Zetor Engineering unveils prototype of Gerlach 4x4 armored at IDEB 2018.

Czech Company Zetor engineering unveils a prototype of its new 4x4 armoured vehicle called GERLACH during the defense exhibition IDEB 2018 that takes place in Bratislava, Slovakia. The vehicle was full developed by the Company based on the experience of troops deployed during modern combat operations in Iraq and Afghanistan using similar wheeled armored vehicles.

The new Gerlach 4x4 armoured vehicle designed by the Czech Company Zetor Engineering (Picture source Zetor Engineering)

The concept of the vehicle was launched by the Czech Company Zetor Enginnering two years ago in close collaboration with its subsidiary ZETOR Engineering Slovakia to response to new request for the Slovak armed forces to acquire a new 4x4 armoured vehicle. Currently, Slovak army uses RG-32M from BAE Systems, Aligator produced in Slovakia and old Soviet-made BRDM-2.

The layout of the Gerlach is standard for a modern wheeled armoured vehicle with the engine at the front, crew and troop’s compartment and a cargo area at the rear. The vehicle is based on a modular armour concept and can be configured to accommodate from 4 to 6 military personnel. The crew and troops enter and exit the vehicle through four doors located on either sides of the hull.

The cabin of the Gerlach provides standard ballistic protection Level 1 STANAG 4569 against firing of small arms 7.62×51 mm caliber but can be fitted with additional armour up to Level 3 providing protection against ballistic threats of small arms 7.62×51 mm armour-piercing ammunition. For its mine protection, it has a double floor with anti-mine "V" shield offering high level of protection against mines and IEDs (Improvised Explosive Device) blast, up to Level 2a in standard configuration and to Level 3a/3b in option.

The roof of the troop’s compartment can be fitted with different types of weapon systems such as a simple single mount for a light machine gun or remote weapon station armed with machine gun up to 12.7mm caliber.

The Gerlach 4x4 armored is motorized with a Diesel engine developing 326 hp. coupled to a 6 speed automatic transmission. It can run at a maximum road speed of 110 km/h with a maximum cruising range of 800 km. The vehicle has a length of 5.65 m, width of 2.5 m and a height of 2.5 m. It has a payload carrying capacity o 1.5 t.

According to customer requirements, the Gerlach can be equipped with many optional equipment including CBRN (Chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear) protection system, radios, Central tire inflation system (CTIS) and more.