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 gun.[6] This has since been replaced by a more ergonomic tactical remote turret (TRT) boasting a 25mm M242 autocannon and a co-axial 7.62mm machine gun.[1]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