RIA-JMTC launches new M997A3 National Guard ambulance

The Rock Island Arsenal Joint Manufacturing and Technology Center (RIA-JMTC) has introduced new Humvee ambulance, M997A3, designed for the US Army National Guard.

The ambulance features a number of improvements crucial to supporting the National Guard in Homeland Security and natural disaster relief missions.

RIA-JMTC ambulance programme manager Scott Young said the RIA-JMTC is under contract to develop 500 ambulances for the National Guard.

The vehicle, which are being produced at the Rock Island Arsenal Joint Manufacturing and Technology Center, in Illinois, US, feature a variety of upgrades including an improved drive train and electrical components, enhancements inside the ambulance cabin, and elements to provide for greater storage of medical equipment.

The Army National Guard Bureau resource manager Douglas Curell said that the new ambulances are critical to helping US civilians during natural disasters.

Additional enhancements focused on the cabin lighting systems aimed to offer medics brighter LED lighting, and greater control over the ventilation system.

The National Guard Bureau light tactical vehicle system integrator Army Captain Kevin Schierholz said the vehicle is equipped with control panel for the heating and air conditioning systems.

The arsenal, which is currently producing 15 ambulances a month, will significantly ramp up to 30 per month, beginning in April, while the last vehicle is scheduled to be delivered in June 2015.

RIA-JMTC commander colonel David Luders said, "The M997A3 Ambulance for the National Guard is just one way we are supporting our Homeland Security mission."

Image: The M997A3 Humvee ground ambulance at the Rock Island Arsenal Joint Manufacturing and Technology Center, in Illinois, US. Photo: courtesy of Matthew Schlabach.