Among the vehicles displayed by Mercedes-Benz at Erzberg iron mine (Austria) at the opportunity of the unveiling of its new G-Class and Zetros 4x4 truck, Sisu demonstrated its GTP 4x4 armored modular vehicle intended for military and security forces. The two-man crew needed 20 hours from Finland to reach Erzberg.
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Sisu GTP 4x4 at Erzberg iron mine, Austria, on September 29, 2021 (Picture source: Army Recognition)
Sisu GTP covers a wide spectrum of operational roles, as Jyri Ahonen, Vice President of Siu Export, explained to Army Recognition. The versatility of the vehicle is based on a highly modular structure, which enables numerous variants for different operational uses, all using the same backbone structure. For example, the General Purpose body for 2+2 or 2+3 crew, and the APC body for 2+8 crew are interchangeable quickly even in field conditions. The feature applies naturally to all other body configurations, too. Interchangeable components and vehicle's easy maintainability are important factors also for the Life Cycle Support economy.
Sisu GTP 4x4 at Erzberg iron mine, Austria, on September 29, 2021 (Picture source: Army Recognition)
Sisu backbone platform forms the robust base for the GTP. Proven vehicle technology is integrated into the structure. Regarding the reliability and capabilities, suffice to say the vehicle use Mercedes-Benz Unimog components. The 6-cylinder diesel engine combined with automatic transmission provides great performance and smooth operation in the toughest conditions. The vehicle is equipped with independent susênsion and differential lock in each axle. The vehicle can be equipped with a winch, traction chains and central tire inflation system.
GTP’s top speed is more than 100 km/h. Its range can overtake 700 km. The angles of approach and departure are 45°. The stability tilt (side slope) is an amazing 37°, and the slope angle the vehicle can climb is 60 percent, a performance we experienced while driving the vehicle on the off-road terrain managed at Erzberg mine. The fording depth is 1,200 mm. To enable the driver to move on obstacles the bonnet prevents him to see, for example, the 360° camera system with its screen (the size of a large smartphone) located beside the steering wheel offers a constant view of the vehicle like from some 10-meter altitude. So, as we experiences while climbing some obstacles without direct visibility on the forward terrain, we just needed to steer while observing the screen to be sure the front wheels were properly oriented and, hence, the vehicle moved properly on the narrow track.
Switching on differential locks before climbing a 60 percent slope with the Sisu GTP 4x4. Above the switches: the screen of the 360° camera system (Picture source: Army Recognition)
Different crew bodies and optional superstructures are easily interchangeable. The sound insulation is pleasantly high, as we experienced, an asset namely during long hours of driving.
Regarding the protection level, CBRN is optional but the standard vehicle matches the STANAG 4569 standard for ballistic and mine blast protection. Add-on kits are available for EFP/RPG protection.
The 360° camera system screen showing the vehicle from above is located on the right of the dashboard (Picture source: Army Recognition)
Sisu GTP 4x4 technical data
