RG-34 explained

RG-34
Origin:South Africa
Type:MRAP
Is Vehicle:yes
Designer:IADSA
Manufacturer:BAE Systems South Africa
Production Date:2009[1]
Weight:9,500 kg
Length:5,050 mm
Width:2350 mm
Height:2150 mm
Crew:8
Armour:Welded steel
Primary Armament:various
Engine:Fuel diesel
Engine Power:160 kW (215 hp)
Transmission:5-speed automatic
Fuel Capacity:156 litres
Pw Ratio:25.1 hp/tonne
Vehicle Range:1000 km
Speed:105 km/h

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

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 gun.[6] This has since been replaced by a more ergonomic tactical remote turret (TRT) boasting a 25mm M242 autocannon and a co-axial 7.62mm machine gun.[1]

Design

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]

Variants

Operators

Current operators

Manufactured for the Nigerian Armed Forces as the Proforce Pf1.[7] Possibly shelved in favour of the Igirigi.[8]

Production rights granted.[9]

Produced under license as the Deftech AV4.[10] Two were ordered by the Royal Malaysian Police.[10] Up to 200 were scheduled to be produced under license, although it remains unclear whether this was successful.[4]

See also

External links

Notes and References

  1. Web site: RG34 Multi Purpose Mine Protected Vehicle (MPMPV), South Africa. army-technology.com . 2009 . 14 November 2013.
  2. Web site: Defense Update: BAE Systems Introduces the RG-34 Light Armored Vehicle, 6/4/2009. 4 November 2014. 4 July 2009.
  3. Web site: New model for SA armoured vehicle company . Engineeringnews.co.za . 7 July 2009 . 14 November 2013.
  4. Book: Camp. Steve. Helmoed-Römer. Heitman. Surviving the Ride: A pictorial history of South African Manufactured Mine-Protected vehicles. November 2014. 241. 30 Degrees South. Pinetown. 978-1928211-17-4.
  5. Web site: BAE Systems acquires S African designed Iguana light armoured vehicle. Frontier India . 24 June 2009 . 14 November 2013.
  6. http://www.defenceweb.co.za/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2606&Itemid=362 DefenceWeb: BAE Systems announces RG34, 6/23/2009
  7. Web site: Nigeria to unveil indigenous armoured personnel carrier. Guy Martin. 4 November 2014. 2 July 2012.
  8. Web site: Nigeria opens ballistic armour factory; showcases first indigenous APC. Guy Martin. 4 November 2014. 4 July 2012.
  9. Web site: Легка бронемашина Iguana FV4 - Військова панорама . wartime.org . 19 December 2011 . 14 November 2013.
  10. Web site: BAE Systems Buys South African Iguana LAV. Is it the Deftech AV4 in Drag? - Malaysian Defence.