At the defense exhibition Eurosatory 2010, Benoni-based BAE Systems South Africa unveiled a new 8x8 wheeled armoured combat vehicle, the RG41. The RG41 is designed to offer an affordable and highly mobile combat vehicle for modern warfare. RG41 is a new generation combat vehicle, that meets demanding mobility, protection and firepower requirements, with the emphasis on combat power. The RG41 project started in 2008 “to meet the ever-increasing demand for mine protected vehicles in the modern combat environment. The company, in product notes, say the 8x8 is a development of previous Land Systems OMC prototypes and “benefits from many years of development experience.” Officials add designers had no specific customer in mind for the company-funded development. A launch customer is still being sought. “The design uses RG series technology which has been combat proven around the world in numerous different environments.” The RG41 has a high payload capacity, a classleading turning circle, good power-to-weight ratio and a unique hull design. RG41 is designed as an affordable and highlymobile, wheeled combat vehicle, suitable for modern warfare.
Variants
RG41 variants include an infantry section vehicle, a command vehicle, an ambulance, recovery vehicle and engineer vehicle.
The RG41 can be equipped with a number of conventional or overhead turrets as well as defensive aids suites. A 25mm Alliant Techsystems M242 Bushmaster can be fitted to the section vehicle and the commander is served with 360 degree video vision system.
Design and protection
Protection levels of RG41 depend on the user requirement, but is field upgradeable. A full-length semi v-shaped hull is standard, however. An engine bay and crew compartment fire suppression system is also aboard. The RG41 boasts 14.9 cubic metres of usable cabin space. The section vehicle allows for a gunner and section commander in the turret and seven troops in a hull compartment. The driver is located “very far forward for excellent vision with a space for a vehicle commander behind the driver to take control when the section leader and section debus. A larger section can be carried if the vehicle is fitted with a remote weapon system (remotely controlled overhead weapon station).
Mobility
The RG41 is equipped with 8x8 wheeled chassis. The RG41 is motorized with a Deutz engine engine model 2015TCD V6 coupled to a transmission ZF5HP902 5 speed with integral 2 speed drop-down. The RG41 can run at a maximum speed of 100 km/hr. The RG41 uses an independent suspension “offering excellent ride comfort” in the form of a double wishbone system with hydraulic shock absorbers. The 16.00R20 Michelin XZL tyres reduces ground pressure and provides excellent off-road speed and obstacle
Accessories
The RG41 is fitted with 11 seats, each with safety belt four point harness. The wheel heads feature an integrated central tyre inflation system. Run-flat inserts give 100km range at 50 km/h.