Oshkosh turns the SandCat into an Off-road Border Patroller

The vehicle can be customized for a variety of high-risk missions in places ranging from rural outposts to city streets. The TPV employs military-grade armor protection that meets or exceeds the highest-threat scenarios border security officers face. The vehicle offers NIJ Level IV protection, and is capable of stopping multi-hit, armor-piercing rounds. Other protection measures include high-energy-absorbing under-body armor, ballistic-steel roof and suspended-seat systems and run-flat tires, providing optimum safety and security for occupants and the vehicle.

The TPV footprint is more compact than other tactical vehicles used for border patrol. The vehicle carries up to eight people and is available with a payload capacity of 4,220 pounds. Based on a Ford F550 chassis shortened to a 295cm (116") wheelbase, the TPV uses upgraded with heavy-duty suspension components for off-road mobility. The vehicle has a 6.4L V8, 325-hp engine and can reach a road speed of 120km/h (75 mph). The vehicle's off-road mobility is enhanced with selectable four-wheel drive.

bstacle negotiation capability is also impressive for a vehicle of this size. With ground clearance of 330mm (13 inches) TPV has a 38-degree approach and 30-degree departure angle, enabling the vehicle to handle a vertical step of up to a 46 cm (18") height. It can also handle up to 60-percent grades and 36-degree static side slopes. Front and rear winches aid in vehicle self-recovery in muddy terrain or deep snow.

Photos: Oshkosh Defense