A Compendium of Medium Armoured Vehicles - Wescam

Compendium 

Medium 

Armoured 

Vehicles 

On a budget 

by 

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Evolution of the Wheel 

The armoured fighting vehicle world could not be immune to the overall financial crisis 

that is hitting the world. Deep budget cuts are impacting defence resources and are 

leading to the cancellation or delay of some of the major programmes in many industrialised 

countries. Investments on new products are thus limited, while some new 

emerging technologies in the field of active armour and camouflage solutions are being 

tested and integrated, but have yet to be deployed. 

Paolo Valpolini 

Upgrading existing vehicles and carrying 

out marketing campaigns in those countries 

that are not armoured vehicles producers 

is thus the main effort for most companies. 

Lessons learned in Afghanistan are pointing 

to higher protection levels, even on newly introduced 

vehicles, while the advent of remotelycontrolled 

medium calibre turrets saves the 

weight that can be used for add-on armour. 

Better situational awareness is also needed, 

especially for urban warfare scenarios, while 

vehicle digitisation is becoming a must in firsttier 

countries. If a limited number of new designs 

are emerging amongst the wheeled vehicle category, 

the tracked vehicles community is seeing 

the appearance of ‘new’ vehicles that are more 

the result of the merger of upgraded chassis with 

new turrets rather than totally new designs. 

Piranhas 

In America, apart from the US Marines’ programmes 

(amphibious vehicles will be part of a 

specific article in the next issue of Armada), the 

main focus is currently on the acquisition of new 

Stryker vehicles with increased protection to 

better meet current operational requirements, as 

well as on the upgrade of existing vehicles to 

improve their performance and extend their 

service life. 

The main programme is the Stryker ‘Double- 

V Hull’ (DVH), which increases the vehicle protection 

against mines and roadside bombs to 

Mrap levels. General Dynamics Land Systems 

has completed blast and reliability tests, the latter 

with the purpose of demonstrating that the 

extra 2.26 tonnes did not affect performance and 

safety, thanks to the adoption of an improved 

suspension system. 

A first contract was issued in July 2010 for 450 

DVH new builds, of which 320 had been rolled 

out by late-October 2011. The first was delivered 

to the US Army in May and deployed to 

Afghanistan one month later. The DVH is being 

produced in seven of the ten variants currently in 

service, namely Infantry Carrier, Medical Evacuation, 

Engineer Squad, Fire Support, Command, 

Mortar Carrier and Anti-tank. 

While deliveries of the first 450 should be 

completed in February 2012, new orders for a 

further 115 and 177 vehicles were filed in early 

and late October 2011, final deliveries being 

forecast respectively for September 2012 and 

armada INTERNATIONAL 1/2012 

The Arma 8 � 8 fitted with Otokar’s 

Mizrak 30 turret becomes a state-ofthe-art 

infantry fighting vehicle 

July 2013. These 742 vehicles will allow the US 

Army to deploy two DVH-equipped Stryker 

Brigade Combat Teams. 

Further improvements might be adopted: 

Millen Works tested new suspensions based on 

magnetorheological dampers that instantly 

adapt to road conditions, the base for a semiactive 

suspension system that would further 

improve the Stryker’s mobility. A new 520-hp 

powerpack was tested and the Saab Leds-150 

active protection system integrated. 

Other derivatives of the Piranha are still 

actively marketed. In early 2011 US Army Tacom 

filed an initial FMS contract for 82 LAV IIs 

aimed at Saudi Arabia. An order for the US 

Marine Corps was filed in August 2011 for 33 

LAV-A2 8 � 8s in four different configurations. 

The Stryker DVH is also proposed as the base 

chassis for the US Army AMPV (Armored Multi 

Purpose Vehicle) programme, General Dynam- 

On the Cover 

This Iveco/Oto 

Melara was 

caught in action 

by the author during 

an Italian Army exercise. 

The type has 

been deployed in 

most of the Esercito’s 

theatre of action. 

A Centauro 2 programme 

is already on 

the drawing boards 

Compendium 

Medium 

Armoured 

Vehicles 

On a budget 

and, depending on funding availability a 

prototype could be readied for 2014. 

by 

INTERNATIONAL: The trusted source for defence technology information since 1976 

1

ics considering that the 8 � 8 can be an optimal 

option to replace M113 support versions still in 

service. The Stryker is also trying its luck in Central 

America, where Colombia is looking for an 

armoured personnel carrier of that class. 

Another major business is the LAV upgrade, 

for which a contract was signed in October 2011 

by Canada for improving operational performances 

of 550 LAV IIIs to keep them in service 

until 2035. Upgrades include the provisions 

adopted in the DVH plus modification in the 

automotive and ergonomic fields. The weight will 

increase from 17.25 to 25 tonnes, requiring the 

adoption of improved automotive components 

including a new 450-hp Caterpillar powerpack. 

The turret will be equipped with an improved fire 

control system and sights and the access will be 

eased by wider hatches. The completion of the 

programme is scheduled for 2017. 

General Dynamics is proposing for the Canadian 

Close Combat Vehicle its Piranha Class 5 

coupled to a Rheinmetall Lance modular turret 

armed with a 30-mm gun. Unveiled at Eurosatory 

2010 by General Dynamics European Land 

Systems, the Class 5 is larger than the Class 4, its 

payload growing to 15 tonnes over a 30-tonne 

combat weight, three extra tonnes were preserved 

as growth potential. 

Power-to-weight ratio has increased considerably 

by a 580-hp MTU 6V199 engine. An 

Inline Power Generator provides 18 kW of onboard 

power (28 V DC) and 100 kW export 

power (400 and 230 V AC). The company is 

2 

The Wheeled Combat Vehicle Demonstrator 

used by General Dynamics for testing new 

systems and technologies on its Piranha family 

is here seen with a Kongsberg 30 RCWS and a 

new 3D camouflage system. (Armada/PV) 

The Piranha Class 3 

exhibited at Eurosatory 

2010 was equipped 

with an Oto Melara 

Hitfist turret and featured 

an urban camouflage 

pattern. Existing Piranha 

versions are constantly 

being upgraded to 

improve their 

performance. 

(Armada/PV) 

working on a kinetic energy recuperation system 

that would allow to punch out 750 hp surge 

power for emergency manoeuvres, though the 

main objective is to stock energy that can be 

transformed into electric power to allow the 

vehicle to carry out silent watch missions of more 

than 48 hours. 

A height-adjustable McPherson strut suspension 

system improves mobility, maximising 

ground clearance when needed but also increasing 

protection against mines. Protection levels 

were not disclosed, but the Piranha Class 5 

adopts the latest available protection against 

EFP threats and was shown at Eurosatory with 

the Saab Leds-150 active protection system. 

At Idex 2011, General Dynamics exhibited the 

Desert Piranha, a version of the Class 5 adapted 

to the desert environment, equipped with sand 

tires, improved air conditioning and a new powerpack, 

developed to answer the Abu Dhabi 

requirement for an 8 � 8 personnel carrier. 

Pandur 

Regarding the Pandur, also a General Dynamics 

product, not much has happened in recent times 

in terms of sales, although some sources mention 

a contract for 6 � 6 vehicles from an undisclosed 

country. The company does not comment on 

progress made with the deal with Portugal, while 

deliveries to the Czech Army are now well underway, 

with 55 Pandur II 8 � 8 KBVPs (Infantry 

Fighting vehicle), five KBV-VRs (Command Post 

Vehicle) and two KOT-Zdrs (Ambulance) delivered 

by late November 2011. 

In May 2011 a contract was signed with IAI 

Tamam of Israel for the acquisition of an undisclosed 

number of Mini-Pop sensor turrets to be 

mounted onto the remote-control Rafael Samson 

30 turret installed on the KBVP version. 

Since December 2010 some Czech Pandur IIs 

have been deployed to Afghanistan and operate 

within the Czech-led Provincial Reconstruction 

Team based in Logar. Pandur IIs operating 

downrange have been equipped with bar-armour 

to increase protection against RPGs. As for the 6 

� 6, Belgium is about to form a new recce unit 

whose main asset will be the Pandur 6 � 6 

equipped with Thales Margot 5000 sensor system 

mounted on a telescopic mast. 

France 

France was one of the few Nato countries to have 

put numerous wheeled vehicles into service since 

the Cold War era, mostly for missions in former 

armada Compendium Medium Armoured Vehicles 2012 

colonies. This left a serious design and production 

capacity currently subdivided among three major 

companies: Nexter, Renault Trucks Défense 

(which includes Acmat) and Panhard. 

How long will this scenario remain is anybody’s 

guess, but next June at Eurosatory 2012 

the number of corresponding stands might differ 

from what we are used to seeing. The most probable 

outcome is that a bigger entity might eat a 

smaller one. Although no decision has surfaced 

yet, things are on the move and a rationalisation 

of the French armoured vehicle production compartment 

is expected sooner or later. 

VBCI 

For the time being, the production of the VBCI 

for the French Army by the Nexter-RTD consortium 

is well underway, while the request for proposal 

for the two new vehicles that will replace 

the AMX-10RC and the Vab, respectively the 

EBRC and the VBMR, is awaited by year-end. 

This is part of the Scorpion programme that will 

bring a considerable change in the French Army 

posture. 

To meet Middle East requirements General 

Dynamics European Land Systems developed 

a desert-oriented version of its Piranha Class 

5, which was exhibited at Idex 2011 in 

personnel carrier guise. (Armada/PV) 

Finally we must not forget the Vab. With 

upgrades and new model proposals, the type 

remains one of the important current businesses 

since more than 5000 units are still in service 

around the world. 

VBCI deliveries reached roughly half of the 

630 vehicles ordered by the Armée de Terre. The 

armoured hull and the turret are provided by 

Nexter, who is also responsible for the integration, 

while all the driveline is supplied from 

Renault. In August 2010 the first ten VBCIs were 

deployed to Afghanistan fitted in the so-called 

‘Configuration Opex’. They underwent a weight 

reduction programme (removing some functions 

considered useless for Afghanistan) to allow the 

adoption of Qinetiq North America Last Armor 

RPGNet and anti-mine V-shaped add-on kits. 

This led the French DGA to place a contract 

to Renault for the study and development phase 

of a driveline upgrade that will increase the 

VBCI’s gross weight from 28 to 32 tonnes. Nexter 

and Renault are considering adding some 

protection to the driveline to increase residual 

mobility in case of explosion, but more recently 

France decided to integrate the Javelin on the 

Vabs deployed in Afghanistan.

Another major issue under discussion is the 

VBCI logistic support that will follow the initial 

contract that will soon expire. A possible solution 

would be a joint-venture between the two producers 

of the vehicle; that contract should be 

assigned in 2013. As for the export market, the 

VBCI definitely aims at the Spanish VBR 8 � 8 as 

well as at the Canadian Close Combat Vehicle 

programme, for which Nexter is also offering an 

adapted turret. The VBCI was also exhibited in an 

APC version at Idex, the French 8 � 8 also aiming 

at the UAE bid for such class of vehicle. 

VBMR & EBRC 

Turning to the VBMR and the EBRC, a selection 

is expected in 2012 following an international 

competition that should lead to the delivery 

of prototypes to the French DGA by late 

2012. While some details start to emerge, what 

seems sure is that a tracked solution has been 

abandoned in favour of a 6 � 6 configuration 

with a protection set at Level 4 (to Stanag 4569). 

This is lower than originally anticipated; a compromise 

has apparently been reached to maintain 

a high mobility that would contribute to the 

overall survivability. Price all taxes included for 

the VBMR (but without weapons and ancillaries) 

should not exceed € one million. 

Thus far only Nexter and Panhard have 

shown some concepts related to the Scorpion 

programme vehicles, while Renault has kept its 

designs under wrap. The Nexter XP-2 technology 

demonstrator includes an in-house-developed 

driveline, a major difference with the VBCI pro- 

The Piranha Class 5 at 

its unveiling. The 

vehicle is being 

proposed for a series 

of potential contracts 

such as Canada’s 

CCV. (Armada/PV) 

gramme where that key part was the responsibility 

of Renault. This was seen as a sign of Nexter’s 

willingness to run on its own in the wind of a possible 

rapprochement of some kind of the two 

other French potential competitors. However, in 

early November 2011 Nexter and Renault Trucks 

Défense announced a co-operation agreement 

with a view to offering a single answer to the 

forthcoming French DGA’s request for proposals 

regarding the VBMR. 

Back to the XP-2, its maximum width of 2.55 

meters allows the vehicle to cope with civilian 

traffic. The vehicle also complies with environmental 

and safety regulations, propulsion being 

provided by Euro 4, 5 or 6 engines. Nexter’s driveline 

design is a key element, as it is configured to 

provide a sufficient protected volume to its two 

A Czech Army Pandur 

KBVP, the fighting 

version of the vehicle, is 

manufactured in the 

Novy Jicin plant under 

license. (General 

Dynamics European 

Land Systems) 


crewmembers and nine dismounts – all of which 

will be equipped with the Félin infantry equipment 

and carrying two days worth of supplies. 

Another major reason for keeping width to a 

minimum stems from a new type of add-on 

armour on which the company does not expand, 

only to say that it will afford Level 4 protection. 

The XP-2 also considers risks that can be 

encountered during mob control operations, an 

anti-Molotov extinguishing system having been 

adopted. 

Mobility is guaranteed by the 6 x 6 configuration, 

allowing a greater load to be carried at the 

centre of the chassis, such as a medium-calibre 

remote control turret, while a 14- to 18-tonne 

weight would make it compatible with most 

bridges. 

The XP-2 started trials in November 2009 

with an interruption in April 2010 to allow its discrete 

participation at the Eurosatory exhibition, 

but were resumed in autumn to complete the 

planned tests on sandy and rough terrain. While 

the XP-2 remains a technology demonstrator, 

Nexter will draw on the experience garnered to 

develop the platform demonstrator that was 

partly financed by the French DGA under a contract 

issued in 2010 following the launch of the 

A GDELS-Steyr Pandur II 

8 � 8 Infantry Fighting 

Vehicle fitted with a Steyr 

SP 30 Turret, the 

configuration chosen by 

the Portuguese Army. 

(General Dynamics 

European Land Systems) 

development phase of the Scorpion programme 

in February of that same year. 

A similar contract, worth less than € ten million, 

was also assigned to Renault, and both companies 

are also under contract to deliver two 

static shells complete with add-on armour for 

ballistic testing. 

Renault has not yet unveiled much on its two 

designs for the French Army and will await the 

next Eurosatory exhibition to tell more on that 

subject, although the announcement of its teaming 

with Nexter should lead to a common vehicle. 

The company is working closely with the 

DGA and the operational users, and claims to 

have a ‘very advanced solution’. 

Two of the areas in which Renault worked 

intensively were the underbelly protection and 

the ergonomics, the latter was a key issue knowing 

that eleven soldiers might have to live in the 

vehicle on 40-hour missions. Having built over 

4000 Vabs the company intends to position itself 

as one of the major players for the new contract, 

especially considering anticipated VBMR numbers. 

The latest indications point to a total of 

1996, with 700 of these in VTT troop transport 

guise. Renault sources confirm that the company 

also has an advanced project for the EBRC. 

The only company to have unveiled a fullsize 

mock-up of a possible solution for the EBRC 

is Panhard, which is ironically the only of the three 

3

major French companies not to have received a 

development contract from the DGA. 

Known as the Sphynx and unveiled before 

Eurosatory 2010, this 18-tonne 6 x 6 boasts an Htype 

driveline and three steering axles. Three 

meters wide, it is 5.5 meters long and 1.65 meters 

high, while its 400-mm ground clearance, coupled 

to the ‘V’ shape and the underbelly armour package 

combine to yield a 4a/b protection level. Variable-height 

suspensions would allow setting the 

ground clearance to between 200 and 600 mm. 

Ballistic protection was declared to be Level 4 

all round and 5 (25 mm APFSDS) on the frontal 

arc, but the choice of the French Army to limit it 

to 4 might allow a considerable decrease in 

weight, probably between 15.5 and 16 tonnes. 

To improve the driver situational awareness 

the Sphynx features a glass windshield with two 

small side windows, all produced in transparent 

ceramics to reduce weight and thickness for better 

transparency. The Sphynx is equipped with a 

two-man turret armed with a CTAI 40 mm automatic 

cannon and two anti-tank missiles adding 

blos capacity. 

4 

The full-size mock-up of the Sphynx was 

presented at Eurosatory in 2010. The 

handsome design is Panhard’s proposal for 

the EBRC programme, which aims at finding a 

replacement for the AMX-10RC currently in 

service with the French Armée de Terre. 

(Armada/EHB) 

Cost control was among the company aims, 

and cots elements should keep the Sphynx’ price 

close to that of the current ERC-90. As for the 

VBMR, Panhard will respond to the bid with 

what company officials defined as a ‘breakthrough 

solution’ that will probably be unveiled 

at Eurosatory. 

Although the XP-2 made its 

début at Eurosatory in 2010, 

Nexter’s new demonstrator 

was really only allowed to 

be seen by all and sundry at 

DSEi over a year later, 

although in a rather 

cramped environment. 

(Armada/EHB) 

Vab 

Last but not least the good old Vab is still in full 

service with the Armée de Terre. The service 

ordered over 4000 such vehicles in many different 

variants, some 2000 were upgraded in the early 

2000s. A series of upgrade programmes have been 

launched to improve its protection level against 

some of the most significant Afghan threats in the 

form of a general vehicle upgrade, the adoption of 

add-on ballistic kits and remotely operated 

weapon systems. The latter configuration is known 

as Vab-Top and is based on the integration of the 

Kongsberg Protector equipped with side armour 

for the optronic sensors and the 01dB-Metravib 

Pilarw acoustic fire detection system. 

Eighty turrets were ordered in the first batches 

of a contract that will run until 2016 for an 

amount of up to $ 100 million. In November 2010 

Renault landed a contract for a further protection 

improvement known as Mined that includes 


new add-on armour, a V-shaped under-belly 

deflector, wheel arch add-on protection, the latest 

Nexter energy absorbing seats together with 

internal supports for weapons and equipment to 

avoid them flying around in case of explosion. 

The order was for about 120 kits, a second contract 

was filed in August 2011 to cover the 

remaining of the 400 or so Vabs deployed in 

Afghanistan. 

As part of that contract Renault will also 

carry out some improvements on the automotive 

components, namely the suspensions and the 

braking system for them to cope with the 13- to 

15.8-tonne weight increase. This also includes the 

Félin soldier modernisation equipment adaptation 

provided by Sagem, the first Vab equipped 

with the dedicated electrical network and chargers 

was delivered in early March 2011. 

The vehicles rolling off the assembly line at 

Limoges are known as ‘Ultima’ in a standard that 

includes all the latest upgrades adopted by the 

Armée de Terre. This however does not mark the 

end of Vab improvements: a ballistic protection 

is being developed for the two rear machine gun- 

All French VBCIs 

deployed to Afghanistan 

have been equipped 

with bar armour and 

add-on armour kits to 

further improve soldier 

protection. (Nexter) 

ners with deliveries expected for late 2012, while 

a passive protection against RPGs is being considered. 

Renault is proposing these on the international 

market, since over 1000 Vabs are operated 

around the world (Morocco is considered a 

primary target). 

Renault is also exporting powerpacks and drivelines 

to Indonesia for the locally built Panser 6 

x 6 personnel carrier, the latest order for twelve 

such kits was awarded in July 2011, but further 

orders are expected. Earlier that year Malaysia 

showed an interest for the Indonesian-built vehicle, 

which is very similar to the Vab. 

Renault is also proposing the Vab Mk 2, which 

can reach up to Level 4 ballistic and Level 3a/b 

mine protection. A further evolution, the Mk 3, 

A Czech Pandur in the 

Afghan deployment 

configuration with slat 

armour and self-defence 

equipment. Deliveries to 

the Czech Army are well 

underway. (Czech Army)

Whatever the mission, 

wherever, whenever 

SHERPA RANGE 

The world over, vehicles from Renault Trucks Defense 

offer the best protected land force mobility. 

> www.renault-trucks-defense.com

esulting from potential customer feedback will 

be at Eurosatory 2012. The company considers 

that if its portfolio eventually includes the VBMR 

and the Vab, they will not harm each other since 

the former will be in the 20- to 23-tonne range and 

the other around the 16-tonne mark. Besides, the 

Vab also maintains an amphibious capability and, 

in the simplest 44 configuration, would have be 

about half the price of the VBMR. 

Boxer 

The German-Dutch Boxer was born as a protected 

transport vehicle in order to comply with the 

limitations of the CFE treaty signed at the end of 

the Cold War, its original name, GTK, standing for 

Gepanzertes Transport-Kraftfahrzeug. 

Today’s Boxer is proposed for roles that go 

beyond those originally considered. With the 

acquisition of Netherlands Stork PWV, Rheinmetall 

now owns the majority in the Artec consortium, 

Krauss-Maffei Wegmann has a 36 % 

stake. Three companies are part of Artec, Rheinmetall 

MAN Military Vehicles (RMMV), Rheinmetall 

Nederland and KMW. 

Production of the 8 x 8 vehicle is well underway 

in Germany, with KMW responsible for the 

production of the 125 armoured personnel carriers 

and ten driving training vehicles while 

RMMV is manufacturing the 65 command post 

vehicles. The follow-on contract for 72 ambulance 

variants will see RMMV producing 20 such 

vehicles while the remaining 52 will roll off the 

6 

A Nexter VBCI pictured during desert trials in 

the Middle East. The vehicle is equipped with 

a light-calibre remote-controlled weapon 

station, sand tyres and improved air 

conditioning. (Nexter) 

The current delivery 

configuration of the 

VBCI. A programme 

aimed at increasing the 

infantry fighting 

vehicle’s gross weight is 

underway. (Armada/PV) 

Munich assembly lines. Personnel carrier deliveries 

started in 2009 and were about to be completed 

at time of writing, while all training vehicles 

have been delivered. 

In 2010 Artec began delivering command 

posts and ambulances, with deliveries planned 

respectively for 2013 and 2016. The first Boxers 

were deployed to Afghanistan in August 2011. 

Six vehicles were upgraded to the A1 standard 

which includes additional protection against 

mines and roadside bombs, while the FLW 200 

remote control turret was elevated by 300 mm to 

fully exploit the -15° elevation capability against 

close targets. This has added two tonnes to the 

33-tonne vehicle. 

Before the deployment both operational and 

maintenance crews from the 292 Jägerbattalion 

underwent extensive training. Five such vehicles 

are now operating downrange in the Mazar-e 


Sharif area, with positive feedback from the user. 

Consequently the Bundeswehr decided that all 

vehicles would be produced or retrofitted to the 

A1 standard. 

From vehicle no. 41 APCs are being delivered 

as A1s, the Occar has started a request for the 

upgrade of the first 40 vehicles delivered to A0 

standard. Command posts are being delivered in 

A1 guise from number 17 hence, while two 

ambulance vehicles were delivered to A0 standard. 

Work is on hold until the Occar gives the 

green light for A1 ambulance productions. 

As for the Dutch vehicles, a change in configuration 

on command post vehicles led to a contract 

modification that pushed the delivery date 

to the right until autumn 2012. In total the 

Netherlands Army will receive 200 Boxers in five 

different versions, namely 60 command posts, 52 

ambulances, 53 engineer vehicles, 27 cargo vehicles 

and command and control/cargo and eight 

driver training vehicles. 

A desert version of the Boxer APC was exhibited 

at Idex 2011, equipped with sand tyres and 

improved air conditioning system. However, the 

This 6 � 6 Vab Mk II was 

exhibited by Renault 

Trucks Défense at Idex. 

The Middle East is clearly 

one of the target areas 

for this vehicle. Both the 

4 � 4 and the 6 � 6 

provide Level 4 protection 

to their occupants. 

(Armada/PV) 

major evolution of the vehicle was seen in June 

2010 at Eurosatory, where both KMW and Rheinmetall 

exhibited infantry fighting vehicle versions 

equipped with different turret solutions. KMW 

installed the remotely-controlled RTC turret 

armed with an ATK Mk 44 30-mm Bushmaster 

cannon, thus retaining the full transport capacity 

of three crewmembers and eight dismounts. 

Rheinmetall showed the Boxer with its Lance 

modular turret (in the two-man version) armed 

with the Mauser Mk 30-2 30-mm cannon, the 

number of dismounts having been reduced by 

A French Army Vab 

equipped with the 

Kongs berg Protector 

turret armed with a 

12.7-mm machine gun 

featuring interesting 

protection for the optical 

systems. Part of the 

French Vab inventory is 

undertaking a ‘lifting’ 

operation in order to 

cope with the Afghan 

theatre requirements. 

(Renault Trucks Défense)

Photo credits: Aspheri, A. Bannister/Getty Images, Y. Debay, Stat - 01 41 37 96 70 

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two. Rheinmetall is now proposing the vehicle 

with the unmanned version of the Lance, the first 

target is Canada’s CCV, where the Boxer IFV 

will be proposed by the two local companies of 

the group, Rheinmetall Canada and RMMV 

Canada. Spain, the United Arab Emirates and 

Saudi Arabia are the other countries where bids 

for the Boxer might soon materialise. 

8 

Fuchs 

Rheinmetall’s second wheeled APC/IFV is the 

Fuchs 6 x 6. The German Army upgraded 124 

Fuchs’ of different versions to the 1A7 configuration. 

This includes new axles capable of withstanding 

a nine-tonne instead of six previously, 

bringing the vehicles max gross to 27 tonnes, 

although Rheinmetall considers 23.5 tonnes a 

realistic upper limit. The curb weight increase to 

19 tonnes results from the adoption of Chempro 

Mexas add-on armour kit, hydraulically assisted 

steering and air conditioning. 

Following deployment to Afghanistan and 

with the increasing mine and roadside bomb 

threat, the Bundeswehr placed a series of contracts 

to upgrade 134 vehicles to the 1A8 stan- 

Krauss-Maffei Wegmann developed an IFV 

version of the Boxer equipped with a crewless 

turret that is now proposed on the export 

market. (Armada/PV) 

dard. Protection, of course, was the main driving 

factor, and just for that purpose more than 20 

mods account for the difference between the 

1A7 and the 1A8 versions. Amongst these are a 

new floor, new energy absorbing seats and reinforced 

wheel guards. Additional struts were 

added in the rear for rigidity. 

Rheinmetall delivered 88 vehicles by the end 

of 2011, while 89 more will be delivered by 2013. 

A contract for eleven vehicles in the ambulance 

Renault Trucks Défense 

is proposing the Vab Mk 

II for those customers 

that need a better 

protected vehicle 

compared to the current 

Vab, but cannot afford 

the price of more 

sophisticated vehicles. 

(Renault Trucks Défense) 

version was signed in early December 2011 while 

another order for 32 vehicles is expected in 

2012/13. This version weighs 22.7 tonnes, leaving 

nearly one tonne for further upgrades. Rheinmetall 

is carrying out a research study to analyse 

if the Active Defence System could be effectively 

integrated on the Fuchs 1A8. Rheinmetall is of 

course actively marketing its Fuchs 2, which in 

perspective has a higher growth potential in 

terms of protection. 

A German Boxer in the ambulance version, 

similar to those that the Bundeswehr deployed 

in Afghanistan in August 2011. (KMW) 

AMV 

In November 2010, the Swedish Administrative 

Court confirmed the order for 113 Patria 

Armoured Modular Vehicles (AMV) that the 

Swedish Army should start receiving within 

2012. Following the completion of that order, 

which is worth € 250 million, the FMV might well 

confirm the option for another batch of the same 

size. Five versions are part of the first order, 74 

armoured personnel carriers, ten carriers/command 

posts, 18 ambulances, four C2 vehicles and 

seven repair vehicles. 

The other good news was the decision by 

Slovenia to renegotiate with Rotis, the local 

prime contractor, the contract for the acquisition 

of 135 AMVs signed in 2006, marked by a series 

of procedural problems. The Slovenian Army 

already took delivery of 30 vehicles, named 

Svarun by the service, ten of which were manufactured 

by Patria and 20 by Rotis under license. 

Considering cuts in defence spending the new 

contract will probably involve a reduced number 

of vehicles. 

The original contract included a fire support 

version featuring an Elbit Systems UT-30 remote 

control turret armed with 30-mm cannon and 

Spyke anti-tank missiles, an armoured personnel 

carrier version equipped with a Kongsberg Protector 

turret and a mortar version with a Patria 


Nemo turreted mortar. Patria AMVs are also 

being delivered in the Czech Republic, where it is 

produced under license by Duro Dakovic Special 

Vehicles (DDSV). The contract is due to be completed 

within 2012 with the delivery of the 120th 

locally produced vehicle of the 126 ordered. 

The major potential programme remains 

South Africa’s Hoefyster for 264 AMVs produced 

by Denel Land Systems. Worth approximately 

€ 770 million, the contract was for what is known 

as the Badger and including an LCT-30 turret and 

a breech-loaded mortar for the combat version. 

The Hoefyster programme has been delayed several 

times, but South African authorities confirmed 

in late 2010 that it had not been cancelled, 

a decision being awaited by late 2011. 

Patria is getting the first feedback from the 

deployment of Polish Army Rosomaks in 

Afghanistan. No details were unveiled but the 

company is using lessons learned to concentrate on 

a series of improvements. Patria is looking at 

weight savings to further increase payload and 

improve mobility. New versions are being developed, 

such as the Repair and Recovery unveiled at 

DSEi in 2011, which raised the interest of many 

users among which the Croatian Army. 

The AMV R&R has a crane with a boom 

reach of five metres. At full boom stretch and 5° 

angle it can lift up to 2.5 tonnes, increasing to 

four tonnes at 56°. It is also equipped with a 120kN 

winch. Combat weight for that version is 27 

tonnes, its height with crane being 3.2 meters. 

According to press sources the AMV should 

soon be tested in Colombia, where the local army 

is looking for an 8x8 APC. Patria also aims at the 

US Marine Corps AMC programme. 

Freccia 

The Italian Army is involved in a number of programmes 

aimed at the acquisition of new 

wheeled combat armoured vehicles produced by 

the consortium formed by Iveco DV and Oto 

Melara (CIO). The Freccia 8 x 8 AIFV is being 

delivered, the first batch of 50 vehicles in the 

combat configuration with Oto Melara Hitfist - 

mm KBA gun has already been handed over to 

the army. 

Since August 2010 an infantry company 

equipped with 17 Freccia AIFVs is operating in 

Afghanistan, and following some teething problems 

the availability has reached what the Italian 

Army defines as «an optimum level». Logistic 

support was adapted to that particular scenario, 

The desert version of the Boxer has been fitted 

with some dedicated features and tested in the 

Middle Eastern summer temperatures. 

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which had caused unexpected wear and tear of 

some components. The manufacturers kept a 

maintenance team on site for some months to 

solve all those issues. 

Operationally, the Freccia is used as a firebase 

and for troop protection. Part of the vehicles feature 

Selex Galileo Janus 1 independent observation 

sight. Reports indicate that it is considered a 

key item as it allows observing without aiming 

the gun towards the target. The army is awaiting 

the development of the Janus 2, as the current 

model does not allow the commander to slave 

the turret to its sight. 

The Janus 2 should also be capable of hosting 

a laser designator and should be installed on platoon 

and company commanders’ vehicles as well 

as on all the anti-tank Freccias. The latter has 

been qualified and 24 such vehicles will be pro- 

10 

Italy deployed its Freccia 8 � 8 in Afghanistan 

in Summer 2010 and has currently equipped 

a couple of regiments with this new wheeled 

fighting vehicle. (Armada/PV) 

duced as part of the second batch. This tranche 

includes 71 vehicles in the combat version, of 

which 50 have already been delivered and will be 

followed by the anti-tank Freccia that features a 

Spike launcher on each side of the turret. 

A mortar version equipped with the Thales 

2R2M is also part of Batch 1, with deliveries 

planned for early 2012. Twelve production mortar 

carriers are part of Tranche 2, with initial 

deliveries to commence five months after qualification. 

As for command posts, some prototypes 

with raised roof and mast-mounted aerials have 

been exhibited in the past years. The final version 

will be totally different though, as the army 

changed its mind and is now looking for two different 

types of Command Posts, namely an HQ 

CP and a Tactical CP. 

The HQ CP maintains most of the internal 

layout of the earlier prototypes, with a driver and 

six people in the back, but is based on a chassis 

sans raised roof. As for the Tactical CP, this will 

be based on a standard Freccia AIFV, but instead 

of the eight dismounts it will host in the back a 

command element of three men. It has been 

included in Tranche 2 and its delivery is planned 

within 2012. 

Tranche 3 is awaiting financing. As with the 

previous ones it will not draw on the defence 

budget but will be sponsored by the Ministry of 

Production Activities. It will include 88 vehicles, 

50 combat, eleven anti-tank, eight mortar carriers 

and 19 command posts (the latter including 

eleven tactical and eight HQ vehicles) with production 

spread between 2014 and 2016. 

Centauro 

The Italian Army and the CIO have launched a 

programme for replacing the current Centauro: 

known as ‘New Centauro Armoured Vehicle’ or 

Centauro 2, the new vehicle will feature better 

protection and firepower. The chassis will be a 

close derivative of that of the Freccia, with at 

Patria won the South African 

contract in spite of a legal 

opposition by competitors, but 

is still awaiting a formal 

production go-ahead. (Patria) 


least the same level of protection. New evolutionary 

armour packages might be installed but 

no details are available on protection levels. 

The Centauro 2 will be fully integrated in the 

Italian Army digitised battlefield network 

known as ‘Forza NEC’ and will thus be equipped 

with the Siccona command, control and navigation 

system. The chassis will be shorter compared 

to the current Centauro, as no scout team will be 

transported in the rear. The target weight is 30 

tonnes, which is considered the maximum for 

maintaining good mobility. 

Another target figure is a power-to-weight 

ratio of 24 hp/tonne, which commands a 720-hp 

Rheinmetall provided 32 

Fuchs NBC-RS to the United 

Arab Emirates based on the 

latest Fuchs 2 vehicle 

configuration. (Armada/PV) 

power pack. Power generation will be sufficient 

for all systems that will be installed on-board such 

as C4I, Janus 2+ panoramic sight, jammers, etc. 

Requirements also include the capability of linking 

to AC/DC external power sources for ‘silent 

watch’ operations with the engine stopped. 

The on-board power generation will retain a 

margin for ensuring growth capacity. On the 

Centauro 2 the main electric-powered item will 

be the all-electric turret armed with the 120/45mm 

smoothbore gun, a derivative of the turret 

adopted on Omani Centauros. 

In order to comply with the 30-tonne limit, 

studies are underway to adopt a carbon-fibre 

inner structure to support the add-on armour 

package. Requirements call for a total number of 

rounds similar to that of the current Centauro, but 

located in a different way to maximise safety, with 

ready rounds being stored behind safety walls 

that should not reduce the reloading speed. 

The maximum elevation required is 18°, 

which is slightly more than the current Centauro. 

The main sights will integrate Gen 3 thermal 

A high payload 

capacity allows the 

Patria AMV to be 

equipped with many 

different types of 

turrets armed with 

medium-calibre 

cannon. (Patria)

A Centauro about to be embarked to reach 

Lebanon. The Italian Army has deployed this 

vehicle in most operations and should soon 

provide some second-hand armoured cars to 

Jordan. The Centauro 2 programme is in its final 

design requirement stages and, depending on 

funding availability, a prototype could be 

delivered in 2014. (Armada/PV) 

cameras, while a recording system will save the 

images for intelligence purposes. A 360° closerange 

viewing system will increase situational 

awareness in urban terrain. 

Secondary armament will include the typical 

coaxial machine gun and a number of options for 

roof-mounted weapons. Two pintle-mounted 

weapons, typically 7.62-mm machine guns, will 

be available although one could be replaced by a 

40-mm automatic grenade launcher. According 

to the type of mission these weapons could be 

substituted for a remote control turret armed 

with either with a 12.7-mm machine gun or a 40mm 

grenade launcher. 

The Final Operational Requirements document 

has been finalised and approved by the Secretary 

General of Defence, and is awaiting Chief of 

Defence approval, although the current economical 

situation might cause some delays. The contract 

for the development phase, partly financed by 

industry itself, was signed and should lead to the 

manufacture of one prototype by 2014. A first 

batch of 74 New Centauros should be delivered 

between 2016 and 2018 to equip two cavalry regiments. 

The total requirement is for 280 units. 

When the first batch of Centauro 2s are delivered 

the army plans to start the Freccia 2 programme 

– a new wheeled IFV with increased 

protection and weight, and the same engine as 

the Centauro 2. The forecast requirement is for 

250 to 260 vehicles. 

The Italian consortium is promoting its vehicles 

in various areas. While the Spanish Army bid 

for an 8 x 8 IFV is considered to be on hold due 

to the country’s financial problems, South American 

instability is also making things difficult in 

an area where in recent years CIO carried out 

numerous marketing campaigns. 

Jordan might become a Centauro user, negotiations 

are underway with the Italian ministry of 

defence and the consortium regarding the transfer 

of 141 Italian Army Centauros that will partly 

be used as spares to obtain 80 serviceable vehicles. 

Two vehicles should be refurbished in Italy 

to provide on-job training for KADDB person- 

nel, the remaining of the work to be carried out 

in Jordan, with engines and guns to be refurbished 

in Italy. 

Following the acquisition of nine Centauros, 

Oman expressed some interest for the Freccia, 

with a potential requirement for 50 or 60 units. 

Looking east, the relations between Italy and 

Manufacture of the first 16 

pre-production vehicles, 

including the welding of the 

actual armoured body, has 

started at the Iveco do Brazil 

plant at Sete Lagoas. (Iveco) 

Russia in the defence field have considerably 

improved in the recent past and interest was 

expressed both for the Centauro and the Freccia, 

which might lead to the lease of two vehicles of 

each type for testing. 

Guarani 

Iveco DV was involved in the design of the new 

Viatura Blindada de Transporte de Tropas - 

Média sobre Rodas (VBTP-MR). The 6 x 6 now 

known as the Guarani is to replace the obsolete 

EE-11 Urutus and EE-9 Cascavels still in service 

with the Brazilian Army. To manage the VBTP- 

After a few teething 

problems, the Freccias 

deployed in the Afghan 

western region have reached 

a high level of reliability. 

Iveco and Oto Melara are 

currently developing the 

command post, anti-tank and 

heavy mortar carrier of the 

Freccia. (Armada/PV) 

MR programme Iveco Defence Vehicles created 

a new division called Iveco do Brazil. A production 

line is being readied at Sete Lagoas in an 

investment estimated at $ 75 million for an 

expected assembly of 2044 Guaranis. 

The first prototype, equipped with an Elbit 

Systems UT-30 turret, was delivered in Spring 

2011 and, following a firing demonstration to the 

main military authorities, started the test programme 

at the Centro de Avaliações do Exército 

(CAEX) at Marambaia. Currently Iveco has 

started welding the first chassis of the 16-vehicle 

pilot batch. An amphibious version in addition to 

the numerous specialised variants is planned, 

while an 8 x 8 platform equipped with a heavier 

gun, 90 or 105 mm, is among the designs that 

might interest the Brazilian Army. 

Turkey 

Three companies in Turkey are active in the 

wheeled combat vehicle business, Otokar, Nurol 

Makina and FNSS (a joint venture between 

Nurol and BAE Systems). A series of new developments 

were initiated by the decision of the 

The trials of the VBTP- 

MR developed by 

Iveco do Brazil and 

the Brazilian Army 

have started at the 

army CAEX at the 

Marambaia proving 

ground. (Iveco) 

armada Compendium Medium Armoured Vehicles 2012 11

Length: 7.70 metres 

Width: 2.80 metres 

Height: 2.30 metres 

Combat weight: 26 tonnes 

Maximum speed: 100 km/h 

Operating radius: 800 km 

Fuel capacity: 415 litres 

Amphibious: yes (

A Compendium of Medium Armoured Vehicles 








Amphibious: yes 

Engine: 336 kW 

Arma 8 x 8 Otokar, Turkey 

As Turkey currently has no 8 x 8 acquisition plans, Otokar is turning to those 

countries that do not produce this category of vehicle to export its four-axle Arma. 




Combat weight: 14.6 tonnes 





Engine: 191 kW Kamaz 7403 

BTR-80A JSC Arzamaz, Russia 

Based on the 1980s BTR-80 and introduced for the export market in the mid- 

1990s, the ‘A’ has a KBP 2A72 30-mm turret. 







Fuel capacity: 250 – 300 litres 


Engine: 221 or 335 kW 

Pandur 6 x 6 LWB GDELS-Steyr, Austria 

It has been totally overhauled mechanically and electronically, the 6 x 6 II can 

carry a 90-mm turret as maximum calibre. 








Amphibious: no 

Engine: 390 kW Deutz 2015TCD 

RG-41 BAE Systems OMC, South Africa 

The heavier member of the RG family adopts a modular concept that allows 

quick and easy repair even of heavily damaged chassis. The vehicle has been 

submitted to tough summer tests in the Middle East desert. 










Engine: 530 kW MTU 

Ascod 2 GDELS, Austria/Spain 

The common chassis adopted for the SV family is an evolved version of the 

Ascod’s used in the Ulan/Pizarro. 









Engine: 375 kW 2B-06-2C 

BTR-90 JSC Arzamaz, Russia 

A ‘beefed up’ and more powerful BTR-80, introduced in 1995, the BTR-90 features 

a BMP-2 turret with Konkurs AT missiles, but it is also available with 100 

mm and 30 mm turrets. 







Fuel capacity: n.a. 


Engine: 335 kW Cummins ISC 

Pandur II 8 x 8 GDELS-Steyr, Austria 

Following the sale of the 330 Pandur I 6 x 6s to six customers, the 8 x 8 Pandur 

II is being produced for the Czech Republic and Portugal. It can be armed with a 

105-mm gun. 









Engine: 261 kW Caterpillar C7 

Stryker GDLS, USA & Canada 

The Stryker programme now focusses on the Stryker ‘Double-V Hull’ (DVH), 

which increases the vehicle protection against mines and roadside bombs to 

Mrap levels.







Fuel capacity: Undisclosed 


Engine: 171 kW Cummins 6CTA8.3 

ASV Textron, USA 

Through the years the ASV has received a number of protection upgrades. BAE 

Systems has produced more than 2500 armour kits for the type. 









Engine: 388 kW Iveco MTCA 

Centauro Iveco/Oto Melara, Italy 

The 105 mm Centauro is in service with the Italian (400) and Spanish (84) 

armies. Oman has ordered nine armed with a 120-mm smoothbore gun. 








Amphibious: no (yes) 


Pars 6 x 6 FNSS, Turkey 

Developed to fulfil the Turkish Land Forces Special Purpose Tactical Wheeled 

Armoured Vehicle programme currently on hold, the Pars 6 x 6 is now proposed 

by FNSS on the export market. 










Terrex ST Kinetics, Singapore 

Entered production for the Singaporean Army in October 2009; equipped with 

a battlefield management system that allows it to connect with other land and air 

platforms. 










Engine: 336 kW UDT-29M 

BMD-4 Kurganmashzavod, Russia 

The Bakhcha-U was developed to provide direct fire support for Russian airborne 

forces with its 100-mm cannon/AT missile launcher and 30-mm coaxial 

cannon. 




Combat weight: 32 - 35 tonnes 






CV9035 Mk III BAE Systems Hägglunds, Sweden 

Developed for the Swedish Army with a 40-mm gun the CV90 has been sold to 

Finland, Norway and Switzerland with a 30-mm gun, and Denmark and the 

Netherlands with a 35-mm gun. 








Amphibious: no (yes) 

Engine: 373 – 448 kW 

Pars 8 x 8 FNSS, Turkey 

Apart from the two prototypes manufactured in Ankara, the first Pars-based 

8 x 8s, although deeply redesigned, are to be produced by Deftech in Malaysia. 









Engine: 410 kW Renault 

VBCI Nexter, France 

The French Army began replacing its tracked AMX10P with the 8 x 8 VBCI IFV 

(550 planned) and command (150) vehicles in 2008. The army is planning further 

specialist variants.









Engine: 478 kW UDT 32 

BMP-3 Kurganmashzavod, Russia 

The BMP-3 has undergone a number of varying upgrades over the years and a 

la carte upgrades are being offered by Kurganmashzavod. 









Engine: 405 kW Iveco 

Freccia Iveco/Oto Melara, Italy 

Based on Centauro running gear. Italy has ordered 54 of an expected total of 

249 in various configurations, all with the Sicona system to integrate the Soldato 

Futuro. 








Amphibious: optional 


Piranha Cl. 3 GDELS-Mowag, Switzerland 

A Piranha Class 3 exhibited at Eurosatory 2010 was equipped with an Oto 

Melara Hitfist turret and featured an urban camouflage pattern. 









Engine: 282 kW Iveco Cursor 9 

VBTP-MR Iveco, Brazil 

Brazil launched the replacement programme for its EE-11 Urutu and EE-9 Cascavel 

and chose the Iveco VBTP-MR as its future 6 x 6 personnel carrier and fire 

support armoured vehicle, that will be produced in country. 










Engine: 530 kW MTU V8 199 

Boxer Artec, Germany/Netherlands 

After a protracted development which saw Britain withdraw, deliveries of 272 

vehicles to Germany started in 2009. The Netherlands have 200 on order. 










Fuchs 2 Rheinmetall, Germany 

Following the success of the original Fuchs 1 in the NBC reconnaissance role 

with the German, British and American (as the Fox) armies, production of the 

Fuchs 2 was launched in 2007 with the sale of 32 to the UAE. 









Engine: 430 kW MTU 

Piranha Cl. 5 GDELS-Mowag, Switzerland 

To meet Middle East requirements General Dynamics European Land Systems 

developed a desert-oriented version of its Piranha Class 5. 









Engine: 410 kW Perkins V-8 Condor 

Warrior BAE Systems, UK 

Developed in the late 1970s and in service since 1984, the British Warrior is undergoing 

a lifting operation as part of the Warrior Capability Sustainment Programme, 

including a new 40-mm gun.

Turkish Land Forces Command to acquire a 

6 x 6 as part of a programme known as 

OMTTZA (Ozel Maksatli Taktik Tekerlekli 

Zirhli Arac). This was however put on hold in 

2010 and a new Request for Information is 

expected to be issued in 2012. 

Arma 

Otokar is the main Turkish armoured vehicle 

producer, with a portfolio ranging from main 

battle tanks to light armoured vehicles. In the 

wheeled fighting vehicle field the company 

developed the Arma, unveiled at Eurosatory 

2010, a 6 x 6 designed to provide high internal 

volume and good cross-country mobility. 

With the 450-hp engine located on starboard, 

the driver sits on the opposite front side followed 

by the commander who has the gunner on his 

right, while the rear compartment seats seven 

men. Fully amphibious without preparation, the 

two hydraulically driven propellers provide a 

swim speed of eight km/h. No details on protection 

levels are available, but this all-welded steel 

vehicle can be equipped with light- and mediumcalibre 

turrets or remote-control turrets. 

The vehicle was fully qualified by the end of 

2010, and in December that year Otokar bagged a 

first contract for an undisclosed country that 

acquired 20 units in the standard configuration 

armed with a 12.7-mm heavy machine gun in an 

open cupola. Deliveries started in 2011. In May 

2011 a second contract was received for an undisclosed 

number from an anonymous customer, 

although the contract value points to an estimated 

100 vehicles with deliveries starting in 2012. 

The Arma 6 x 6 is proposed in various configurations, 

including an EOD version equipped 

16 

The 6 � 6 version was 

the first of the Arma 

family developed by 

Otokar and it has 

already chalked up two 

contracts from 

undisclosed countries. 

(Armada/PV) 

with a hydraulic arm as exhibited at Idef 2011. 

Designed with a family concept in mind, the 

Arma 6 x 6 has already grown into an 8 x 8 boasting 

automotive component commonality with 

the exception of the gearbox. Its extra 1.35 

meters offers two more seats and the higher payload 

allowance is a boon for heavier turrets. 


8 prototype was completed in September 2011, 

and the vehicle is now ready for production (see 

title picture). Otokar is looking for customers in 

all those countries that do not produce vehicles 

of that category, as the Turkish Land Forces do 

not have a requirement for such a vehicle in the 

short-to-medium term. 

Pars 

The FNSS joint venture was created in 1988 to 

locally produce the Armoured Combat Vehicle, 

a derivative of the M113. The company unveiled 

its Pars (Anatolian Leopard in Turkish) wheeled 

vehicles in 2005. The aim was to develop a family 

of 4 x 4, 6 x 6, 8 x 8 and 10 x 10 vehicles. The 

first version was the Pars 8 x 8. 

Two prototypes have been built and demonstrated 

in at least two countries and since its first 

appearance the vehicle has been constantly 

upgraded. It is available in non-amphibious configuration, 

with a 30-tonne gross weight including a 

nine-tonne payload, or an amphibious version with 

a four-tonne gross and payload weight cut, swimming 

propulsion provided by two water jets. 

Idef 2011 was chosen by Otokar to unveil the roadside bomb clearance version of its Arma, 

equipped with a hydraulic arm. (Otokar) 

Unveiled in late April 2011, the Arma 8 x 8 

was displayed at Idef 2011 in Istanbul, Turkey 

equipped with the new Otokar Mizrak-30 modular 

remotely-controlled turret that can be armed 

with 20 to 40-mm cannon. Final testing of the 8 x 

The 6 � 6 version of 

the Pars family was 

unveiled by FNSS at 

Idex 2011. Here the 

vehicle with an urban 

warfare camouflage 

scheme is equipped 

with a Saab Trackfire 

remote weapon 

station. (FNSS) 

Compared to most infantry fighting vehicles 

of its category, the Pars 8 x 8 features a side-byside 

seating front cabin for the driver and commander 

who can control the surroundings on 

their flat screens with imaging provided by the 

front and rear thermal and CCD cameras, 

though three front and two side episcopes provide 

direct vision. A network based on Can bus 

technology ensures high-speed and high-resolution 

data transfer throughout the vehicle. 

The 500 or a 600-hp powerpack and fully 

automatic transmission are located centre-left, 

behind the front cabin, an aisle on the right side 

linking the front and troop compartment with 

twelve seats in the APC configuration. An allwheel 

steering system is used, while the semiautomatic 

pneumatic computer-controlled 

active suspension system increases comfort and 

mobility and allows adjusting ground clearance 

between 120 and 500 mm. The Pars 8 x 8 can be 

transported in an A400M. 

Apart from the two prototypes manufactured 

in Ankara, the first Pars-based 8 x 8s, although 

deeply redesigned, will be produced by Deftech

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in Malaysia where, in late May 2011, a contract 

was signed for the design, development and 

manufacture of the vehicle. This design was 

unveiled at DSA 2010. Denel of South Africa is 

also part of the team and provides the two-man 

turret armed with the GI 30 dual-feed linkless 

cannon that will equip one of the fighting versions, 

the other one featuring the FNSS Sharpshooter 

25-mm one-man turret. 

Known as the AV-8, it will be available in 

twelve different variants and will use drivelines 

supplied by Turkey. The advanced open vehicle 

electronic architecture system will be from the 

Thales VSys-net and will integrate a battlefield 

management system, a platform management 

system, navigation and situational awareness 

systems. 

The forward air controller operations variant 

will be equipped with Rheinmetall Nordic’s 

Vingtaqs II surveillance and reconnaissance system 

that provides target co-ordinates at long 

ranges and includes a laser designator. Deliveries 

of trial vehicles are planned for 2012, followed 

by production vehicles between late 2013 

and 2018. 

FNSS has developed a 6 x 6 version with a 

smaller engine offering eight rear seats (a maximum 

of eleven admissible). Any turret has to be 

mounted pretty far backwards, between the second 

and third axle, due to the engine’s position. 

It can be transported in a C-130H and is 

amphibious with a four-tonne payload (compared 

to the six of the non-amphibious version). 

It was unveiled at Idex in February 2011 in a personnel 

carrier version equipped with a Saab 

Trackfire remotely controlled turret armed with 

a 12.7-mm M2 HB machine gun. 

18 

This infantry fighting 

vehicle version of the 

Pars 8 � 8 is equipped 

with an FNSS 25-mm 

one-man Sharpshooter 

turret. (FNSS) 

Ejder 

Nurol Makina’s Ejder (Dragon) 6 x 6 APC has 

seen action in small numbers in the Russian- 

Georgian war, Georgia being its only known customer, 

though only a part of the 76 vehicles 

bought had been delivered at the beginning of 

the conflict. 

TBT 

In April 2011 the Romanian Government decided 

to launch the development of a personnel carrier 

known as the TBT 8 x 8 (Transportor Blindat 

pentru Trupe 8 x 8). An initial development contract 

was assigned to Uzina Automecanica 

Moreni, a Romarm company. Following the governmental 

decision, the Saur-3 8 x 8 became the 

First unveiled at 

Eurosatory 2010, the 

BAE Systems OMC RG- 

41 is the heavier 

member of the RG 

family and can be 

produced in numerous 

variants, among which 

APCs and IFVs. 

(Armada/PV) 


TBT 8 x 8, for which UAM is seeking international 

co-operation for its full development. 

This is in its very early stages, but the company 

has released some provisional data: 7.94 meters 

long and 2.88 meters wide, with an over-hull height 

of 2.175 meters. It will have a Level 2 baseline protection 

that might increase to Level 3 and Level 3a 

against ballistic and mine threats. Grossing at 22 

tonnes (19 for the amphibious variant), its payload 

capacity is estimated at three tonnes. 

Powered by a 430-kW Euro 3 engine it will 

reach 105 km/h with a 700-km range at cruise 

speed, while in the amphibious version. two waterjets 

afford a ten km/h swimming speed. The TBT 

8 x 8 will have a three-man crew seated in tandem 

on the left side, while six dismounts access the 

troop compartment via the rear ramp. The vehicle 

will feature a remotely controlled turret armed 

with a 30-mm gun with dual ammunition feed and 

a Nato-compatible battle management system. 

RGs 

The wheeled vehicle branch of BAE Systems is 

its South African OMC division, which has garnered 

huge experience in this field in the past. 

The Nurol Makina 

Ejder has been sold to 

Georgia but no further 

customers have 

appeared since. 

(Armada/PV) 

The heavier member of the RG family is currently 

the RG-41, a prototype of which was 

unveiled at Eurosatory 2010. An 8 x 8 powered 

by a 523-hp engine with a 30-tonne gross weight 

and an eleven-tonne payload capacity, its semi Vshaped 

hull provides Level 4a/b baseline protection 

against mines. 

Carrying a driver plus ten dismounts in APC 

configuration, the high payload allows it to 

accommodate any type of turret up to 105 mm. 

With a two-man medium-calibre turret it hosts a 

three-man crew and seven dismounts. The overall 

cabin volume is 14.9 cubic metres; the driver 

position is connected to the rear compartment 

via a wide corridor on the left (the engine being 

on the right). 

One of the design choices was to push 

forward the first axle in order to have a 75° angle 

of approach to cope with difficult obstacles, 

a capacity further enhanced by the 16.00 R20 

tires that also reduce ground pressure to a minimum 

with the help of a central tyre inflation 

system. Width was kept at 2.84 metres to ensure 

good mobility even in urban terrain. For rough 

terrain mobility, the vehicle is equipped with 

enhanced independent suspensions with longstroke 

hydro-pneumatic struts. 

The RG-41 hull is divided in five modules, the 

frangible part of the sections being located

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underneath the semi-V shape hull to which the 

drive train is attached. Crew safety is enhanced 

by the adoption of BAE Systems Schroth energy 

absorbing seats. 

Prototype no.1 was tested in South Africa and 

in the United Arab Emirates’ hot climate, which 

led to a number of smaller changes incorporated 

into prototype no. 2. This was submitted to four 

blast tests and was then repaired and exhibited at 

DSEi 2011, after which it was submitted to rigorous 

testing at the Millbrook test track. 

BAE Systems OMC is carrying out conceptual 

work on manned-turret versions (the RG-41 

exhibited was equipped with the company’s new 

TRT-25 remotely controlled turret) as well as on 

an artillery version equipped with 105-mm ordnance. 

The company considers the Middle East 

as its primary market in the 2012-13 timeframe, 

followed in the longer-term by Spain, Britain and 

Norway. In late 2010 the company underlined its 

vision for the Land 400 Australian requirement 

for which the RG-41 has been highlighted as the 

possible wheeled element. 

In South Africa, BAE Systems OMC is pushing 

for a reopening of Project Hoefyster, which 

led to the choice of the Patria AMV 8 x 8 when 

no vehicle of South African origin fulfilling the 

requirements was available. 

For nations looking for a cheaper combat 

vehicle, BAE Systems OMC proposes its RG-35 

6 x 6 which can reach an all-round Level 4 protection 

both against ballistic and anti-mine 

20 

The 6 � 6 version of 

BAE Systems OMC RG- 

35 can be equipped 

with a medium-calibre 

turret, turning it into lowcost 

infantry fighting 

vehicle. (BAE Systems) 

threats, with a 33-tonne gross weight including 

nearly 15 tonnes of payload. It provides a 15 

cubic-metre protected cabin and can host up to 

15 dismounts plus the driver. 

The vehicle can be equipped with a mediumcalibre 

two-man turret; the number of dismounts 

being reduced accordingly. Compared to the RG- 

41, which has an all-armoured driver compartment, 

the RG-35 architecture is quite different as 

it features a front windscreen providing ample situational 

awareness to the two men seated in the 

front cabin with access via two side doors. 

The engine is located on the left side, leaving 

an ample passageway on the right. The rear compartment 

has two long armoured glass windows 

on each side with a door at right – a sharp contrast 

with the RG-41 equipped with an optronic 

situational awareness system and a rear ramp. 

BAE Systems OMC is currently refining the 

RG-35 6 x 6, and in summer 2012 will take it to 

the UAE for hot-weather trials. The Middle East 

and Africa are the main marketing areas. 

Mbombe 

Another recent South African entry is the 

Mbombe, developed by the Paramount Group, 

unveiled in late 2010. This 6 x 6 offers good situational 

awareness thanks to the front windscreen, 

side driver windows, four side and two 

rear windows in the cargo compartment. These 

are all protected by slats to maintain good visi- 

Ukrspecexport is 

actively marketing 

its BTR derivatives 

and is looking for 

further contracts in 

the Middle East. 

(Armada/PV) 


bility while reducing the risk of direct hits that 

might degrade window transparency. 

At 27 tonnes with an eleven-tonne payload, it 

has all-round Level 4 protection and can withstand 

the explosion of a 50-kg bomb bursting at five 

metres. Discontinuing the traditional South 

African deep V- shape hull, its 4a/b level mine protection 

is afforded by an innovative under-belly 

energy absorption package. This helps keep the 

vehicle shape relatively low, its height being 2.34 

meters with a ground clearance of 430 mm. 

In the personnel carrier version the Mbombe 

hosts the driver and vehicle commander in front 

and up to nine dismounts in the rear. The concept 

demonstrator was fitted with a 30-mm one-man 

turret, though remotely controlled medium-calibre 

turrets are envisaged, as are protection 

upgrades, mainly against RPGs. At Idex the vehicle 

was exhibited in the Emirates International 

Golden Group stand, an indicator of a close cooperation 

with that company. More recently 

The Mbombe was developed by the South 

Africa Paramount Group and features a flat 

bottom that provides Level 4 protection against 

mines. It boasts numerous and ample slatprotected 

glass areas that provide optimal 

situational awareness to the driver and the 

crew. (Paramount) 

Renault officials talked about a co-operation 

with Paramount, but no details were given. 

BTR 

BTR series vehicles are still raising interest 

around the world; companies like Kharkiv 

Morozov in the Ukraine and JSC Arzamaz in 

Russia are being quite active on the market. At 

DSEi, the former, under the auspices of the Ukrspecexport 

national export company, showed its 

BTR-4 and BTR-3E1, the latter apparently 

again high on the Royal Thai Army shopping list. 

The service has already bought 96 equipped with 

a Shturm turret armed with a 30-mm gun and 

Bar’er anti-tank missiles, some 30 such vehicles 

having been delivered. A further contract for 121 

seems ready to be signed. 

Arzamaz launched the production of the 

BTR-82, an upgraded version of the BTR-80 featuring 

a 300-hp engine, better protection against 

mines and roadside bombs and a turret that can 

host either a 14.5-mm machine gun or a 30-mm 

2A72 cannon, plus a 7.62 coax MG, the lighter 

solution giving birth to the BTR-82 while vehicles 

with the heavier armament are known as 

BTR-82A.

Asia 

Looking at Asia, things have not evolved much. 

South Korea did not move towards the acquisition 

of a new wheeled armoured vehicle. 

Hyundai Rotem KW1 and KW2, Doosan Infracore 

Black Fox and Samsung MPV are still 

awaiting decisions from the national customer, 

while no contract has yet materialised on the 

export market. The same fate is apparently hitting 

Taiwan Aerospace Corporation’s CM-32 

Yunpao 8 x 8. 

In Singapore, ST Kinetics is mass producing 

the Terrex, which became operational in May 

2011, the 2nd Battalion, Singapore Infantry Regiment 

being the first unit equipped with the new 

vehicle. Tests in Colombia are imminent according 

to local sources. As for China, its VN1 and 

WMZ551 are still seeking export orders. 

Throwing a Track? 

The Puma is the only ground-up new 

tracked vehicle in the Western world 

in a long time 

The main tracked vehicle programmes in the western hemisphere are those related to 

the acquisition of a new family of combat vehicles by the US Army, following the cancellation 

of the Future Combat Systems programme. This has left American ground 

forces with capability gaps and seen the postponement of the replacement of a number 

of combat vehicles, such as the Bradley Infantry Fighting Vehicle. 

The new programme that should lead to a 

replacement of most of the US Army’s 

tracked fleet was named Ground Combat 

Vehicle. Requirements for priority one vehicle, 

an infantry fighting vehicle, were issued in a 

revised request for proposals in November 2010, 

stipulating delivery in 2017. The vehicle should 

be capable to withstand mines, roadside bombs, 

RPGs and ballistic threats and accommodate 

crew plus nine dismounts. 

It should be able to operate across the full spectrum 

of military operations, from conventional to 

asymmetrical conflicts, whether on open ground 

or in urban areas. The army set the cost bracket 

between $ 9 and 10.5 million apiece (although 

later figures indicate an $ 11 to 13 million bracket), 

with an operating cost of $ 200 per mile. 

GCV Teams 

One year later the programme is still on hold and 

its future is uncertain. Criticism came from the 

Government Accountability Office about the 

real need for such a vehicle in that timeframe, 

although this did not stop the army from launching 

the first step, the Technology Development 

phase. Originally up to three such contracts were 

to be passed, however in August 2011 only two 

contracts were issued, worth a total of $ 890 million 

split on two teams. 

The Hyundai Rotem 

KW1 6 � 6 was 

developed for a national 

Korean requirement for 

which bids should soon 

open. The 8 � 8 KW2 

(seen here in model 

form) is still awaiting a 

launch customer. 

(Armada/PV) 

The first is led by General Dynamics Land Systems 

and includes Lockheed Martin, Raytheon 

and Tognum America (MTU power generation). 

The second, the BAE Systems-Northrop Grumman 

team, includes Qinetiq, iRobot, MTU and 

Saft – the latter, a leading battery specialist, 

because the team proposes a hybrid drive. 

A third team led by Science Applications 

International Corporation was not selected for 

this phase although it included Boeing, Krauss- 

Maffei Wegmann and Rheinmetall Defence; the 

two German companies bringing their experience 

with the Puma, particularly regarding the chassis, 

powerpack and running gears, while gun, ammunition 

feed, ballistic and active protection would 

have been the prerogative of the Americans. 

Following its exclusion the SAIC team filed a 

protest that froze the programme. The protest 

was however turned down by the General 

Accounting Office in early December, allowing 

the US Army to resume work and thereby avoid 

further delays. 

Following a two-year technology development 

phase that will lead to the preliminary 

design review, up to two contracts will be awarded 

for a 48-month engineering and manufacturing 

development phase that will in turn lead to 

an early prototype at the end of the first year and 

to a ‘full-up’ prototype three years later. 

A low-rate initial production contract is 

scheduled for mid-FY17, the first production 

vehicle being awaited in late FY18 with a First 

Unit Equipped in early FY20 and an initial operational 

capability in mid-FY20 with a first Heavy 

Brigade Combat Team. This timeline was established 

in October 2010, but might be revised following 

the break caused by the above-mentioned 

protest. Should the US Army go for the 

GCV and decide to replace its Bradleys with the 

new vehicle, production may reach the 1800 

mark, just with the IFV variant. 

Armored Multi Purpose 

The other main tracked vehicle programme in 

the US Army is the Armored Multi Purpose 

Vehicle, which aims at replacing the M113. With 

some 3000 units at stake, the programme has yet 

to be launched due to financial constraints and 

above all the choice of tracks versus wheels has 

not yet been made. 

BAE Systems is proposing a solution based on 

the refurbishment of the Bradleys that are not cur- 


ently in use and on their re-rolling, which will 

include the upgrade to the A3 standard, the adoption 

of new anti-mine kits, turret removal and the 

adoption of mission-related systems. 

Five versions are being offered, heavy mortar 

carrier with a 120-mm weapon, command and 

control, general purpose and two medical versions, 

one aimed at evacuation and one at treatment. 

Should the about 2000 Bradleys currently 

not in use be sufficient, new vehicles could be 

produced to the new standard. 

The RDT&E phase would require nearly 

$ 300 million spread over five years, while the 

acquisition phase should require around $ 1.6 

billion. However, a noteworthy point is that to 

bridge the gap until the GCV enters in full service, 

the current Bradley IFV fleet will need a further 

refurbishment, considering wear and tear 

from recent operations downrange. 

Warrior 

Of the two major British programmes, the Scout 

SV and the Warrior Capability Sustainment Programme 

(WCSP), it is the latter that has been 

assigned first. Lockheed Martin’s proposal based 

on a refurbished turret was selected, the contract 

award being announced on 25 October 2011 by 

the Minister for Defence Equipment, Support 

and Technology. Phase 1 claims £ 642 million 

(€ 740 million), while the overall programme 

value is forecast at £ 1 billion (€ 1.6 billion). 

The Lockheed Martin-led Warrior Transformation 

Team (WTT) includes Ultra Electronics, 

the Defence Support Group, Scisys, Rheinmetall 

Defence, Curtiss Wright, Thales UK, Moog, Meg- 

22 

Lockheed Martin won the bid for the Warrior 

Capability Sustainment Programme. The 

upgraded turret is armed with a CTAI 40-mm 

gun. (Lockheed Martin UK) 

How long the Bradley 

will remain the frontline 

US infantry fighting 

vehicle will much 

depend on the Ground 

Combat Vehicle 

programme. (BAE 

Systems) 

gitt, CTA International, Westwire, TKE, MTL 

and Caterpillar UK. The choice for the CTAI 40mm 

gun using encased telescopic ammunition 

saves a lot of room inside the turret, which allows 

the installation of new vetronics and will 

improve crew comfort and safety. 

The refurbished Warrior features blast-resistant 

seats and a modular protection system to 

adapt the protection to conditions (bar armour, 

add-on passive armour or ERA along the chassis). 

Situational awareness is provided by a series 

of external cameras. Increased power needs are 

addressed by the adoption of an improved generator 

while an intelligent power management and 

distribution system optimises consumption. 

The WSCP programme will run until 2023, 

with the Full Operational Capability planned for 

2020. Ten vehicles will be used for extensive trials 

in the 2013-14 period. Some 380 Warriors are 

involved. 

Lockheed Martin is offering elements of the 

WCSP programme to Kuwait, the Gulf country 

having acquired 254 Desert Warriors in the early 

‘90s. Kuwait should soon launch a request with a 

view to bringing back its vehicles to full operational 

status, but it is not clear whether this will 

also involve a drastic improvement. 

Scout SV 

Lockheed Martin’s WCSP solution has numerous 

common subsystems with the General 

Dynamics UK Scout Specialist Vehicle, Scout SV 

in short; the reconnaissance tracked vehicle 

based on the Common Base Platform (CBP) that 

will be used for other variants, aimed at replacing 

the ageing CVR(T) fleet. 


The General Dynamics proposal was selected 

in March 2010 and in July a £ 500 million (€ 574 million) 

contract for the design and demonstration 

phase was assigned. Due to current financial shortcomings 

the green light has not yet been given to 

the programme production phase that at best will 

be delayed, with figures reconsidered. 

The Recce Block 1 of the Specialist Vehicle programme 

includes four variants, Scout Reconnaissance, 

Protected Mobility Reconnaissance Support 

(PMRS), Recovery and Repair. The common chassis 

adopted for the SV family is an evolved version 

of the Ascod’s used in the Ulan/Pizarro (the Austrian 

and Spanish fighting vehicles). Compared to 

the original 30 tonnes the new chassis will have a 

growth potential up to 42 tonnes. Engine is based 

on the MTU 8V 199 TE21, the latest iteration of 

which kicks 815 hp versus the Ascod’s 721 hp, providing 

the baseline reconnaissance version with a 

power-to-weight ratio of 24 hp/tonne considering a 

34-tonne initial combat weight. 

The SV powerpack is being optimised for hot 

and dusty working conditions, with the adoption 

of a self-monitoring and pulse jet air clean filter 

as well as a double cooling system, while generous 

electrical power generation provides a 100 

% growth capability in terms of subsystem consumption. 

The vetronics backbone of the SV 

family is the General Dynamics Core Infrastructure 

Distribution System that provides a 100 % 

growth in data and power availability, reducing 

volume by 60 % and weight by 21 % compared 

to current systems, while ensuring savings in 

The Scout 


General Dynamics UK 

Specialist Vehicle 

family is equipped 

with a turret developed 

by Lockheed Martin 

based on the 

Rheinmetall Lance 

structure armed with a 

CTAI 40-mm gun. 

(General Dynamics 

UK) 

repair time, training and logistics. The CBP Ethernet 

open architecture allows information 

transfer at 20 Gb/sec while on-board storage 

capacity is six TB, as the Scout variant is, first of 

all, an intelligence-gathering vehicle. 

The turret development and production falls 

under the responsibility of Lockheed Martin UK 

and is based on the Rheinmetall Lance turret 

structure equipped with the CTA International 

40-mm cannon (the same as the WSCP’s), commander’s 

and gunner’s sights are being provided 

by Thales, while Meggitt is in charge of the ammunition 

handling system. The 1.7-meter diameter 

turret ring ensures comfort even when the crew 

wears body armour and allows the installation of 

Barco’s TX-335S 13-inch crew station display. 

The Scout SV commander’s sight includes 

automatic detection and tracking, exploiting targets 

thermal signature, and has provisions for a 

laser target designator. Both sights have digital 

video outputs that comply with the new Vetronics 

Infrastructure for Video Over Ethernet stan-

dard, which allows easy forwarding of images. 

The Scout SV accommodates a two-plus-foursoldier 

combat team. 

The Scout SV development is well advanced 

and the prototype exhibited at DSEi 2011 differed 

from the production version only in terms 

of armour. The first development turret armed 

with the CTAI 40 mm successfully fired five 

months ahead of schedule in May 2011. Its turret 

was then installed on the PT3 chassis as a riskreduction 

move, to verify the mating between 

the two main elements, as the new turret ring is 

considerably larger than the original one. 

The Scout SV successfully passed the SDR in 

mid-July 2011, and its Mobility Test Rig was to be 

completed by the end of 2011 to allow de-risk 

testing on the powerpack, suspensions and automotive 

elements. The contract includes the production 

of seven prototype vehicles and four 

prototype turrets. The first trial vehicle should 

reach the British Army in early 2013. 

CV90 

BAE Systems Hägglunds, through the CV90, has 

acquired long experience in the Afghan theatre. 

The first CV9030s deployed there belonged to 

the Norwegian contingent. The increasing roadside 

bomb threat led Norway to fit its vehicles 

with an upgraded version equipped with better 

under-belly protection. Recently a new kit was 

qualified by a third party, the new add-on armour 

protection exceeding Level 4a/b. 

A Gen. 3 Vehicle Information System (VIS) 

has also been developed to improve the manmachine 

interface and provide greater flexibility 

when adding new vetronics. The development of 

semi-active suspensions is in its final stage of 

qualification and ready to be integrated into serial 

production. 

Armadillo 

New variations on the CV90 theme were recently 

unveiled with the insertion of new BAE Systems 

technologies. At Eurosatory 2010 the company 

introduced the Armadillo, which already 

included the aforementioned under-belly protection, 

but with ballistic protection exceeding 

Level 5 and a weight of 16 tonnes sans mission 

module. 

The prototype exhibited was equipped with a 

Bofors-BAE Systems Lemur remotely controlled 

12.7-mm heavy machine gun turret and 

the Saab Leds-150 hard kill active defence system. 

The mission module was the armoured personnel 

carrier one, which could accommodate 

eight, which brings the vehicle combat weight in 

that configuration to 26 tonnes and leaves a 

FNSS Mil. Design 2011 

growth margin of nine tonnes since the total 

upper limit is 35 tonnes. 

Command and control, casualty carrier, 

repair, recovery and mortar carrier modules are 

being considered as well as a bridge-layer version. 

Since June 2010 the Armadillo concept has 

been thoroughly developed and the vehicle is 

now in the pre-series stage, BAE Systems looking 

forward to bag a first contract within one 

year. 

Hide and Seek 

Also shown at the latest DSEi was ‘the Ghost’, a 

CV90120-T version sporting an infrared, radar 

and acoustic stealth configuration. The infrared 

concealment device is called the Adaptiv, a camouflage 

system based on tiles that are individually 

able to change their temperature according to 

a pattern established by the on-board computer, 

which itself receives the pattern data necessary 

With shrinking defence budgets, most companies tend to redevelop available vehicles rather than reinvent the wheel (or the track), while services 

look more for efficiency and low life-cycle cost systems than for exotic designs. To fight any potential grey cell sclerosis syndrome, Turkish 

FNSS organised a design competition open to professional and to university student categories. 

In the professional category the first prize went to the AHTO-985 6 x 6 design by Bülent Özkurt, based on a 

hybrid propulsion system with in-wheel electric motors powered by batteries. These are charged by a diesel 

engine and roof-mounted solar panels. Second came the MP-ATV (Multi Purpose-Armoured Tactical Vehicle) 

by Designnobis, a six-designer team creating a more conventional vehicle for military and border patrol duties. 

Prize number three went to Gökhan Keman for his ‘ılgaz-ms’ project with a pretty futuristic powerplant based 

on sunlight, wind and electromagnetic power. The vehicle incorporates future technologies such as electro-magnetic 

armour systems, electro-magnetic weapons, electronic camo, thermal stealth and others. 

The second price among university student projects went to Serdar Soyalfor’s Kangal; a four-wheeler with 

AHTO-985 

axles located at the extremities of the chassis to ensure an entry angle of 75° and an exit angle of 90°. Both steer 

to ‘turn on a penny’. Its compact dimensions (4.8 meters long and 2.97 meters wide) make it an ideal reconnaissance 

vehicle. However, a rear-mounted trailer carried in the upright position when not in use is quite unique and 

when lowered, the vehicle stretches to 5.9 meters to turn into a 6 x 6. 

The Plug100 is an interesting concept proposed by Mert Kayacan, who obtained a mention. It features numerous 

innovative elements into a hexagonal body structure, adopted for robustness as well as for maximising internal 

volume. Its rubber tracks are driven by individual electric motors making it a sort of ‘tracked 4 x 4’. The powerhouse 

consists of 200-kW LiFePO4 batteries plus ultracapacitor and a diesel generator. The hybrid solution 

allows stealthy movement when running on batteries and provides an underwater fording capability. The Plug100 

weight is estimated at 21 tonnes, its dimensions being 5.9 meters in length and 2.9 meters in width, and in the APC 

MP-ATV 

configuration it can carry up to 13 soldiers. 

Kangal 

Plug100 

The Armadillo 


CV90 developed by 

BAE Systems Hägglunds 

allows the vehicle to be 

quickly re-roled thanks 

to the flatbed that can 

host a mission module. 

(BAE Systems) 


to blend the vehicle into its background from the 

vehicle’s own thermal camera. Being «coolable» 

the tiles are also radar absorbent. 

The Ghost was also equipped with Soucy rubber 

tracks, which Norway already uses on its 

CV90s deployed to Afghanistan. Combat weight 

is set at 28 tonnes, but trials at 35 tonnes are 

being carried out to clear these tracks at that 

weight within 2012. Band tracks reduce the noise 

by ten dB and bring with them a series of collateral 

advantages such as a 1.2-tonne weight 

reduction, increased comfort and reliability. 

To further reduce noise, BAE Systems Hägglunds 

is migrating the hybrid technology adopted 

on the Sep prototype into the CV90 propulsion 

system, a major customer has already shown 

interest in that solution. The CV90 Ghost also 

featured some other modifications, such as a 

redesigned nose end, a new driver’s hatch ensuring 

better visibility, as well as the new VIS. The 

Rheinmetall Rh120 LLR L/47, which is a halftonne 

lighter than the standard 120-mm gun, was 

fitted. 

Puma 

KMW and Rheinmetall are producing what can 

be considered the state-of-the-art mechanised 

infantry fighting vehicle in the form of the Puma. 

Following the latest German decisions, the new 

army structure envisages only nine mechanised 

infantry battalions, thus only 350 Pumas will be 

Compendium Medium Armoured Vehicles 2012 

Supplement to issue 1/2012 

Volume 36, Issue No.1, February/March 2012 

INTERNATIONAL 

is published bi-monthly in Zurich, Switzerland. 

Copyright 2012 by Internationale Armada AG, 

Aeulestrasse 5, LI-9490 Vaduz, Liechtenstein. 

Head Office: Armada International, 

Hagenholzstrasse 65, CH-8050 Zurich, Switzerland. 

Phone: +41 44 308 50 50, Fax:+41 44 308 50 55, 

e-mail: mail@armada.ch; 

www.armadainternational.com www.armada.ch 

Publisher: Caroline Schwegler 

Editor-in-Chief: Eric H. Biass 

Editor/Artwork: Johnny Keggler 

Advertising & Production Manager: Thomas Schneider 

Regular Contributors: Roy Braybrook, Paolo Valpolini, 

Thomas Withington 

24 

Based on the Marder chassis, the Rheinmetall 

Close Combat Vehicle unveiled at Idex 

featured numerous technologies and systems 

from within the group. (Armada/PV) 

needed compared to the original number of 410. 

The first ten Pumas are currently in production, 

four having been already assembled, and deliveries 

to the German Army are planned for 2013 

for an initial operational capability one year 

later. Then the Puma will start replacing the 

Marder in German service. 

Marder 

The Bundeswehr upgraded 70 of its nearly 200 

Marders to 1A5 standard, with mine protection, 

air conditioning and other upgrades aimed at the 

Afghan scenario. The availability of surplus 

Marders led Rheinmetall to consider marketing 

options for those vehicles, and it is offering them 

with various levels of upgrade and in different 

configurations ranging from IFV to APC, command 

and control, logistic and ambulance, up to 

medium tank armed with a 105-mm gun. 

Rheinmetall also proposed a Marder version 

for the Canadian CCV bid, but opted out when 

Canada included in the requirements that only 

new components were accepted. The German 

company’s concept was to propose a vehicle with 

a highly protected second-hand chassis equipped 

with a modern turret and fighting systems, for 

about half the price of a new vehicle. A technology 

demonstrator was shown at Idex 2011 

named Close Combat Vehicle (CCV). 

Dedicated to urban warfare, improvements 

were adopted in all three areas, protection, 

firepower and mobility, leveraging the capabilities 

of the Rheinmetall Group and providing a 

solution at zero-weight increase. Weight savings 

were obtained adopting an Amap-based armour 

package provided by IBD Deisenroth/Rheinmetall-Chempro 

and installing the Lance 

remotely controlled turret armed with the Wotan 

30-mm gun. 

Firepower improvements came from the bigger 

calibre, the dual-feed system and provisions 

ATK C4 

FNSS 19 

General Dynamics Land Systems 9 

Military Vehicles 17 

Nexter 7 

NovAtel C2 

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Index to Advertisers 

for airburst munitions. The commander sits in the 

hull, behind the driver, with the gunner at his 

side, both with the same turret controls. The commander 

can observe the battlefield through the 

Seoss P periscope on 360° while the gunner uses 

the Seoss-S sight. Both systems feature a daylight 

colour TV camera, a thermal imager and a laser 

rangefinder. A 15% power increase results from 

the adoption of a new powerpack. 

M113 

The ubiquitous M113 has been used for several 

evolutions and is still marketed under various 

forms. The following depicts only a few examples 

of the latest configurations proposed by different 

companies. 

FNSS in Turkey is still marketing the ACV 

and ACV-S (the ‘S’ stands for stretched) derivatives 

of the M113 respectively with five and six 

road wheels. The Turkish ACV programme was 

at the origin of the FNSS and then FMC, and a 

considerable number of such vehicles were sold 

in-country and worldwide. The basic APC weighs 

14.5 tonnes and carries a crew of three plus eight 

dismounts, while the ACV-S IFV with a two-man 

turret which weighs 18.5 tonnes and hosts six 

infantrymen. 

The Philippines was among the latest IFV 

customers. FNSS also co-operated with Deftech 

in Malaysia, the latter producing 211 Adnan 

ACV, including a version equipped with the 

FNSS 25-mm Sharpshooter one-man turret. 

Eight 120-mm Mortar Carriers were also delivered 

while 48 more ACVs are being delivered 

under an additional contract. 

Israel Military Industries developed a deeply 

modified M113 version known as Urban Fighter, 

optimised for asymmetric warfare in urban 

areas. Its armour package provides Level 4 ballistic 

protection while slat armour is aimed at 

defeating RPGs. 

a 

Otokar 17 

Renault Trucks Defense 5 

Sofradir 7 

Steyr Motors 19 

Uralvagonzavod C3 

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A Compendium of Medium Armoured Vehicles - Wescam

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