The upgrades include a redesigned “double-V” hull, offering improved blast protection compared to the older flat-bottom models. In addition to the hull, the vehicles feature several minor modifications that require operators and maintainers to familiarise themselves with new systems.
The training programme is structured as a “train-the-trainer” model, focusing on equipping experienced Soldiers with the knowledge to pass on to their units. It is divided into two streams: one for vehicle drivers and one for maintenance personnel.
Capt. Matthew McCabe, logistics officer for 2nd Battalion, 112th Infantry Regiment, emphasised the importance of the initiative. “It’s allowing these individuals to go back to their units, be the subject matter experts and it’s allowing us to get our hands on a piece of equipment that’s more modern than what we had before,” he said.
Sgt. Robert Leamer, vehicle commander with Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 111th Infantry Regiment, noted the similarities in handling but recognised key design updates. “A lot of updates seem to be with the armour, with the new hull,” he said. “They have some safety features, like the emergency shut off for the fuel, and a couple of comms things, but as far as these Strykers, they seem to roll very similar to the old ones.”
Approximately 55 Soldiers are expected to complete the driving module, while 30 will participate in maintenance training. The sessions are led by General Dynamics Land Systems, the manufacturer of the Stryker vehicles.
According to Capt. McCabe, the effort is a vital step in preparing the brigade for future operations. “This training will set the brigade up for success in fiscal year ’26 after all our Soldiers are back from their deployments and the new Strykers are all fielded to the units,” he said.
