverse situations, according to the BAE press release.

“The Bradley is one of the most critical vehicles in the Army’s (inventory) today because it allows the Army to transport troops to the fight, and provide covering fire to suppress enemy vehicles and troops,” said Scott Davis, vice president of combat vehicle programs for BAE Systems. “Upgrading to the A4 configuration provides soldiers with more power to increase their speed and ability to integrate enhanced technology to ensure they maintain the advantage on the battlefield.”

In addition to RRAD, the work will also take place at and BAE Systems’ facilities in Aiken, South Carolina; Anniston, Alabama; Minneapolis, Minnesota; San Jose, California; Sterling Heights, Michigan; and York, Pennsylvania.

U.S. Army photo by Cpl. Alisha Grezlik ■ Montana National Guard goes on maneuvers in the Bradley A4 Infantry Fighting Vehicle at the National Training Center, Fort Irwin, California. Red River Army Depot will play a major part in the coming Bradley upgrade program.