Saxon APC, UK

Simba APC

The Simba has many automotive features in common with the Saxon APC (see previous entry) but was designed for what are described as light combat vehicle or low profile internal security (IS) roles. Developed by GKN Defence as a private venture with a view to local manufacture in less developed countries, the basic 4 x 4 Simba can be readily configured to suit many military and para-military functions, from an APC to a fire support vehicle mounting a 90 mm gun in a turret; the latter has been trialled.

To date the most important Simba model has been that selected by the Armed Forces of the Philippines who have ordered 150 units, most for local assembly using, at first, knock-down kits supplied by GKN, These vehicles, most of which are general purpose APCs likely to be operated in IS situations, have an armoured steel hull surmounted by a 12.7 mm MG in a one man turret; single or twin 7.62 mm MGs are options. Troops enter and leave the vehicle via a single large door in the hull rear; the driver has his own roof hatch and is protected by bullet-proof screens, Up to ten troops can be carried but a more comfortable load is eight; a fully dedicated APC could seat up to 12 troops. The hull can be converted to carry a turntablemounted 81 mm mortar firing through open roof hatches, while a TOW or HOT ATGW launcher turret could be located on the roof.

An IFV variant with a 20 or 25 mm turret has also been proposed. However, the most likely Simba variant is an IS vehicle fitted with a barricade removal device, a turret-mounted anti-riot agent projectors, a riot agent filtration system for the vehicle occupants, side-mounted riot screens, and loudspeakers.

Optional ecfuipment for all models includes air conditioning and a winch.

Crew: 2

Seating: up to 10 Weight: (combat) up to 11,200 kg

Length: 5.35 m Width: 2.5m

Height: 2.19m

Ground clearance: 0.33 m

Track: 2.06m Max speed: (road) 100 km/h Fuel capacity: 296 litres Range:660 km

Fording: 1 m Vertical obstacle: 0.45 m

Engine: Perkins 210 Ti diesel Power output: 210 hp Suspension: leaf spring Armament: 1x12.7 mm MG Variants: See text