BAE Systems has once again demonstrated its commitment to pushing the boundaries of military technology by presenting the manoeuvre short-range air defense (M-SHORAD) variant of the versatile BvS-10 armoured all-terrain vehicle (ATV) at the Defence and Security Equipment International (DSEI) 2023 event in London. This development signifies a significant transformation for the BvS10, evolving from an armoured personnel carrier into a modular fighting vehicle designed to tackle a wide spectrum of modern operational threats. The BvS-10’s adaptability is a key feature, as it can be equipped with a range of armaments including cannons, machine guns, folding fin aircraft rockets (FFARs), mortars, light artillery, surface-to-air missiles, and the associated sensors and command-and-control systems required to operate them effectively. Over the years, the baseline BvS-10 has undergone upgrades to enhance its protection against mines, small arms fire, shrapnel, and improvised explosive devices, making it a robust choice for contemporary military operations.
At DSEI 2023, the M-SHORAD variant of the BvS-10 was on display with an array of advanced equipment. The cabin featured an Escribano Guardian 2.0 remote controlled weapon station (ROWS) armed with a 7.62 mm Gatling gun. It also boasted day and night cameras with impressive detection ranges of 15 km and 9 km, respectively, along with a laser rangefinder capable of reaching targets up to 15 km away. The rear unit of the BvS-10 showcased the Moog Space and Defense Group Flexible MissionPlatform, housing a sensor package in the middle. Additionally, it featured an RBS70 surface-to-air missile system and a pod-four Fletcher Defense Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS), designed to counter Class 2 unmanned aircraft systems. Surrounding this setup were four Teledyne radar antennas, providing comprehensive 360-degree coverage. Importantly, the operator remained seated under protection in the rear cabin, ensuring their safety in combat situations.
The BvS-10, also known as the Bandvagn Skyddad 10, is a tracked, articulated, amphibious all-terrain armoured vehicle produced by BAE Systems Land Systems Hägglunds of Sweden. Originally developed as a collaborative effort between Hägglunds Vehicle AB and the British Ministry of Defence for the Royal Marines, this vehicle has gained widespread recognition under various names, including the All Terrain Vehicle (protected) – ATV(P) and Viking in the UK. Presently, it serves Austria, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Sweden, and the UK. In 2019, Sweden began fielding the Eldenhet 98 surface-to-air missile mounted on the BvS10 platform. Furthermore, the recent announcement of licensed production in India has expanded its global presence. In addition to its European presence, the US Army has ordered an unprotected version, the Beowulf, to replace its existing Bv 206 ATVs. The Bv 206 has also been manufactured under license in the Republic of Korea.
One of the standout features of the BvS-10 is its mobility, low signature, and NATO STANAG 4569 Level II protection, which can be further bolstered with the addition of active protection, slat, and net armor. The unique twin-cab configuration of the ATV significantly improves crew survivability, as one crew member can potentially survive even if the other is hit. However, it’s worth noting that adding certain protective features might compromise the vehicle’s amphibious capabilities due to increased weight. BAE Systems’ unveiling of the M-SHORAD variant of the BvS-10 further reinforces its position as a leading innovator in the defense industry, offering cutting-edge solutions to meet the evolving demands of modern warfare. The M-SHORAD variant’s adaptability and advanced weaponry make it a formidable asset for any military seeking to address a wide range of operational threats on the battlefield.
