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
-
![Drone wars: countries are looking for answers but do companies have the solutions?]()
Drone wars: countries are looking for answers but do companies have the solutions?
Manufacturers are speeding up their counter-drone development efforts as countries increasingly focus on procurements to provide battlefield and national protection.
-
![Sweden seeks US HIMARS missile system to expand long-range strike capability]()
Sweden seeks US HIMARS missile system to expand long-range strike capability
The proposed $920 million deal would provide Sweden with a step up from its existing tube artillery and align the country with other northern European nations that have selected the HIMARS platform.
-
![Thales Storm 2 counter-drone system being evaluated by potential customers]()
Thales Storm 2 counter-drone system being evaluated by potential customers
The attack drone threat from first-person view uncrewed aerial systems has been highlighted by recent conflicts and Thales has adapted its Storm 2 counter-improvised explosive device jammer to provide protection.
-
![Rolls-Royce to lead powertrain development for MGCS in important step for the programme]()
Rolls-Royce to lead powertrain development for MGCS in important step for the programme
The move signals significant progress for the delayed Franco-German Main Ground Combat System programme with first powerpack prototypes set to be tested before the end of the decade.
