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Flyer 72 HD Tactical Mobility Vehicle for US and European Special Forces at AUSA 2024.
The Flyer 72-HD tactical mobility vehicle was unveiled at AUSA 2024, a significant defense exhibition in Washington D.C., marking an important development in the design of light vehicles for special forces and modern military operations. Developed by the American company Flyer Defense, this vehicle is engineered to meet the demanding requirements of operational environments while offering unmatched logistical flexibility. Selected by the United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) for the Ground Mobility 1.1 (GMV 1.1) program, the Flyer 72-HD exemplifies Flyer Defense’s expertise in tactical ground mobility.
In terms of protection and weaponry, the Flyer 72-HD can be equipped with various systems, including a 12.7 mm machine gun or an automatic cannon of up to 30 mm (Picture source: Army Recognition)
With a width of 72 inches (183 cm), the Flyer 72-HD is specifically designed to be transported internally in aircraft such as the CH-47, CH-53, and C-130, allowing for quick and efficient deployment in remote or hostile areas. It can carry up to nine personnel, and its payload capacity reaches 2,585 kg, providing greater flexibility for mission-specific equipment and weaponry. The vehicle is also designed to be operational in less than a minute after leaving the aircraft, with the ability to be quickly armed for immediate operations.
The Flyer 72-HD is powered by a 2.0-liter bi-turbo diesel engine with direct injection, generating 220 horsepower and 450 Nm of torque. Paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, this engine ensures optimal responsiveness across difficult terrains. The vehicle can reach a top speed of 153 km/h and offers a range of up to 805 km in optimal conditions, making it a valuable asset for missions requiring speed and endurance.
In terms of protection and weaponry, the Flyer 72-HD can be equipped with various systems, including a 12.7 mm machine gun or an automatic cannon of up to 30 mm. It can also integrate the Kongsberg CROWS II system, armed with a .50 caliber machine gun and Javelin anti-tank missile launchers. This adaptability enables the Flyer 72-HD to fulfill a variety of mission roles, whether in reconnaissance, combat support, or logistics.
Another key feature of the Flyer 72-HD is its ability to operate in diverse terrains. It is built to tackle inclines of up to 60% and can handle side slopes of 40%, with the capacity to ford water up to 76 cm deep without preparation. This flexibility makes it a preferred choice for military operations in extreme environments, offering superior off-road mobility.
The vehicle's appeal extends beyond the United States, thanks to a strategic partnership between Flyer Defense and Tekne, an Italian company specializing in defense solutions. This collaboration aims to locally produce the Flyer 72-HD for the Italian armed forces and other NATO allies. The partnership is designed to strengthen Italy’s defense capabilities while ensuring fast delivery and long-term support through local production. It reflects a growing trend of collaboration within the defense sector, as NATO countries seek to enhance their interoperability and operational readiness.
The Flyer 72-HD’s expanding presence in the international market demonstrates its effectiveness and versatility as a tactical mobility vehicle. By combining American design with local production in Italy, this vehicle plays a key role in the modernization strategies of various armed forces. In both the United States and Europe, the Flyer 72-HD continues to prove its potential in a wide range of military operations, further establishing Flyer Defense as a leader in tactical mobility solutions.