The Mack Defense Sherpa is part of a family of 4x4 tactical vehicles designed to provide one of the best mobility and payload capacities in its class. It handles many types of difficult terrain thanks to a ground clearance of 2.06 ft (.63 m), and is capable of clearing vertical obstacles up to 1.31 ft (.4 m) high.  The fuel efficient, high torque 215 hp Turbodiesel engine allows the Sherpa to tackle grades up to 60% percent with ease and is capable of cruising at speeds up 68 mph (109 km).  The Sherpa has a payload capacity of 8,175lbs (3,700 kg) and with the Hawkeye mounted, still has plenty of cargo capacity to spare.

Firing tests have been underway and early results indicate a perfect marriage between the Sherpa and Hawkeye.  This past October at Camp Grayling, MI the two performed admirably together, exceeding accuracy expectations and proving to be a reliable package.  Mandus Group is proud to be partnering with Mack Defense for the Hawkeye project.

On October 1st, 2011 the paradigm in lightweight self-propelled and towed artillery changed forever. For the first time, a super lightweight 105mm howitzer fired live rounds while being mounted on a traditional medium sized military transport vehicle that did not incorporate outriggers or spades for stabilization. The Hawkeye 105mm Weapon System, mounted on the bed of a Mack Sherpa, performed beautifully and early data suggests that it fired as accurately as any current 105mm howitzer. We would like to thank the Rock Island Arsenal, Camp Grayling, and the Michigan and Iowa National Guard for making the introduction of the Hawkeye howitzer a smashing success.