Cutting the weight while keeping the protection: NP Aerospace looks for an answer
NP Aerospace’s Ridgback MPPV upgraded with the Slimline Integration Capability Kit and roof mounted Moog Reconfigurable Integrated-weapon Platform. (Photo: NP Aerospace)
Vehicles in the Mine Resistant Ambush-Protected (MRAP) class have done the job so far this century in protecting crews but this has meant additional weight and reduced mobility. One recent upgrade approach is looking to redress that balance.
Using internal R&D funding, NP Aerospace has completed the first example of the Ridgback 4x4 Medium Protected Patrol Vehicle (MPPV) fitted with its Slimline Integration Capability Kit, which aims to unlock new potential as well as extending operational life.
The standard Ridgback has an all-welded steel hull with appliqué passive armour and then bars and slats outside to help to neutralise rocket-propelled grenades fitted with a high explosive antitank warhead.
While enhancing survivability, this extra armour is heavy and increases the gross vehicle weight by some 1,500kg which means a reduced payload.
In addition, it adds width which can limit
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Land Warfare
-
![US DoD task force’s DroneHunter acquisition lays groundwork for Replicator 2 CUAS strategy]()
US DoD task force’s DroneHunter acquisition lays groundwork for Replicator 2 CUAS strategy
As the US Department of Defense looks to counter the growing threat of uncrewed aerial systems to improve homeland security, the DroneHunter acquisition could point to future commercial innovation.
-
![Norway opts for Hanwha’s Chunmoo for long-range fires under $2 billion deal]()
Norway opts for Hanwha’s Chunmoo for long-range fires under $2 billion deal
The selection of Hanwha’s K239 Chunmoo long-range precision fires system, with a contract expected to be signed on 30 January, makes Norway the second European country to choose the system. It is expected an operational system will be in service within four years.
-
![Layered protection: How air defence is adapting to rising drone and missile threats (podcast)]()
Layered protection: How air defence is adapting to rising drone and missile threats (podcast)
A surge in aerial threats – from advanced missiles to low-cost drones – is reshaping the way militaries approach air defence, driving demand for flexible, multi-layered solutions.
