Mission
AVTB supports the US Marine Corps in the development and acquisition of amphibious and combat vehicles by providing decision makers timely and accurate information regarding the effectiveness and suitability of the platform under test.
History
The Amphibious Vehicle Test Branch was established in August 1946 to conduct test and evaluation procedures on amphibious tracked vehicles. Throughout its history AVTB has been heavily engaged in the testing and development of amphibious vehicles utilized in all major conflicts Post World War II. AVTB's core competencies are test planning, test execution, data collection, evaluation, and preparing the critical reports that provide the necessary information to decision makers. MARCORSYSCOM transferred AVTB structure from PM AAVS to PM AAA in May of 2002.
Capabilities
Camp Pendleton offers year-around temperate climate, diverse terrain, and 17 miles of coastline ideal for amphibious testing. It's close proximity to San Diego enhances ship-related testing. Camp Pendleton also offers range facilities to conduct live-fire testing of vehicular armament and weapons systems.
Training facilities, operating areas, and ranges are all under U.S. Marine Corps control. AVTB is in close proximity to San Clemente Island, which can be used for live-fire sea-to-shore testing and high-speed water testing.
Terrain or test-specific areas such as Twentynine Palms, Nevada Automotive Test Center, Yuma Proving Grounds and Marine Corps Mountain Warfare-Bridgeport are close enough to be easily available for use.
