Deftech AV-4 (photo : KLSReview)
Development
Development of the DEFTECH AV4 (4 × 4) light armoured vehicle commenced in early 2005 by DRB-HICOM Defence as a private venture for the home and potential export markets.AV4 ran for the first time in February 2006 before making its first official appearance at the Defence Services Asia 2006 Exhibition held in Malaysia. This is the first armoured fighting vehicle to be designed and built in Malaysia and is very similar to the Belgian Sabiex International Iguana (4 × 4) vehicle which is based on the German Mercedes-Benz automotive components. Full details of this vehicle are given in a separate entry.The Malaysian vehicle is however a little larger, has increased payload and is in right-hand-drive configuration. The Belgian Sabiex International Iguana is in left-hand-drive configuration.DRB-HICOM Defence Technologies have extensive experience in the assembly and manufacture of wheeled military tactical vehicles. More recently the company have been involved in the assembly some of Turkish FNSS Savunma Sistemleri Systems Armoured Combat Vehicle (ACV) tracked infantry fighting vehicles (IFV) and variants supplied to Malaysia. The Royal Malaysian Police have placed a contract with DEFTECH covering the supply of two production AV4 (4 x 4) light armoured vehicles that will be optimised for the police role.
AV-4 4x4 light armoured vehicle (photo : Militaryphotos) Description
The monocoque hull of the AV4 is of all-welded steel armour construction that provides the occupants with protection from 7.62 × 51 mm ball small arms fire and shell splinters.The underside of the hull has been specifically designed to provide a high level of protection against mines. Appliqué armour can be fitted to provide a higher level of protection. Bullet/splinter proof windows are fitted as standard for all-round situational awareness.To reduce procurement and operating costs, the AV4 uses proven commercial automotive components wherever possible.The diesel power pack is located front left with the drivers compartment to the right. The driver is provided with bulletproof windows to his front and sides and a single piece hatch cover above his position but he can also enter his position via the troop compartment.The commanders position is typically to the rear of the drivers compartment. The commander normally has a raised cupola for all-round observation which is fitted with a single-piece hatch cover that opens to the rear. On the forward part of the hatch is typically a pintle-mounted 7.62 mm machine gun.The troop compartment is towards the rear and crew is provided with a ramp in the rear that incorporates an emergency escape hatch. There are typically at least two roof hatches.In the prototype these are in the rear part of the roof and open outwards. There are three bulletproof windows in the left side and four in the right side. The power pack of the AV4 consists of a proven MTU.
(Jane’s)
Malaysia Makes Its Own APC
24 April 2006
PETALING JAYA- It took several years and billions of ringgit but the Malaysian defence industry can finally be proud. Local heavyweights DRB-Hicom Defence Technology Sdn Bhd (Deftech) will launch the first Malaysian-made light armoured vehicle today, to coincide with the opening of the Defence Services Asia exhibition 2006.
The vehicle is the pride of Deftech, which thus far has only assembled and manufactured military vehicles under licence from foreign companies.
The four-wheeled Deftech AV4 is an all-wheel-drive light armoured vehicle capable of carrying up to eight people or a payload of two tonnes.
The vehicle is capable of withstanding small arms fire, making it suitable for peacekeeping missions. Its underside is protected, ensuring the safety of those travelling in it.
(">NST)
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