Transportation Soldiers train on Armored Security Vehicle

Selected Transportation Soldiers of A Co., 834th Aviation Support Battalion had the opportunity to go through M1117 Armor Security Vehicle (ASV) training Apr. 2 through Apr. 4.  The training was a 40 hour course taught over a period of three days on Joint Base Balad, Iraq.

“The course was taught by very competent civilians.  The first day was a PowerPoint presentation on the controls, technical specs, and Pre-Maintenance Checks and Services,” said SGT Jacob Knaeble, A Co. 834th ASB Heavy Vehicle Driver and Force Protection Noncommissioned Officer from Edina, Minn. “The second and third days consisted of driving time, and time behind the weapons turret.”

The M1117 ASV is not a new concept; the style of vehicle was used during the Vietnam War.  But the vehicle and its use in the Iraqi Theatre only date back to 2004.
           
“The ASV kind of looks like a tank on wheels,” said SPC Aaron Olsen, A Co. 834th ASB Heavy Vehicle Driver from Fridley, Minn.

The vehicle is a massive machine, with impressive speed and a unique weapons system.

“It's a very tight space inside the vehicle,” said SPC Olsen. “But the speed and the weapons system makes you feel more protected inside.”

The ASV has both the 50 Caliber weapon system and the M19 Automatic Grenade Launcher.  They are both controlled by computer systems within the hull of the vehicle.

“It's better that way, having the controls inside,” SPC Olsen said, “you’re not as exposed to enemy fire.”

Early this year, the Transportation Platoon of A Co. 834th ASB was able to train on the CAIMON Mine Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicles.  The Soldiers discovered there were differences between the two vehicles. 

“While the MRAP has more armor, the ASV weapons systems are all controlled easily from the inside,” SGT Knaeble said.  “The MRAP is tippier with a higher center of balance, than that of the M1117 ASV.”

The ASV also has more speed than the CAIMON MRAP, as its main purpose is for convoy security.

The Soldiers were glad to be able to go through the training.  Many hope to be able to use it in the future.

“For a [heavy vehicle driver], this is a great opportunity to train for the future, and be ready for any upcoming deployments,” said SGT Knaeble. “The younger guys especially, with the possibility of one day seeing Afghanistan, it’s best to be ready for any vehicle we might use in the future.”

By SPC Justin Adelmann
Co, 834th ASB Unit Public Affairs Representative
4 April, 2009