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LAV III - Light Armoured Vehicle
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Variants:
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Specifications: Length: 6.98 m Width: 2.7 m Height: 2.8 m Speed: 100 km/hr Range: 450 km Weight: 16 950 kg Gradient: Maximum 60% Side slope: Maximum 30% Trench crossing: 2 m wide Fording: Up to 1.2 m Sights: Daytime optical, Thermal Imagery (TI), Generation III Image Intensification (II) Spotlight: Maxa Beam, 6 million candle power, portable, with infra-red filter Winch: Double Capstan constant pull winch Engine: 350 hp Caterpillar diesel Transmission: 6 forward gears, 1 reverse Transfer case: 2 speed Suspension: Hydropneumatic Brakes: Power (air) with ABS Wheels: 8 x 8 drive Entered service: 1999 Number in service: 651 |
Description/History
This fast, well-armed LAV III is a state-of-the-art troop carrier that will serve the needs of mounted infantry well into the new century. The vehicle is well protected and can be used day and night, in all weather conditions, in battlefield smoke and on most types of terrain. Capable of speeds of up to 100 kilometers per hour on roads, the LAV III will give the commander many more options in both combat and non-combat situations. For example the commander may choose to keep the troops mounted and protected while using the 25-mm stabilized cannon — an option not available in the past. The driver and the commander have display terminals for the Tactical Navigation System (TACNAV), as well as thermal viewers. The TACNAV links a Global Positioning System (GPS) with a digital magnetic compass and laser range finder. Good anti-mine performance and an automatic fire and explosion suppression system provide additional safety for the crew. When used as an infantry section carrier, the LAV III deploys with a vehicle commander, a gunner, a driver and seven infantry soldiers. When deployed as a Tactical Command Post, it carries six soldiers. Three other variants are being procured including a Forward Observation Officer (FOO), TOW Under Armour (TUA) and an Engineer variant.