DSA 2024: Deftech Introduces Life Extension Program for ACV-300 Adnan with Spy Ball Optic.

At the Defense Services Asia (DSA) 2024 in Malaysia, a new version of the ACV-300 Adnan equipped with the Spy Ball optical unit was unveiled as part of the Life Extension Program (LEP). This infantry combat vehicle (ICV) is central to operations in the Malaysian army. The ACV-300 is co-developed by Turkish company FNSS and DefTech, and is based on the ACV-15, an amphibious armored combat vehicle. Malaysia originally ordered 267 units of the ACV-15 in various configurations starting in 2000, all of which have since been delivered, solidifying the vehicle's presence on the field.

The ACV-300 was co-developed by Turkish company FNSS and DefTech of Malaysia at DSA 2024 (Picture source: Army Recognition )

The ACV-300 is powered by a 300-horsepower Detroit Diesel 6V53T engine, achieving notable performance with a maximum road speed of 65 km/h forward and 11 km/h in reverse. It has a fuel capacity of 416 liters, providing significant range and mobility on the battlefield. Its filtered transmission system ensures optimal operation in diverse environments.

In terms of protection, the current ACV-300 withstands 14.5 mm caliber armor-piercing rounds. However, enhancement options are available, including additional armor kits and internal spall liners, increasing protection against 30 mm caliber rounds and rocket-propelled grenades like the RPG-7 equipped with anti-armor explosive-shaped charges.

A key feature of the ACV-300 is its Sharpshooter turret, designed for a single operator and equipped with a 25 mm automatic cannon. This stabilized turret allows for the installation of various weapons systems, including a 25 mm M242 Bushmaster cannon, a 40 mm grenade launcher, or a 12.7 mm machine gun, along with a coaxial 7.62 mm machine gun. Featuring a day/night aiming system for the gunner, which includes a thermal imager and a laser rangefinder, the turret supports firing on the move due to its electric drive system.

A collaboration between DefTech and Thales successfully integrated the Spy Ball optronic payload into the ACV-300 ICV. This initiative is part of the Life Extension Program (LEP).

The Spy Ball features a suite of high-definition, multi-spectral sensors for intelligence and surveillance missions in various operational environments. With its advanced image processing algorithms borrowed from the Rafale reconnaissance pod, it ensures optimized image acquisition and processing, crucial for tactical operations.

Equipped with an uncooled infrared thermal camera and a high-definition day camera, the Spy Ball provides comprehensive coverage day and night, with continuous optical zoom for precise long-range target identification. Its integrated laser allows for target designation up to 2 kilometers, enhancing the vehicle’s target designation capabilities.

The Spy Ball XR (Extended Ranges) variant further extends operational capabilities, with day and infrared channels allowing target detection up to 7 kilometers. This version offers increased discretion in the field due to its range from sensitive areas.

Moreover, the Spy Ball IRT and IRZ variants add functionalities for specific missions. The IRT incorporates a laser rangefinder for precise target geolocation, while the IRZ offers continuous optical zoom for long-range identification, capable of detecting NATO tanks up to 3 kilometers.

In summary, the integration of the Spy Ball optronic payload into the ACV-300 vehicle enhances the Malaysian army's reconnaissance and surveillance capabilities, providing a significant tactical advantage on the battlefield. With its advanced performance and operational versatility, the Spy Ball contributes to the security and effectiveness of military operations.