Wolf Armoured Vehicle
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| Wolf armoured vehicle | |
|---|---|
 The Wolf Armoured Vehicle. |
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| Type | Armoured Vehicle |
| Place of origin | Israel |
| Service history | |
| In service | 2006[1] - Current |
| Used by | Israel Defense Force |
| Production history | |
| Designer | Hatehof |
| Manufacturer | RAFAEL and Hatehof |
| Number built | 150 |
| Specifications | |
| Weight | 8 tonnes |
| Length | 5.75 meters |
| Width | 2.38 meters |
| Height | 2.35 meters |
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| Engine | 6-litre V8 turbo-diesel 325 BHP Diesel |
| Transmission | Five speed automatic |
The Wolf Armoured Vehicle (Hebrew: זאב) (usually shortened to the Wolf) is an armoured transport vehicle, used mainly by the Israeli Defence Force. It was created to provide a better handling, better protected version of the M113 (Bardelas). The Wolf is a heavily armoured crew carrier, manufactured by the Hatehof company. It combines a commercial trucks' speed and maneuverability and APC-like armour, qualities necessary for low-intensity confrontation. The Wolfs' chassis is based on a Ford F-550 truck, and is equipped with a 6-litre V8 engine. The engine is combined with a 5-speed automatic transmission, which drives all four wheels, making this a four-by-four.[2]
Contents |
[edit] Creation
[edit] Concept and Purchase
The idea for the Wolf was born from the need of transporting soldiers safely during missions in an urban environment, and in peacekeeping missions. Recently the Israeli Ministry of Defense ordered 150 Wolf Armored Vehicles from RAFAEL Armament Development Authority Ltd.[3] and an order for Hatehof, for some to be used in urban combat. This is currently in production. The vehicle's first reported use occurred in Israel Defense Force operation "Bringing Home the Goods"[4] on March 14, 2006.
[edit] Build
The Wolf consists of a commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) Ford F-550 chassis so it can be easily maintained anywhere. It is equipped with a diesel, 6 liter 325 HP engine and automatic 5 speed transmission. It can weigh up to 8 tonnes. The automatic systems require no changes when the armor is applied. The armor protects crew compartment, automatic elements and wheels. The armor envelope is built independently from the chassis, so it is possible to use the same armor envelope on another chassis (of the same model) when the chassis goes out for service.[2]
[edit] Design
The vehicle is completely protected, including the wheels—which have run flats. The armour is 3 long tons (3,048 kg), and is not critical to the Wolfs' overall weight, since its maximum load is 8 long tons (8,128 kg). All of the doors of the vehicle are bullet proof, including the engine and gearbox compartments.[2]There are six doors—four on the sides and two at the rear—which enables troops to get in and out easily and quickly with all of their equipment. The vehicle interior is equipped with a double air conditioning system, seats and brackets for items that a soldier might need. Since no major changes have been done to the F-550 chassis, except the addition of armour, the vehicle does not have any problems with engine overheating or handling. The Wolf weighs approximately 8 long tons (8,128 kg), and can carry a crew of up to 12 personnel, with an additional 2 stretch beds, if necessary. The doors are designed for a quick getaway. Most of the original parts were kept, with the only notable changes being, the rear axle and tires.
[edit] References
- ^ http://spiritofentebbe.de/2006/03/14/the-wolfs-debut-on-tv/
- ^ a b c Hatehof Specifications. Hatehof. Retrieved on November 2007.
- ^ Product name. RAFAEL. Retrieved on November 2007.
- ^ http://www.jpost.com/servlet/Satellite?cid=1139395600296&pagename=JPost%2FJPArticle%2FPrinter
