The BvS 10 is an All Terrain Armoured Vehicle produced by BAE Systems Hagglunds of Sweden. This vehicle, referred to as Viking by the UK forces, was originally developed as a collaboration between industry - Hagglunds Vehicle AB - and the UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) on behalf of the Royal Marines.
Comparison with Bv 206 and Bv206S vehicles
The BvS 10, not to be confused with the Bv 206 or Bv 206S, is a much larger and fully amphibious armoured vehicle based upon the characteristic twin-cab, articulated steering system typical of Hagglunds all terrain vehicles. The main differences with the older Bv206s is a more powerful Cummins 5.9L diesel engine, improved ground clearance and newly developed chassis, power train and steering units that give the vehicle considerably enhanced speed and comfort on road and in terrain, as well as greater load carrying capability (up to 5 tons), and the ability to add various modular sub-systems such as add-on armour, weapon mounts, a load-changer and cargo platforms.
Royal Marines
Originally designed for the British Royal Marines and named Viking, the vehicle underwent an extensive trials and development programme from 2001-2004, led by Major Jez Hermer MBE RM, before the Royal Marines accepted 108 vehicles into service, with delivery commencing in 2005. The Royal Marines Armoured Support Company took the vehicle on operations for the first time in Afghanistan in September 2006, prior to the Royal Marines Armoured Support Group being formed in December 2007.
UK Variants
The UK currently operates three variants of the vehicle: The Troop Carrying Variant (TCV) capable of carrying 2 crew plus 10 passengers; the Command Variant (CV), which carries 2 crew plus up to 8 passengers with the rear cab being designed as an enhanced digital communications platform and the Repair and Recovery Variant (RRV), carrying 4 specialist maintenance vehicle mechanic crewmen. The rear cab of the RRV carries a HIAB crane, a full mobile workshop, an air compressor and a 9 tonne capacity CAPSTAN winch, together with hydraulic anchors. All three variants are fully air-portable under a CH-47 Chinook helicopter, either complete or in two separate front and rear component parts and are also fully amphibious; being capable of swimming in varying sea-states with a full load of passengers and stores.
UK Deployments
Some 33 British Vikings were deployed to Afghanistan at the end of summer 2006 when the Royal Marines relieved the Parachute Regiment in Helmand province. They have been fitted with slat armour, and already their ability to move over rugged terrain at speed is proving invaluable. Another advantage is that the their ground pressure is so low it is not enough to trigger most of the anti-tank mines in Afghanistan.
UK Follow-On Orders
In May 2007, the MoD placed an order with BAE Hagglunds for a further 21 units, some of which are to be used as an equipment transporter for the new Watchkeeper Unmanned aerial vehicle.
Additionally on 26 June 2008 the British Ministry of Defence announced the purchase of an additional 14 Viking BvS 10 vehicles at a cost of £14 million.
Netherlands Marine Corps
The BvS 10 has also been ordered for the Netherlands Marine Corps, 74 units are to be delivered.
Dutch Deployments
On March 27 the Dutch Parliament decided in favour of sending a 60 men strong Marine reconnaissance unit to Chad in support of the EUFOR peacekeeping mission in the region. The marines will function as the eyes and ears of an Irish battalion. This will be the first operational deployment of the BvS 10 Viking in Dutch service after exercises in Norway and the UK.
External links
- Manufacturer's website
- Video British Bv S10s part of ISAF convoy in southern Afghanistan (source: British Ministry of Defence).
