Water Car Engineer
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The Kestrel has a scalable 22.5 ton to 26 ton gross vehicle weight and can carry 10+2 people inside. The design includes a front left engine placement that enables better space utilization. The vehicle has an 8x8 under chassis driveline with a double wishbone type independent hydro pneumatic suspension, with the front two axles being steerable. The Kestrel has a turning radius of 19 metres and the tyres have the run flat capability, with the central tyre inflation system (CTIS) coming as standard.
Unlike many wheeled combat vehicles, the Kestrel is fully amphibious and does not require any preparation before entering water. It is propelled by a rear mounted water jet.
The Kestrel's ballistic protection has been designed to protect the occupants from threat levels ranging from Stanag I to Stanag IV, depending on the application. The monocoque comprises of a welded armour steel hull with applique and inner composite spall liner. The protection modules can be replaced in a short time frame to increase or decrease the protection level. The bottom of the hull is guarded by blast protection up to Stanag III. The seats are designed to reduce the impact of any external force, providing additional protection.
They also have a tracked chassis in advance stages. Both of which will used as their proposal to replace the aging BMP2s.
This latest model has a slight face lift compared to the one shown in the def expo.