LAAD 2011: Oshkosh looks to light tactical market

US manufacturer Oshkosh Defense has exhibited its SandCat Tactical Protector Vehicle (TPV) in Latin America for the first time at LAAD 2011.

The company believes the vehicle, which is part of its light-payload vehicle portfolio, offers the region a protected, highly manoeuvrable vehicle for use in law enforcement, border patrol and security operations.

‘In this market not everyone needs an MRAP type vehicle or heavy transport, that is why we brought our TPV. It’s suited to more of an urban environment, but still offers a level of protection and mobility that is desirable,’ Noah Byers, director business development, global sustainment, told Shephard.

The Sandcat’s armour system can be customised based on the threat level and mission profile while the seating capacity can be adjusted to accommodate four to nine passengers. The vehicle can also be equipped with standard or customised storage, and is typically integrated with a wide array of weapons and communications systems.

‘One of the features people have said they like is the ability to reconfigure the capabilities of the vehicle,’ Byers stated. ‘They also like the flexibility of a two level gunport,’ he added.

The SandCat TPV’s compact design, combined with an 18-inch vertical step capability and 42-foot curb-to-curb turning circle, enables mobility in tight urban settings and rugged rural landscapes. The vehicle is built on the proven Ford F550 chassis that Byers said gives potential users a level of confidence in the design.

Oshkosh sees South America, and Brazil in particular, as a major export opportunity. ‘Everyone has heard about the rapid development of the BRIC countries,’ Byers said, ‘and the economies in this region are growing. Oshkosh is very excited about the potential of working locally with clients here.’