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Introduced by IMI as a proof of concept vehicle, the development
of the Wildcat continues with the promise to introduce the worlds
first RPG protected wheeled vehicle. In 2006 the vehicle's configuration
changed to reflect the evolving requirements for a versatile
urban warfare combat vehicle. IMI based its platform on the
Czech built Tatra 4x4 platforms, providing excellent cross-country
and road mobility. In late 2007 the Wildcat 'Alpha' prototype
went through a series of mobility tests held in Israel, demonstrating
excellent cross-country mobility, as well as unpaved road mobility.
Wildcat was designed to meet current USMC specifications and
is expected to begin testing by the USMC by early 2008. (More...) |
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 The
WildCat is powered by water cooled, turbocharged 321 HP EPA
2004 compliant diesel engine (Cummins ISLe+325) coupled with
an automatic 6 speed transmission (Allison model 3066P). The
chassis uses TATRA's unique backbone tube and swing axle Independent
suspension offering excellent cross country mobility and improved
crew comfort, provided by the independent suspension and high
ground clearance of 367mm (adjustable). At a maximum gross weight
of 15 tons, the WildCat will be able to travel up to 700km on
road, and retain full cross country and obstacle handling capabilities.
The WildCat will be designed as a family of armored vehicles,
introducing several variants, all using a single chassis, an
integrated welded monocoque hull accommodating 12 fully equipped
crew members, offering counter-mine, small-arms and IED protection
(STANAG 4569 Level 2a and 3b). The levels of protection will
be provided. The vehicle is designed with multiple accesses
in the sides, top and rear (full width ramp) enabling flexible
mount/dismount for troops and equipment, eliminating the need
to expose troops to enemy fire. The Wildcat is equipped with
run-flat tires, central tire inflation system CTIS), NBC protection
and automatic fire extinguishing systems.
The basic protection level, common to all Wildcat
configurations will meet STANAG 4569 Level 3 (small arms bullet-proof
armor). The vehicle is designed for C-130 and A-400M air transportability.
An up-armored version, equipped with hybrid armor suite will
meet STANAG 4569 Level 4 using passive lightweight armor based
on IMI's 'Iron
Wall' counter IED design. Battle damaged modules are designed
to be field replaceable by the forward support elements, and
unlike larger and heavier armor plates, do not require the use
of heavy lifting equipment. This armor can be augmented with
a hybrid armor suite, using IMI's explosive reactive armor (ERA)
specially designed for thin armored vehicles, to protect against
shaped charge attacks including RPG. (Such Kit B armor protection
is depicted in the artist concept drawing below)
 Some
of the variants will include an infantry carrier carrying 11
passengers - 3 crewmen and 8 troops seated in protected seating
compartments; a police/border patrol vehicle will be designed
for low intensity warfare and general security tasks. A scout
and combat support vehicle is also planned, utilizing a reduced
fighting compartment and open deck for equipment and mounting
of external equipment. Reconnaissance and command and control
versions will be optimized for carrying and operating of electronics
equipment, while combat service support vehicles, including
ambulance, recovery and logistics will be modeled with installations
and interior design for each of these specific roles.
The photos on this page depict the Wildcat equipped with the
Kit A armor, providing bullet proof, counter mine and counter
IED protection, based on IMI's 'Iron Wall' counter IED protection
modules. The Wildcat is provided with three access ports two
ramps - on the side and rear and a cabin door on the right.
The crew compartment and front cabin also connected, offer comfortable
movement fore and aft. Other access ports include multiple armored
hatches on the deck. The vehicle also has side and elevated
windows, to provide the vehicle's crew with unobstructed view
and improved situational awareness in open area as well as in
dense urban environment. This vehicle is designed for medium
protection level (STANAG 4586 level 4). It is also fitted with
eight firing ports (three to each side and two at the rear).
When fully configured, the Wildcat will also mount a remotely
controlled weapon station.
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