General Dynamics Land Systems (GDLS) introduced its latest Advanced Reconnaissance Vehicle (ARV) at the Modern Day Marine 2025 exhibition, underscoring the U.S. Marine Corps` accelerating shift toward multi-domain operations (MDO) and networked battlefield solutions. The ARV, designed to replace legacy Light Armored Vehicles (LAVs), is being positioned as a central node in the Marine Corps’ future force architecture—one that is smarter, more mobile, and digitally interconnected across all combat domains.
The ARV represents a leap forward in mobile reconnaissance and command-and-control capability. Engineered with a next-generation open electronic architecture, the vehicle is optimized for artificial intelligence (AI) integration and the control of unmanned systems. It can link seamlessly with both onboard and remote sensors, drones, and future robotic platforms, enabling Marines to achieve real-time situational awareness and conduct operations across land, sea, air, space, and cyberspace.
According to General Dynamics, the ARV is envisioned as a “quarterback” on a dynamic and dispersed battlefield—capable of coordinating forces, collecting and analyzing tactical data, and executing missions in highly fluid environments. Designed for both terrestrial and amphibious mobility, it meets the operational demands of expeditionary forces operating in contested zones.
While not yet operational, the ARV has undergone extensive testing at facilities such as the Keweenaw Research Center and the U.S. Army’s Ground Vehicle Systems Center in Michigan. Testing from March to December 2024 focused on evaluating the platform`s mobility, logistics, vehicle maintenance, and digital systems. Marine Corps Light Armored Reconnaissance (LAR) units have been actively involved in these evaluations, providing key feedback to refine its tactical utility and survivability.
A new prototype variant, equipped with a 30mm cannon, is expected to be delivered later in 2025. This ARV-30mm model will provide additional firepower, complementing the earlier C4/UAS variant designed for command and sensor integration. Technical specifications on the vehicle’s armor and countermeasure systems remain classified, but officials confirm that modular configurations will allow the vehicle to be tailored for specific mission profiles.
At the event, General Dynamics also highlighted several enabling technologies that support the ARV’s battlefield utility. These include the VITALS (Vehicle Intelligence Tools & Analytics for Logistics and Sustainment) software suite—already partially in use by U.S. Army Stryker brigades. This AI-driven platform facilitates predictive maintenance and fleet readiness optimization, reducing downtime and operational costs.
The Digital Training System—another key innovation—uses interactive digital twins accessible via tablets, computers, and smartphones to provide immersive, instructor-optional training for operators and mechanics. This allows scalable, on-demand training without requiring constant access to actual vehicles, supporting the Marine Corps` need for rapid personnel development.
Also on display was General Dynamics’ tactical networking technology developed in collaboration with Blu Wireless, using mmWave systems to deliver resilient, high-speed, low-detection communications in contested environments. This enables distributed Marine units to maintain secure, real-time coordination across complex, dispersed battlespaces.
The ARV`s development reflects the Marine Corps’ evolving warfighting strategy, one that places a premium on flexibility, speed, and digital integration. As the Corps pivots toward expeditionary advanced base operations (EABO) and distributed maritime operations (DMO), platforms like the ARV are expected to serve as the connective tissue linking sensors, shooters, and decision-makers across domains.
With initial production not expected before FY2028, the ARV program is still in development, but it is rapidly emerging as a cornerstone of the Marine Corps’ future force design. As geopolitical threats grow more diverse and technology-centric, the ARV’s adaptability and digital command capabilities will be essential in maintaining U.S. battlefield dominance.