Recently, General Dynamics European Land Systems (GDELS) has unveiled a new version of the IFV Piranha in its 10×10 variant called the “Heavy Mission Carrier” (HMC).
The new model of IFV aims to address the observed need in several NATO nations for highly mobile vehicles to support the renewal processes of their wheeled armored fleets. This includes a IFV featuring a new axle, specifically five axles, with a multi-link suspension system (MLS) that provides greater off-road mobility and has a payload capacity of up to 17 tons within the framework of its 40-ton gross weight.
Dr. Thomas Kauffmann, Vice President of Sales and Global Services at GDELS, made the following statement regarding this: “PIRANHA HMC is a direct response to the evolving payload and space requirements of our global customer base for versatile and multipurpose missions including direct and indirect fire, air defense, and tactical bridging capabilities.”
Meanwhile, the Piranha IFV family, in its 4×4, 6×6, 8×8, and now 10×10 variants, already boasts over 20 users in its client list comprised of various military forces. With over 12,000 units of different versions sold to countries such as Australia, Chile (with production by FAMAE under license), the USA, Spain (whose future 8×8 Dragon vehicle is based on the Piranha 8×8 design), and Brazil, the company’s success in selling its IFVs is evident.
Giuseppe Chillari, Vice President of Wheeled Vehicles at GDELS and Managing Director of GDELS-Mowag, commented on this: “This unique vehicle platform is the result of our ongoing effort towards innovative automotive and transmission technologies combined with over 40 years of excellence and experience as an OEM of world-class vehicles.”
Image credit: Marcelo Casal, General Dynamics European Land Systems.
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