 The two companies will build 12 prototypes each and begin delivering them in 14 months to begin testing in spring 2020, down-select to a winner by 2022, and begin fielding the first of 504 vehicles by 2025.The basic hull of the M8 is made of welded aluminum alloy, with a modular armoring system that allows the vehicle to be equipped according to requirements.The Level I (basic) armor package is designed for the rapid deployment role and can be airdropped from a C-130 Hercules and protects the vehicle against small-arms fire and shell splinters.