BAE Systems launches armored recon vehicle
By Design Engineering Staff
General BAE Systems military TAPVRG35 RGU Reconnaissance Patrol and Utility Vehicle developed for Canadian TAPV program.
The BAE Systems business in South Africa has developed a modified version of its RG35 vehicle, called the RG35 RPU, as a contender for Canada’s Canadian Tactical Armored Patrol Vehicle (TAP-V) program.
The tactical 4X4 wheeled vehicle is designed for reconnaissance missions but can also be equipped with light and medium turrets, as well as direct and indirect-fire weapons. It can also be modified to transport cargo, conduct routine patrols, or outfitted with cameras and other electronics for surveillance missions.
According to Chris Chambers, VP and general manager of BAE Systems’ Tactical Wheeled Vehicles business, the RG35 RPU features a unique armour protected capsule, designed to shield against mine blasts, roadside bombs and gunfire.
The RG35 RPU is approximately 5.2 meters long, 2.6 meters wide, and 2.5 meters high, with a ground clearance of 414 millimeters. The vehicle’s gross mass is 21,000kg and seats driver plus 9 crew members.
The TAP-V program is intended to replace the RG31 and Coyote reconnaissance vehicles currently used by the Canadian forces.
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