The US Military has put into service a new vehicle called MRAP's (Mine Resistant Ambush Protected). The goal of these new trucks is to cut down on casualties brought on by IED's or other homemade bombs. The Humvees even the up armored one's just aren't providing enough protection for our fighting men and women.
At a cost of over $500,000.00 a piece they will provide troops in battle with a new tool to help combat IED and ambush's with its V-shaped hull that will disperse the bomb blast ergo saving more lives. They are also going to be able fight back with various weapons systems being installed.
Weighing slightly over 26 tons. They are powered by a big 330 HP Cat diesel engine and are 6x6 wheeled vehicles. The transport variant will carry at least 10 fully equipped soldiers and have a crew of two. From what I am reading there are going to be different variants for the multi purposes that the military has, and I am sure the common solider in the field will find other uses for them as well. With a top speed of 65 MPH, they can get in and out of trouble in a hurry and have an operational range of close to 600 miles
These new vehicles are being sent to Afghanistan and Iraq continuously, but I say may them a priority and get as many as possible where the are needed the most, to protect the most precious cargo of them all...the solider.
--gfo
photo courtesy of Reuters
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