GM Defense recently marked a significant milestone with the delivery of the first heavy-duty armored Sport Utility Vehicles (HD SUVs) designed for the Diplomatic Security Service (DSS), the security branch of the U.S. Department of State. This achievement was celebrated at the GM Defense Manufacturing and Customer Innovation Center in Concord, North Carolina, with notable attendees, including Assistant Secretary of State for Diplomatic Security Gentry Smith and other key stakeholders.
Dubbed the Suburban Shield, GM Defense’s armored SUV features a robust new design, constructed with a unique body-on-frame chassis and enhanced suspension to meet the rigorous weight and performance demands required by the DSS. The Suburban Shield leverages a high percentage of proven commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) parts from GM’s extensive global supply chain, ensuring the vehicle’s reliability and simplifying maintenance.
“We are proud to deliver a vehicle that significantly enhances the quality, performance, and safety essential to the Diplomatic Security Service,” said Steve duMont, President of GM Defense. “The Suburban Shield will provide our nation’s senior diplomats and their teams with the security and capability needed to accomplish their crucial missions abroad.”
Assistant Secretary Smith, who had the opportunity to test the prototype, praised the vehicle’s enhanced performance: “The prototype’s acceleration, handling, and heavy-duty anti-lock braking system surpass our aftermarket vehicles. The redesigned chassis provides exceptional stability, representing a new era of cost-effective and high-performance armored vehicles.”
With a focus on advanced manufacturing techniques, GM Defense ensures cost efficiency, flexibility, and adherence to stringent quality standards. The production team remains on schedule, thanks to these state-of-the-art methods, delivering vehicles equipped to support the DSS in some of the world’s most challenging environments.
This new collaboration with DSS exemplifies GM Defense’s commitment to supporting national security and diplomatic efforts with innovative automotive solutions.
