Mastiff

Mastiff is a heavily armoured, 6 x six-wheel-drive patrol vehicle which carries eight troops, plus two crew. It is currently on its third variation.

It is suitable for road patrols and convoys and is the newest in a range of protected patrol vehicles being used for operations.

Mastiff has a maximum speed of 90kph, is armed with the latest weapon systems, including a 7.62mm general purpose machine gun, 12.7mm heavy machine gun or 40mm automatic grenade launcher.

These wheeled patrol vehicles have a less intimidating profile than tracked vehicles and give commanders on the ground in Afghanistan more options to deal with the threats they are facing.

They have Bowman radios and electronic countermeasures and are fitted with additional armour beyond the standard level to ensure they have the best possible protection.

Improvements on the Mastiff include:

• Bigger axles and up-rated suspension
• Increased electrical power from the alternator 400A vs 200A
• Increased crew capacity 2 + 8 as opposed to 2 + 6
• Increased CES/stowage locations
• Blast attenuating seats
• Fold up seats allowing easier stowage if the vehicle is not full of crew
• New situational awareness system incorporating a thermal imager for the driver

The vehicles are based on the US Cougar made by Force Protection, with UK integration work carried out by NP Aerospace, in Coventry.