Viper 4x4 MRAP offers STANAG level 3A &3B and STANAG level 4 protection. Image courtesy of Mobile Land Systems.

The Viper 4x4 vehicle is capable of operating on harsh rocky and sandy terrains. Image courtesy of Mobile Land Systems.

Viper 4x4 MRAP can accommodate two crew and eight troops. Image courtesy of Mobile Land Systems.

Viper 4×4 mine-resistant ambush protected (MRAP) armoured personnel carrier (APC) is designed and manufactured by Mobile Land Systems, a developer of military and commercial vehicle products and technologies based in the UAE.

The Viper was displayed for the first time at the IDEX International Defence Exhibition & Conference 2019 held in Abu Dhabi, UAE.

The vehicle underwent a series of tests during the UAE Armed Forces Summer Trials 2018, which was conducted by the General Maintenance Corps. The tests demonstrated Viper’s ability to traverse through different terrains at a distance of 1,500km.

The armoured fighting vehicle (AFV) variant of the vehicle is based on 6×6 wheeled chassis.

Viper 4×4 MRAP mission capabilities

Viper’s open and modular architecture allows for the integration of various mission-specific add-ons based on the customer requirements.

The vehicle can be used as a troop or personnel transportation vehicle, a firepower support vehicle, a military ambulance, and a mobile command and control station.

Viper 4×4 MRAP design and features

Viper 4×4MRAP vehicle features V-shaped monocoque hull made using all-welded steel armour. The hull is mounted on a strong four-wheeled chassis.

The overall height of the vehicle is 2.63m Its length and widths are 6.3m and 2.47m respectively, while its gross weight is 18t.

The vehicle can accommodate a total of ten personnel, including two crew and eight troops, and offers sufficient leg room. It features two doors each in the front and rear.

Both the crew and troop compartments are equipped with dual air conditioning system to create comfortable working condition. The bullet-proof windows on both compartments offer a 360° view.

The crew and troop seats are equipped with blast mitigation technology to provide advancedprotection by mitigating the effects of explosive devices.

The cabin cooling system is designed to work efficiently in harsh temperatures of up to 60^°C.

Viper’s lightweight, shorter wheelbase, and independent suspension system create greater ground clearance and offer enhanced stability.

The vehicle also features a programmable central tire inflation system (CTIS), which offers improved driving performance on different terrain types.

Armament and self-protection

Viper’s cabin can be fitted with a 1.2tturret without roof deflection or accuracy losses. The turret can be armed with different types of weapon systems according to the mission requirement.

The 4×4 vehicle incorporates STANAG level 3A &3B and STANAG level 4 protection features to safeguard the occupants from blast and ballistic aggressions. It provides 360^o high-standard protection from mine blasts.

The vehicle can be optionally provided with chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) filtration system, fire detection, and fire suppression systems to further improve the crew survivability.

Viper 4×4 MRAP engine and performance

Power is provided by an 8.9l turbo diesel engine that is coupled to a six-speed automatic transmission system. The engine develops an output power of 450hp at 2,100rpm, while its load bearing torque is 1,627Nm at 1,100-1,400rpm.

The engine room is located in the front of the crew cabin with protected side doors. It is installed with a cooling system to ensure efficient engine performance. The electrical needs of the vehicle are met by a large alternator, which is coupled to the engine.

Stability and control are ensured by a dual-circuit brake system, which is designed in compliance with the ECE-R13 braking regulation. Its effective independent suspension improves traction and stability of the chassis by reducing shock load.

The Viper is suitable in harsh off-road conditions such as highways, soft sand tracks, rocky terrains, and sand dunes.