Protected patrol vehicle programmes: a survey

Protected patrol vehicles balance mobility with protection from mine and ballistic threats. While they come in various size, weight and protection configurations, the current trend is pointing towards prioritising enhanced mobility over heavy armour. What follows is a selected overview of currently marketed systems.

Protected patrol vehicles (PPVs) are versatile or multi-mission-capable vehicles. The British Army provides a concise profile, stating that PPVs “are used in combat, combat support and combat service support roles across the battlespace, including within the direct fire zone. Some have an organic self-defence capability which can be optimised to support offensive operations.” They come in many iterations and in various vehicle types. During the initial phases of the Afghanistan and Iraq conflicts, Western armed forces rushed to procure thousands of protected platforms, many of them mine-resistant, ambush-protected (MRAP) vehicles, which subsequently formed the backbone of many PPV fleets. With the end of those conflicts, many services moved to divest or reduce their MRAP inventories, reasoning that they would have limited utility in future peer-warfare.

Streamlining inventories and simplifying logistics is another goal of several PPV programmes. The British Armed Forces’ Land Mobility Programme (LMP), as one example, hopes to replace up to 11 currently operated vehicles with three platforms – one each in the following categories:

• LMP – Light Mobility Vehicle (LMV); an unprotected platform in the ≤5 tonne range.
• LMP – Light Protected Mobility (LPM; a lightly-protected platform in the ≤10 tonne range.
• LMP – Medium Protected Mobility (MPM); a medium-protected platform in the <20 tonne range.

Current PPV procurement programmes are placing greater emphasis on mobility and flexibility over pure armour protection as the primary survivability factor. That being said, PPVs continue to be acquired in various weight and size classes, from lightly- to heavily-armoured, from 4×4 to 6×6 configured vehicles. This continues to include some MRAPs, although the newer models tend to have a lower centre of gravity and improved mobility compared to early models. While the precise borders between weight classes are somewhat fluid, systems below 10 tonnes gross vehicle weight (GVW) are generally considered lightweight, with those up to 20 tonnes classified as medium weight. Mission spectrum and capabilities profile can factor into how vehicles which straddle two weight classes are categorised. As indicated above, PPVs are multi-capable systems which can be configured or dispatched in a variety of mission modes as required. Irrespective of vehicle weight class, sensors, weapons and other mission-specific equipment are major factors determining both operational capability and survivability.

GDLS Foxhound

The British Army introduced the Foxhound light protected patrol vehicle in 2011. Originally designed and produced by Ricardo PLC and Force Protection Europe (now owned by General Dynamics Land Systems; GDLS) as the Ocelot, it is lighter and more manoeuvrable than the service’s heavier PPVs, making it particularly suitable for mentoring and partnering missions. The British Army’s website describes the Foxhound as providing “unprecedented levels of blast protection for its size and weight (…) This is an agile and versatile vehicle that will be a mainstay in the Army for years to come.” The 7,500 kg GVW vehicle accommodates six including the driver, and has an on-road speed of 110 km/h.

The current inventory is expected to serve until 2030. In July 2024, the MoD published a voluntary ex-ante transparency (VEAT) notice confirming the procurement of up to three Foxhound technical demonstrator platforms (TDPs) from GDLS. According to the VEAT, these will be used to assess whether the currently in-service Foxhound fleet could be modified to extend its use beyond 2030 or whether new-build Foxhounds could meet an extant vehicle requirement.

Arquus Scarabee

The Scarabee developed by Volvo subsidiary Arquus stands out among other PPVs due to its bold modern look, hybrid-electric propulsion, and unique capabilities profile. The air-droppable vehicle has a GVW of 8,000 kg, and at 5.25 m long, 2.1 m wide, and 2 m tall (without optional weapons mounts), presenting a comparatively low silhouette. Together with the ability to approach targets in electric drive mode (greatly decreasing its acoustic and thermal signatures), this boosts survivability as well as the suitability for covert operations. The four-wheel steering capability, which enables the vehicle to ‘crab steer’ sideways, further enhances the ability to make maximum use of urban, woodland or mountain terrain for surveillance and covert approaches.

In its baseline configuration, the Scarabee seats four including the driver. Depending on the mission, the Scarabee can be equipped with roof-mounted radar, visual sensors, or weapons including a 30 mm automatic cannon, or the Akeron MP ATGM. Other options include the Arquus Battlenet Battle Management System (BMS), NBC protection, and a radio controlled improvised explosive device (RCIED) jammer.

Joint Light Tactical Vehicle (JLTV)

The US and numerous other armed forces continue to acquire the JLTV, with the vast majority of vehicles being delivered to the ground forces. The 6.2 m vehicle has a GVW of approximately 10,200 kg, and can be transported by heavy-lift helicopter. The JLTV is designed to provide protection comparable to MRAP vehicles while being considerably more manoeuvrable and fuel-efficient. The basic protection level of STANAG 4569 Level 1 can be enhanced with additional modular armour kits as mission conditions dictate.

As defined by the US Army, the JLTV is intended to provide protected, sustained, networked mobility across the full range of military operations, while balancing payload capacity, performance, and protection. The combat tactical vehicle variant of the JLTV can be configured for general purpose, heavy gun carrier, and close combat weapon carrier missions, with corresponding mission-specific equipment packages.

Oshkosh Defense began producing the JLTV in 2015. Under a new contract, AM General will begin producing the newer JLTV A2 variant, with full-rate production expected to begin in summer 2026. AM General highlights the A2’s improved fuel efficiency, an upgraded drive train and suspension, enhanced lithium-ion batteries, and enhanced corrosion protection. The A2 design also includes a simplified user interface to support future enhancements, upgrades, and integrations.

GDELS Eagle

The General Dynamics European Land Systems (GDELS) Eagle V tactical armoured vehicle is available in 4×4 and 6×6 configurations, with respective GVWs of 10,000 kg and 15,000 kg. Both configurations utilise the same chassis and drive train components to simplify logistics and maintenance. The De Dion suspension with its axle articulation and high wheel travel enhances off-road mobility and stability while minimising crew discomfort. The basic STANAG 4569 Level 1 protection package can be augmented by supplementary modular armour up to STANAG 4569 Level 3, and can include RPG netting. An RWS can be optionally mounted on the vehicle roof, with various user-defined armaments possible.

Both variants are highly versatile and can be configured for numerous roles. The 5.4 m long 4×4 vehicle has a 3 tonne payload and accommodates four combat-equipped soldiers including the driver and commander (2+2); while a fifth seat can be optionally integrated for non-permanent use. The high torque Cummins Diesel engine permits on-road speeds of 110 km/h and a range of 700 km. The 6.9 metre 6×6 offers a higher personnel-carrying capacity, allowing up to 12 including driver and commander (2+10) in the troop carrier configuration, as well as higher useful payload capacity of 5 tonnes.

Nurol Makina Ejder Yalçın

In September 2023, Nurol Makina presented the Ejder Yalçın 4×4 PPV at the UK’s Millbrook Proving Ground in Bedfordshire (UK). The vehicle was marketed to the UK as the ‘Dragon 4×4’, and was being geared toward the British Army’s LMP-MPM programme. At the Defence Vehicle Dynamics 2024 (DVD 2024) exhibition, Nurol Makina also announced the establishment of a British subsidiary, Nurol Makina UK (NMS UK), to market vehicles and services to the British Army and third countries, and signed a partnership agreement with NP Aerospace to provide vehicle integration and support services. Building on these initiatives, NMS UK acquired a manufacturing facility in Leamington Spa in September 2024, to allow UK domestic production.

The Ejder Yalçın 4×4 has a GVW of 14,000 kg to 18,000 kg (depending on wheelbase and configuration) and is offered in numerous variants including armoured personnel carrier (APC), reconnaissance, command and control (C2) vehicle, anti-tank, air defence, mortar carrier, ambulance, and mine clearing. Ballistic protection is scalable, and Nurol Makina cites blast protection conforming to STANAG 4569 Level 4A/4B, which is equivalent to 10 kg of TNT under the body or under any wheel location. In terms of mobility, the vehicle is able to climb 60% gradients, navigate 30% side slopes, clear vertical obstacles 0.5 m tall, and ford water up to 1.1 m in depth without preparation. Options include CBRN protection, a central tyre inflation system (CTIS), protected fuel tanks, and engine-preheating for cold environments. The baseline variant seats up to 9 crew including driver and commander (2+7), while the extended wheelbase (EWB) variant expands the seating capacity to a maximum of 12 soldiers (2+10).

Arquus MAV’Rx

The newest PPV entry is the MAV’Rx (pronounced: ‘Mavrix’), presented as a prototype at Eurosatory 2024. Arquus emphasises that the multi-mission platform has been designed for high-intensity operations, serving in roles ranging from personnel carrier to anti-tank platform, to command and control or medical evacuation vehicle. As described by the firm, the MAV’Rx is conceived as a well-protected vehicle that retains a high degree of mobility while accepting heavier payloads.

The 19,000 kg GVW, 6.98 m long vehicle features a large internal space capable of seating the driver, commander, and eight dismounts, who benefit from relatively generous headroom, interior climate control, as well as ergonomic seating and design. Electrically assisted doors and a rear ramp facilitate rapid exit and entry. The vehicle is fitted with a 298 kW (400 hp) engine and seven-speed automatic transmission, permitting speeds of around 100 km/h, while the independent suspension, CTIS and run-flat tyres preserve mobility and stability under many tactical scenarios.

The useful payload capacity ranges from 2.5 tonnes to 4 tonnes (depending on the ballistic protection level selected), which is sufficient to allow the MAV’Rx to mount a turret armed with a medium-calibre weapon to provide a direct fire support for its dismounts. The vehicle demonstrated at Eurosatory 2024, featured a John Cockerill Defense SPWS Gen.2 turret, armed with a 25 mm automatic cannon. Other major operational systems include the Battlenet electronic architecture and battle management system (BMS) which connects the various on-board systems and enables networking with eligible friendly units. This facilitates the use of features such as on-board sensor fusion, monitoring vehicle health, video sharing, and blue force tracking.

Rheinmetall Fuchs Evolution

At the heavier end of the scale, and moving into dedicated wheeled APC territory, the Fuchs 6×6 family was introduced in 1979, with the Fuchs 2 being built by Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles (RMMV) since 2007. The Fuchs family has seen service with numerous users worldwide, and Rheinmetall is now offering the Fuchs Evolution as the latest family variant.

Like its predecessors, the Fuchs Evolution can be configured for a wide variety of roles including combat reconnaissance vehicle, APC, and ambulance. Technology upgrades promise to keep the Fuchs Evolution relevant for the coming decades. System attributes revealed by Rheinmetall include a digital electronic architecture, a 360° surveillance system with day and night cameras, and a nuclear, biological, chemical (NBC) filtration system. In terms of mobility, the vehicle is provided with an MTU 6V 199 TE20 turbocharged diesel engine developing 339 kW (455 hp), permitting a top speed of 100 km/h, and a range of 800 km. The vehicle remains amphibious up to weights of 22,000 kg, and can be fitted with rear propellers, permitting swim speeds of up to 10 km/h. Rheinmetall cites a maximum GVW of 25,000 kg, including up to 9,000 kg payload capacity. The hull offers up to 11.5 m³ of internal space in the high-roof variant (with an interior roof height of 1.60 m), and 10 m³ in the standard roof configuration (with an interior height 1.40 m).

In the combat reconnaissance vehicle configuration, the vehicle can carry the driver, commander, and 10 dismounts. This version was displayed at Eurosatory 2024, fitted with a turret armed with a medium-calibre automatic cannon, along with an optronic sight mounted on a telescopic mast. Additional options include laser warning receivers, acoustic gunshot detector, and obscurant smoke grenade launchers. Ballistic protection is scalable, from STANAG 4569 Level 2 to Level 4, depending on configuration and user requirement, though the vehicle remains amphibious only up to Level 2. Mine protection is likewise scalable from Level 2a/2b up to Level 4a/4b.

New armour solutions?

In general, lightly armoured vehicles tend to be the most agile. The obvious disadvantage is the greater vulnerability to hostile fire. New battlefield threats, including drones and loitering munitions, have added a new dimension to protecting military vehicles of all classes. Optional modular armour upgrades can address threat scenarios on a mission-by-mission basis, albeit at the expense of reduced mobility and range.

Innovative materials promise some relief here by enabling production of modular armour components which are lighter and less thick than current passive and reactive applique, while offering comparable protection. Technologies being researched include ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) fibre-reinforced composites, which have a favourable strength-to-weight ratio compared to many alternatives. Systematic development of these and similar technologies will significantly contribute to future PPVs’ ability to sustain a balance between firepower, mobility, and protection.

Sidney E. Dean