BAE Systems introduces Caiman Multi-Theater Vehicle

From 2007 to 2008, BAE Systems built more than 2,800 Caiman MRAP vehicles for Iraq. Now BAE Systems is offering the U.S. military a cost-effective solution to transition armored vehicles originally built for Iraq to operate effectively in Afghanistan.

BAE Systems’ new version of the combat-proven Caiman MRAP, called the Caiman Multi-Theater Vehicle (Caiman MTV), was designed for multiple theaters of operation. The Caiman MTV is a highly mobile armored vehicle that can be used for medical evacuation, command and control or troop transport at a level currently unmet in Afghanistan.

The new Caiman configuration can be delivered either as a new vehicle or chassis upgrade to an existing capsule. According to BAE, the Caiman MTV is ideal for the Afghan theater because it features:

· The most useable interior volume under armor than any fielded MRAP

· A scaled-up independent suspension system to handle extreme off-road environments

· A 5-ton HVAC temperature control system that protects soldiers and critical computer equipment from hot and cold extremes

· An enhanced monolithic floor, blast-absorbing seats, and the latest fire-suppression systems to enhance soldier survivability

Demonstrations and events:

•BAE Systems first demonstrated the vehicle to Army leaders on January 26 at Michigan Proving Grounds.

•The vehicle’s second demonstration occurred February 10 during the Nevada Automotive Test Center (NATC) Vehicle Systems Demonstration Technology Rodeo in Carson City, Nevada.

•The vehicle will be on display at the Association of U.S. Army’s Winter Symposium in Fort Lauderdale, Florida February 24-26, 2010 at booth #2521.

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