The United Arab Emirates’ (UAE’s) Mobile Land Systems has completed development of it latest Viper 4×4 mine-resistant ambush-protected (MRAP) vehicle and is awaiting its first contract, according to the company’s spokesperson Mohamed Ahmed.
As with its other wheeled armoured fighting vehicles (AFVs), the Viper MRAP was developed using internal research and development funding to meet potential home and export requirements.
Viper has a lower profile compared with some other MRAP types and features an all-welded monocoque steel hull that can be supplied with ballistic protection from STANAG 4569 Level 1 through 4 and blast protection to STANAG 4569 Level 3a/2b depending on customer requirements.
A protected powerpack is at the front and, according to Ahmed, this was designed for ease of access. The bonnet opens upwards under hydraulic power, and there are protected side doors fitted to allow ease access for routine maintenance.
Viper is powered by a Cummins 8.9 litre turbocharged diesel developing 450hp, coupled to a 6-speed ZF automatic transmission and a cooling pack designed to operate in high temperatures. Its gross vehicle weight is 18 tonnes, and its power-to-weight ratio is 25 hp/tonne.
The vehicle is fitted with an independent suspension system and a programmable central tyre inflation system.
The Viper 4×4 MRAP was designed by Mobile Land Systems for use in high ambient temperatures. (Mobile Land Systems)
The crew (commander and driver) each have a forward-opening side door, and eight dismounts can sit facing inwards on blast attenuating seats that can be folded upwards; there are two doors in the hull rear.
The crew compartment is fitted with a fire/explosion detection and suppression system, and they can see around 360° through bullet/splinter proof windows.
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