Patria Demonstrates New FAMOUS All-Terrain Tracked Vehicle Maneuvering in Snowy Finnish Forests.

On June 28, 2024, a video released on social media showcased for the first time the new FAMOUS (Future Highly Mobile Augmented Armoured Systems) ATV, an all-terrain tracked vehicle developed by the Finnish company Patria. The video, captured in the snowy forests of Finland, highlighted the vehicle's maneuvers and a new camouflage distinct from the one presented at Eurosatory 2024 in Paris. Notably, the absence of the Kongsberg Protector RS6 remote-operated turret equipped with a 30mm machine gun produced by KNDS was observed.
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Patria FAMOUS All-Terrain Tracked Vehicle (Picture source: Social Network)

The FAMOUS ATV, distinct from Patria's Beowulf, features a unique, elongated structure measuring approximately nine meters in length. Unlike the BvS10 Beowulf, which uses articulated parts to navigate sharp turns, the FAMOUS ATV is designed to push through obstacles. This capability was emphasized by Simo Saukko, the vehicle’s research and development manager. Patria plans to have a prototype ready for testing by the end of 2024.

After receiving feedback, the vehicle will be refined over the next few years, leading to a second prototype armed with a Kongsberg Protector RS6 remote weapon station for live fire trials in Finland. The completion of the FAMOUS program is planned between 2026 and 2027, aiming to replace aging tracked vehicles such as the MT-LB, M113, M548, and Saurer 4K 4FA.

Juha Lahteenmaki, the director of the vehicle's technology portfolio, explained that the engine's central positioning behind the drivers and the front transmission configuration adjust the center of gravity, making the vehicle behave like a boat. This setup enhances its ability to traverse snow in Arctic conditions. The initial version of the FAMOUS vehicle will serve as a personnel carrier, accommodating ten soldiers, based on Patria’s 6x6 armored personnel carrier. Future adaptations could include roles as an ambulance, command-and-control center, or mortar carrier.

The FAMOUS ATV concept, weighing 15 tons with a payload capacity of 3.5 tons, can accommodate a crew of two and transport ten soldiers. Powered by a 250 kW engine, it reaches speeds up to 80 km/h and has an operational range of 600 km. It is designed to operate in extreme temperatures ranging from -46°C to +44°C and complies with STANAG K1 and M1 protection standards for light armored personnel carriers (APC). The vehicle also has amphibious capabilities, allowing water operations at speeds of 4 km/h with a fording depth of two meters.

Part of the European Defence Industrial Development Programme (EDIDP), the EDF FAMOUS 2 project, currently in its implementation phase from 2022 to 2026, focuses on the development, prototyping, and verification testing of next-generation armored vehicles to improve ground combat capabilities. Finland, with Patria as the industrial coordinator, leads the program, responsible for design, system integration, and prototype manufacturing. Funded by 95 million euros from the EU, with an additional 19 million euros co-funded by member states, the project involves a consortium of nine countries and 35 companies.

Coordinated by Patria, this consortium includes major defense companies from across the European Union, such as KNDS, John Cockerill, Indra, Diehl Defence, Arquus, and Millog. At the Eurosatory exhibition, the concept featured a remote-controlled weapon station with a mount from Kongsberg, a weapon from KNDS, and optics from Escribano. While details about the vehicle's tracks, essential for movement through snow and water obstacles, were not disclosed at Eurosatory 2024, they can now be observed.

Key focus areas of the FAMOUS program include enhancing the tactical and operational mobility of vehicles in diverse environments, such as urban, Arctic, and mountainous terrains. The development of hybrid operation systems aims to ensure efficient performance in various conditions. Additionally, the program emphasizes power generation and energy storage to support extended operational durations. Advanced situational awareness systems, cybersecurity measures, and comprehensive C4I (Command, Control, Communications, Computers, and Intelligence) solutions are essential for improving military personnel's situational awareness and secure communications.

The integration of robotics and autonomous systems is another significant aspect, aimed at reducing risks to human personnel and increasing operational efficiency. The development of modern weapon systems and comprehensive life cycle support solutions is also a priority to ensure the long-term effectiveness of these advanced armored vehicles.

The unveiling of the FAMOUS ATV marks a significant milestone in armored vehicle technology, promising enhanced mobility, protection, and operational efficiency for future military operations.

Patria FAMOUS All-Terrain Tracked Vehicle (Picture source: Army Recognition)