RG-34 | |
---|---|
Type | MRAP |
Place of origin | South Africa |
Production history | |
Designer | IADSA |
Manufacturer | BAE Systems South Africa |
Produced | 2009 [1] [ unreliable source? ] |
Specifications | |
Mass | 9,500 kg [1] |
Length | 5,050 mm |
Width | 2350 mm |
Height | 2150 mm |
Crew | 8 [1] |
Armor | Welded steel [1] |
Main armament | various |
Engine | Fuel diesel [1] 160 kW (215 hp) [1] |
Power/weight | 25.1 hp/tonne |
Transmission | 5-speed automatic [1] |
Fuel capacity | 156 litres |
Operational range | 1000 km [1] |
Maximum speed | 105 km/h [1] |
The RG-34 (formerly denoted as Iguana FV4) is a South African Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected vehicle (MRAP). Specially designed to be mine-resistant, it has been produced in multiple variants, equipped for troop or cargo transport, command, and fire support. [2] [3] Originally showcased with a wide turret ring and a 90mm rifled cannon, the RG-34 was one of the first MRAPs configured to carry a large gun system. [4]
Development of the Iguana was initiated under contract by Industrial & Automotive South Africa (IADSA) for a Belgian firm, Sabiex; the first prototype being completed in early 2002. By June 2009, BAE Land Systems had obtained necessary rights to develop and manufacture the vehicle. [5] The RG-34 was initially displayed with a potent weapons system for an MRAP, in the form of an overlarge turret fitted with a 90mm (3.5 in.) gun. [6] This has since been replaced by a more ergonomic tactical remote turret (TRT) boasting a 25mm M242 autocannon and a co-axial 7.62mm machine gun. [1]
RG-34's cross-country performance is attributed to its unique suspension, a multi-link hydro-pneumatic structure mounted on a very rigid chassis. This affords optimal performance on road surfaces, a superior turning radius, and clearance over rugged terrain. When deployed in the reconnaissance role long-range fuel tanks give the vehicle an extended operating range of 1,000 kilometres. [1]
The hull of the RG-34 is of welded steel construction. Despite the weight restrictions imposed on wheeled platforms, all-around armour protection is reasonable against 7.62mm AP rounds at 30 metres, air burst fragments, and anti-tank mines. [1]
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