Title: Highly Customized Command Vehicle Delivered to US Northern Command
Subtitle: Chevy Suburban Extended for Enhanced Communication and Command Capabilities
Introduction
A specially modified and extended Chevy Suburban command vehicle has been delivered to the US Northern Command (NORTHCOM). The mobile command vehicle features robust and secure communication systems, making it an important asset for the US military in responding to nuclear, chemical, biological, and other national security incidents. The vehicle, built by master craftsman AMT, boasts a spacious interior with custom features and advanced communication technology.
Background and Specifications
The Chevy Suburban command vehicle appears to have originated in the mid-2010s, based on its external features and the exclusive Texas Edition badge on the driver and front passenger doors. The interior of the vehicle showcases a spacious main cabin with two sets of seats facing each other. Two flat screens deploy from the ceiling and face forward and backward, while four cameras mounted on the cabin’s ceiling provide video conferencing capability. The vehicle also houses a large equipment box in the rear, potentially containing additional communication devices, computers, and equipment.
The central command center of the vehicle is equipped with secure/internet protocol router and non-secure internet protocol router (SIPR/NIPR) communication infrastructure critical for the country’s most important missions. The vehicle is powered by AMT’s modular MVP-E power system, which consists of up to four 12V lithium LiFePO4 Mil-Spec batteries and associated systems. The MVP-E system can operate for 8 to 10 hours before requiring a recharge, and can even be partially recharged through solar panels. Eliminating the need to run the engine reduces vehicle noise, making it suitable for various operational contexts.
Purpose and Potential Users
While it is unclear whether this vehicle was previously in US military service, it has undergone significant revisions at AMT. The company’s recent statement suggests that the extended Suburban underwent modifications in 2015 before being returned to AMT for the next phase of its life. Specific users of this vehicle have not been identified, but AMT mentioned both NORTHCOM and the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) of the United States and Canada, as well as an unidentified Joint Task Force (JTF) in their statement. The vehicle’s interior image displays a tag that reads “JTFCS-C2V,” which could indicate its command and control role within JTF-CS.
The JTF-CS, established in 1999, focuses on anticipating, planning, and preparing for chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) response operations. Acting under civilian authorities, JTF-CS commands and controls Department of Defense forces to conduct CBRN response operations, saving lives, preventing further injuries, and providing temporary critical support for community recovery.
The JTF-CS works within the legal confines that restrict the US military from conducting domestic missions except in a support capacity. However, the armed forces possess unique capabilities, such as logistics and communications, that can significantly enhance crisis response efforts. Task forces like the JTF-CS bridge the gap between the initial incident and the deployment of military support.
Operation and Collaboration
The JTF-CS primarily acts as a headquarters entity, coordinating operational, medical, aviation, and logistical support, in addition to command and control support for civilian authorities. The JTF-CS can integrate various active-duty military units, as well as reserve components such as the National Guard, depending on the specific situation.
The JTF-CS complements civilian command and control capabilities and provides access to information through US military networks. In addition to command vehicles like the one recently delivered by AMT, the JTF-CS has access to modified SUVs known as Deployable Communications Capability Systems (DCCS). These vehicles are equipped with large satellite communication parabolic antennas on top, serving as mobile network centers that provide connections to SIPR, NIPR, and other networks.
Conclusion
The delivery of the highly customized Chevy Suburban command vehicle to NORTHCOM signifies the continued effort to enhance the military’s response capabilities to CBRN threats. By leveraging its advanced communication systems, spacious interior, and auxiliary power systems, this vehicle can serve as a command and control center for coordinating military support in critical situations. Furthermore, the ability to deploy additional modified vehicles, like the DCCS, ensures a well-rounded response to various emergencies and disasters.
As further information regarding the specific users and operations of this vehicle becomes available, it will become clearer how this asset will contribute to the overall mission of NORTHCOM and other task forces within its jurisdiction.
