GROUND WEAPONS (Armor)

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Alvis Vickers Limited FV.101 Scorpion Light Tank
Type:
Light Tank/Combat Vehicle Reconnaissance, Tracked-Fire Support Vehicle (CVR,T-FSV)
Country of origin:
United Kingdom
Armor:
12.7-25 mm average, aluminum alloy
Crew:
Commander, Gunner, Driver
Air transportability:
roll-on/roll-off C-130
Dimensions
Length:
4.794 m (15.75')
Width:
2.235 m (7.33')
Height:
2.102 m (7.0')
Ground clearance:

Ground pressure:
0.36 kg/cm² (5.12 psi)
Weights and loadings
Combat weight:
8,075 kg (17,765 lb)
Power train
Engine:
[original] One 190 bhp (142 kW), Jaguar J-60 Mk.100B OHC engine, 4.21 liter, 6 cc in-line gasoline, derated to 160 hp at 4,750 rpm; [uprated] One Cummins 6BT 5.9 6cc in-line diesel, 152 hp
Power-to-weight ratio
: 20.2 hp/ton
Transmission:
[original] Semi-automatic, 7-speed in all directions, hotshift type; [uprated] Automatic, 4 speed, 1,600 rpm
Transfer case:
Axles:
Tracks:
Suspension:
Performance
Max land speed:
[road] 80.5 kph (50 mph)
Water speed:
4 kph (2.5 mph)
Acceleration:
0-48 kph (0-30), 16 sec
Range:
650 km (404 mi)
Vertical obstacle:
0.5 m (1.64')
Trench:
2.057 m (6.75')
Max fording depth:
1.07 m (3.51')
Gradient:
60%
Side slope:
30%
Turning radius:
Pivot to infinite
Weapon Systems
Main gun:
L23A1 76 mm/23, rifled gun
Max effective range:
1,000 m (3,280')
Rate of fire:
Elevation:
-10° to +35°
Traverse:
360°
Ammunition:
40 rounds
Ammunition type:
HE, HEAT, HESH, Smoke, Canister
Rangefinder:
Laser
Night gun sight:
White searchlight
Secondary gun:
L3 7.62 mm coax MG
Max effective range:
Rate of fire:
Ammunition:
3,000 rounds
Ammunition type:
Ball
Rangefinder:
None
Night gun sight:
White searchlight
Other defenses:
2 x Four-barrel smoke dischargers, Nightvision equipment
Variants used:
FV.101 Scorpion (FSV), FV.104 Samaritan (Ambulance)
Program:
Designed by Alvis for the British Army, which entered service in 1973 and served until 1994. Its primary function for the British Army was to be a fast, air-transportable reconnaissance vehicle, to be used to scout ahead of the main MBT units. Over 4,000 had been produced in the UK and Belgium by the time production ceased in the mid-90's. The Philippines initially received a total of forty-seven Scorpions through Special Supply Agreement (SSA) with UK. Of those, forty-two were basic configuration of Scorpion fighting vehicles while the remainder were its variants specially designed to perform special role requirements. Out of the ten variants acquired six were Samaritan (Ambulance), and three are Samson (Recovery Vehicles). Of the original forty-seven units only twelve units are serviceable and serves in the PA-LAD. The PA utilizes the Scorpion as a light tank using its weapons in direct fire support to infantry.
Structure: The FV.101 Scorpion is lightly armored, however its all-welded aluminum alloy armor is resistant to machine-gun bullets up to 14.5 caliber, with the side and rear capable of defeating multiple 7.62 caliber hits. Its main gun is the L23, 76 mm cannon, (designed and developed by the Royal Armament and Development Establishment and manufactured by the Royal Ordnance Factories) with 40 rounds that can fire HESH against hostile armor for up to 3,000 meters and HE shells against infantry for up to 5,000 meters. Though HESH shells have lost much of its effectiveness due to the advent of sophisticated armor, its is still effective on the side of tanks, on IFVs, APCs and lightly armored fortifications. A L37 7.62 mm with 3,000 rounds is mounted coaxial with the L23. For additional defense, four electrically-operated smoke/grenade dischargers are mounted on the side of the fully traversing turret. It can employ smoke, illuminating and training rounds. The crew of three (the commander also acts as the loader) wears helmets to provide protection against sharp corners and to use the built-in intercom. The most notable characteristic of the Scorpion is its light weight and its engine making the Scorpion highly mobile and very maneuverable. The Jaguar engine can accelerate from 0 to 48 kph in 16 seconds has a high power-to-weight ratio, fuel capacity is 423 liters. Its gear is semi-automatic, seven-speed in all directions. It has five aluminum road wheels each side with rubber tires with the first and last having hydraulic shock absorbers and has an average life of 4,820 kilometers. Its ground pressure is described as "lighter than a man's" at 5 psi allows the Scorpion to operate in boggy terrain. The Scorpion is designed to operate in temperatures of -30° to +50° Celsius. It is air-transportable and can fit inside a C-130H. The FV.104 Samaritan variant is an armored ambulance, with similar hull construction as the Scorpion but have high sides and no turrets, to give more room inside. The normal crew of three includes two medical personnel and the driver. The vehicle is fitted with an air cooler for the casualty compartment. There is space for four stretcher casualties or four sitting casualties. Entry and exit is facilitated through a rear door.
Modernization: The upgrading of the Scorpion tanks was proposed in 2001, to extend its operational life for another 15 years and improve its capabilities and performance in terms of mobility, firepower and communication, The provisions for maintainability and an increased survival capability will also be pursued as part of the program but was deferred in 2003.
In 2007, the PA top brass, initiated a concept to repower a unit with a 6BT5-9 Cummins Diesel Automatic engine, in place of the old Jaguar gasoline engine, which was getting harder to maintain and expensive to operate. This was made in collaboration with Steelcraft Industries, who made the conversion and installation "at-cost", the unit is still currently under evaluation.
As such, LAD is in the process of researching, fabricating and fitting the necessary parts to perfect the integration of the diesel engine.

Photo at right, PA-LAD's FV.101 Scorpion Light tank, taken from the 1990 Independence day parade at the Luneta, and at left is a FV.104 Samaritan variant. Pictures by opus from timawa.net.

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United Defence/FNSS Savunma Sisternleri A.S. YPR-765 AIFV
Type:
Armored Infantry Fighting Vehicle (AIFV)
Country of origin:
Armor:
Crew:
Commander, Driver, Gunner, RTO + 7 Infantry
Air transportability:
Dimensions
Length:
5.26 m (17.25')
Width:
2.82 m (9.25')
Height:
2.62 m (8.6')
Ground clearance:
Weights and loadings
Basic weight:
11,373 kg (25,020 lb)
Combat weight:
13,687 kg (30,111 lb)
Power train
Engine:
One 264 hp Detroit V-6 Diesel Model 6V-53T, turbocharged, fuel capacity 416 liters
Power-to-weight ratio:
21.92 hp/ton
Transmission:
Allison automatic transmission
Transfer case:
Axles:
Tracks:
Suspension:
Performance
Max land speed:
65 kph (40 mph)
Water speed:
Acceleration:
Range:
490 km (305 mi)
Vertical obstacle:
0.61 m (2')
Trench:
Max fording depth:

Gradient:
60%
Side slope:
30%
Turning radius:
Pivot to infinite
Weapon Systems
Main gun:
Oerlikon KBA 25 mm Bushmaster III in EWS
Max effective range:
Rate of fire:
Ammunition:
Ammunition type:
Rangefinder:
Night gun sight:
Thermal imaging
Secondary gun:
7.62 mm LMG coax
Max effective range:
1,000 m
Rate of fire:
100 rpm
Ammunition:
Ammunition type:
Rangefinder:
Night gun sight:
White searchlight
Other defenses:
Variants used:
AIFV variant, ARV variant
Program:
Designed and produced by United Defence (formerly FMC), is basically an improved version of the M113 APC with an uprated armor and weapon system. It serves with the armored units of the Belgian (514), and Turkish (650) armies. This vehicle is sometimes erroneously called Chaimite by Philippine press, which is another separate type of wheeled armored vehicle. The Philippines received a total of 85 vehicles as per US Library of Congress records of which about 45 units are still in use. The PA received two additional units from FNSS Savunma Sisternleri A.S. of Ankara, Turkey including an Armored Recovery Vehicle (ARV) variant in February 2004, for P55-M. The ARV will serve as a mobile maintenance platform of the LAD in the field or to assist in disaster relief operations. The AIFV are utilized by the PA-LAD and the PSG.
Structure: The AIFV is a tracked, all-terrain, amphibious armored combat vehicle manufactured in Europe. It is armed with an Oerlikon KBA 25 mm gun with a coaxial 7.62 mm machine-gun mounted in an Enclosed Weapon System (EWS), which is electrically-operated and fully stabilized, which provides a shoot-on-the-move capability. The turret drive system also incorporates a day and night thermal imaging system for visibility under the cover of darkness. The 7.62 mm gun is used as anti-aircraft as well as anti-infantry defense. Furthermore, the AIFV has firing ports to allow its passengers to engage hostile units under the protection of its armor.

Two photos of PA-LAD's AIFV, taken from the 1990 Independence day parade at the Luneta. Pictures by opus from timawa.net.

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Food Machinery Corp. M-113A1/A2 APC
Type:
Armored Personnel Carrier, Tracked (APC,T)
Country of origin:
USA
Armor:
38 mm sloped/ 27 mm flat/ 12 mm flat, rolled 5083/5086 H32 aluminum alloy
Crew:
Commander, Driver, Gunner, RTO + 9 Infantry
Air transportability:
roll-on/roll-off C-130
Dimensions
Length:
4.86 m (15.95')
Width, over track shrouds:
2.69 m (8.82')
Height:
2.5 m (8.2')
Tread:
2.16 m (7.08')
Ground clearance:
[A1] 0.41 m (1.34'); [A2] 0.43 m (1.425')
Ground pressure, zero penetration:
[A1] 0.51 kg/cm² (7.3 psi); [A2] 0.55 kg/cm² (7.9 psi)
Weights and loadings
Basic weight:
[A1] 9,426 kg (20,737 lb)
Combat weight:
[A1] 10,920 kg (24,080 lb); [A2] 11,343 kg (25,007 lb)
Power train
Engine:
One 215 bhp (81 kW) General Motors 6V53, 6-cylinder, 2 stroke diesel, 2,800 rpm
Power-to-weight ratio:
17.1 hp/ton
Transmission:
Allison TX-100, 3 ranges forward, 1 reverse
Transfer case:
Axles:
Tracks:
{A1] T130E1, center guide, single pin, steel with detachable rubber pad; [A2] T150, center guide, double pin, steel with chevron rubber pad
Suspension:
Torsion bar type. Five individually sprung dual/track road wheels. Flat track return rollers. Ten-tooth front drive, drive sprockets. Dual adjustable idlers at rear of track. Shock absorbers on first and last road wheels/track, additional shock absorber on second wheel/track on A2 units.
Performance
Max land speed:
[road] 64 kph (40 mph); [cross-country] 25 kph (15 mph)
Water speed:
5.8 kph (3.6 mph)
Acceleration:
0-30 kph (0-19 mph), 11 sec
Range, cruising:
[road] 483 km (300 mi)
Vertical obstacle:
0.61 m (2')
Trench:
1.68 m (5.5')
Fording depth:
1.02 m (3.33')
Gradient:
60%
Side slope:
30%
Turning diameter, minimum:
7.9 m (26')
Weapon Systems
Main gun:
12.7 mm HMG in 1-m Textron turret or pintle-mounted 12.7 mm with cupola; M39 A3 20 mm
Max effective range:
1,800 m; 1,000 m (20 mm)
Rate of fire:
450 rpm; 1,500 rpm (20 mm)
Ammunition:
2,000 rounds
Ammunition type:
Ball
Rangefinder:
None
Night gun sight:
Passive/IR
Secondary gun:
7.62 mm LMG coax
Max effective range:
1,100 m
Rate of fire:
100 rpm
Ammunition:
2,000 rounds
Ammunition type:
Rangefinder:
Night gun sight:
Other Defenses:
Nightvision Equipment Passive/IR
Variants used:
M113A1, M113A2, M113 FSV, M113 25 mm; M113 20 mm
Program:
Developed and designed in the late 50's by Ford Motor Co. and Kaiser Aluminum and Chemical Co. from the M59 and M75. The M-113 was originally developed and manufactured by the Food Machinery Corp. (FMC) of San Jose, California as to fulfill the requirements for a family of Airborne Armored Multi-Purpose Vehicle (AAM-PV). It was utilized extensively during the Vietnam war, where its passengers quickly learned that instead of just transporting them to the front, they can fight from the inside the APC's protected hull against hostile infantry, and the workhorse APC was born. About 80,000 of all types were developed by USA's FMC and Italy's OTO Melara and it is still in production. The PA has about 100 units serving with the PA-LAD.
Structure: Designed to be air-transportable, it can be carried by C-130H "Hercules" transport aircraft. The APC was designed simply to transport infantry to the frontlines in a light caliber-protected hull. The hull is built of aircraft-grade aluminum in which the vehicle derives its versatility - it is lightweight thereby allowing the use of a small engine, a General Motors 6V53, 2 stroke, 6-cylinder diesel, developing 215 bhp, at 2,800 rpm, and having a larger payload than most vehicle its size. Can accelerate from 0 to 30 kph in 11 seconds. Has turning radius of 4.27 meters and ground pressure of 7.9 psi. Fuel capacity, 360 liters (95 gallons). DS200 controlled differential, steering levers with differential band brakes. It has high speed on roads, and is capable of cross-country travel over rough terrain, though if any of its track shoe is damaged, the vehicle may become inoperable or unstable in motion as it may result in roll-overs, when steering. The APC can also ford streams and lakes powered by its tracks. Infra-red driving lights are standard, with M19 infra-red periscope for driver. The driver is seated on the front and left side with the engine to the right, while the commander's hatch is at the center and personnel compartment to the rear. Infantry enters and leave the APC through a rear ramp. A roof hatch is also located above the troop compartment, where an additional pintle-mounted, shielded machine-gun can be emplaced, in addition to the primary gun, which is usually 12.7 mm HMG inside a one meter Textron turret (in uprated versions), or a 12.7 mm mounted on a cupola with shields or the more common pintle-mounted, shielded 12.7 mm HMG. Other M-113 variants seen in service within the AFP is one that sports a 25 mm chain gun in an EWS, similar to that in the AIFV or the L23, 76 mm cannon and turret system obtained from a decommissioned Scorpion unit. The M-113's main weakness is that it is vulnerable to high-caliber weapons and RPG hits. Survivability can be increased by adding bolt-on armor and sand bags outside and kevlar spall liners inside. Though it is lightly armored compared to most IFVs, its ability to be deployable from the air from aircraft both fixed-wing and rotary make the M-113 versatile and indispensable. Units upgraded to A1 standards in 1964, have their gasoline engines replaced by diesel, to increase its range and reduce its flammability and a new power train was incorporated. Units upgraded to A2 standard, first introduced in 1979, had a new, improved engine cooling layout brought about by switching the location of the fan and radiator. A higher-strength torsion bars which increased road wheel travel and ground clearance, and a stronger rear idler was installed and raised 5.1 cm (2") to reduce the incidence of ground strikes. New shock absorbers were fitted, and shock absorbers were added to the second road wheels on each side. New armored fuel tanks were available as well and were fitted externally located on either side of the rear entry ramp. They contained the same 360 liters (95 gallons) of diesel as the internal tank, and freed up 0.45 cubic meter (16 cubic feet) of internal space. Weight with the external fuel tanks increased to 11,740 kg (25,880 lb); 0.58 kg/cm² (8.2 psi); and the length was 5.3 meter (17.375 feet). Smoke grenade launchers were also made available and these four-tube assemblies were located on either bow below the headlight cluster. PA units though neither have the external tanks nor the grenade dischargers.
Modernization: There are plans to acquire/upgrade the fleet to A3 status for screening, recon, security missions and transport of equipment during tactical situations. The projects intends to extend the operational life of the M113s for another 15 years and improve its capabilities and performance in terms of mobility, firepower, communication, survivability and maintainability. Some units are also planned to be upgraded to Fire Support Vehicle (FSV) status by arming them with the Singaporean company CIS' 40 mm AGL/12.7 mm HMG coax turret, which is capable of firing airburst ammunition, approved budget for the project is P144-M. The Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) uses this version with the 40 mm/12.7 mm combo turret. In 2007, the PA armed unit with the M-39A3 20 mm automatic cannon, taken from decommissioned F-5s, the PA traded their twelve M-134D gatling guns which they are currently acquiring under the Phase 1 of the Capability Upgrade Program, for the 20 mm cannons from the PAF. The gun was modified and mounted on a M113 and have successfully conducted evaluation tests. If the plan will be approved, the PA envisions to get around 30-40 guns and organize a platoon of AVs armed with 20 mm to be issued to line battalions. This will give the Army an mobile anti-aircraft platform. Other plans may include additional add-on armor and reconfiguring some units as mortar carriers, with one unit have been evaluated with an 81 mm mortar mount in March 2008.

Two views of PA-LAD's M-113 APC, taken from the 1990 Independence day parade at the Luneta. Pictures by opus from timawa.net.

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GKN Defence Land Systems/Alvis Vickers Limited FS.100 'Simba' 4x4 APC/ACV/IFV
Type:
Armored Personnel Carrier/ Armored Combat Vehicle/ Infantry Fighting Vehicle
Country of origin:
United Kingdom
Armor:
8 mm, conventional steel alloy, proof against 7.62 mm AP ammunition
Crew:
[APC] Commander, Driver + 10 Infantry; [ACV/IFV] Commander, Driver + 6 Infantry
Air transportability:
Dimensions
Length:
5.35 m (17.55')
Width:
2.5 m (8.2')
Height:
[APC] 2.19 m (7.2'); [IFV] 2.53 m (8.3')
Ground clearance:
Weights and loadings
Basic weight:
9,500 kg (20,900 lb)
Combat weight:
11,200 kg (24,640 lb)
Power train
Engine:
One 212 bhp (158 kW) Perkins Phaser 210Ti turbocharged V-8 diesel, intercooled, 2,500 rpm
Power-to-weight ratio:
19.43 hp/ton
Transmission:
Clarke 13.7 LHR 28422
Transfer case:
Axles:
Tires:
[APC] 13.00x20 radial tires, run-flat inserts; [IFV] 14.75x80 radial tires, run-flat inserts
Suspension:
Semi-elliptical springs and hydraulic shock dampers at each wheel station.
Performance
Max land speed:
100 kph (62.5 mph)
Water speed:
Acceleration:
Max range:
660 km (410 mi)
Vertical obstacle:
0.45 m (1.47')
Trench:
0.41 m (1.53')
Max fording depth:
1.0 m (3.28')
Gradient:
60%
Side slope:
40%
Turning radius:
8.38 m (27.5')
Weapon Systems
Main gun:
[APC] 12.7 mm HMG QCB in 1-m Textron turret; [IFV] Boeing M-242 25 mm Bushmaster chain gun in a Thales (formerly Helio) FVT925 turret
Max effective range:
[APC] 1,800 m; [IFV] 2,460 m
Rate of fire:
[APC] 450 rpm; [IFV] 175 rpm
Ammunition:
[APC] 1,200 rounds
Ammunition type:
[APC] Ball
Rangefinder:
Optical
Night gun sight:
White searchlight
Secondary gun:
Max effective range:
Rate of fire:
Ammunition:
Ammunition type:
Rangefinder:
Night gun sight:
Other defenses:
2 x 66 mm Multi-barreled smoke dischargers
Variants used:
APC variant , IFV 25 mm variant, Ambulance variant
Program:
Designed as a private venture by UK's (formerly GKN Sankey) for FMS. Developed in 1980 as a complement to the Saxon, with the prototype first produced in 1981 with development continued through the 80's. The AFP ordered 150 units at P360,000 each, complete while most of them were assembled from completely knocked-down units by Asian Armor Vehicles Technologies Corp. (formerly by Philippine International Trading Corp.) under license from UK's GKN Sankey Limited, actual assembly work was undertaken by Philippine Corp. at its Subic Bay facility with Clark Equipment and Perkins Engines as major subcontractors. Total cost of the deal was $46-M. As a private venture, under this program, GKN exported the bare units which did not include arms and tires, and PITC assembled the parts and added locally made components. It is the only country that uses this APC. The first production units were commissioned in 1991. They were used in operations by the PA-LAD in the South against insurgents, where some units were lost to RPGs. Also utilized by the PSG. A total of 152 units were produced (including Alvis' 2 prototypes). Asian Armor Vehicles Technologies Corp. is Simba's the sole licensed assembler.
Structure: All-welded steel alloy armored monocoque hull. Simba which means "Lion" is powered by a Perkins 210Ti turbocharged diesel, intercooled, developing 212 bhp at 2500 rpm, fuel capacity 296 liters (78.72 gallons). A 24V electrical system with two 12V, 90 Ah batteries are fitted. Clark Equipment provided the 13.7 LHR 28422 automatic gearbox with one reverse and four forward gear ratios. A two-gear-ratio transfer case offering a choice of two or four wheel drive is standard, and steering is power assisted. While two wheel drive is available, the Simba is considered to be a four-wheel drive vehicle. The suspension system uses semi-elliptical springs and hydraulic shock dampers at each wheel station. The 13.00x20 radial tires are fitted with run-flat inserts. The Simba is considered suitable to tropical and rugged terrain, and can ford up to 1 meter deep water. The driver is seated in front at the left side with the gearbox and engine to the right. The driver is provided with bulletproof windows and a single-piece hatch cover. All automotive components are commercially available. It has three crew members and can transport from ten to twelve infantrymen which can enter and leave through a door at the rear and at the left side. In the basic APC, the commander sits in the middle, slightly above the driver, and is provided with a cupola with four vision blocks. The troop compartment, located to the rear of the vehicle, seats the infantrymen across from one another. Armored vision blocks and firing ports are positioned along the sides of the troop compartment. Normally armed with a 12.7 mm HMG in a manned turret, some IFV variants are also seen with a Boeing M-242 25 mm chain gun mounted in a Thales (formerly Helio) FVT925 turret, (which increases the unit's height to 2.53 m) or the 40 mm AGL/ 12.7 mm HMG combo turret from CIS of Singapore. Other variants available but not used on PA units includes a 90 mm FSV model sporting a Cockerill Mk. 3 90 mm gun, a 81 mm mortar carrier, which can be fitted at the rear of the vehicle, a proposed anti-tank variant sporting BGM-71 TOW, M-901 Improved TOW or the Euromissile with HOT HCT turret and the Internal Security Vehicle variant, which can be fitted with riot screens, barricade removers, PA system and turret with smoke and tear gas launchers. Standard equipment on the Simba includes a fire extinguishing system, run-flat inserts for the tires, a forced air ventilation system, and interior roof insulation. The optional equipment includes air conditioning, an auxiliary power unit, searchlights, a heating system for both the crew compartment and engine, a front-mounted winch, and other specialized internal security equipment. A larger version of the Simba dubbed as the MX-1 Kalakian APC, was developed for the PA which reportedly ordered about 20 units. Some Simba units were seen outfitted as armored ambulances.
Modernization: Proposed SRDP projects in 2002 included the fabrication of view blocks for armored vehicles and tire changer, to be supervised and implemented by the RDC, ASCOM, PA.

Two views of the FS.100 Simba ACV, the picture in the left serves with the PA-LAD., while that on the right is with the PSG. Pictures by opus from timawa.net.

Two more views of the FS.100 Simba ACV, the picture in the left is armed with a 25 mm Bushmaster chain gun., an ambulance variant is shown right. Pictures by opus from timawa.net

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Textron Marine & Land Systems Division LAV-300 Mk. 2 'Commando' 6x6
Type:
Armored Personnel Carrier, Wheeled (APC,W)
Country of origin:
USA
Armor:
16 mm max, Cadillac Gage Type 2001 Cadloy high hardness ballistic steel plate, proof against 7.62 mm ball ammunition (vision blocks and periscopes hardened to same level)
Crew:
Commander, Gunner, Driver + 8 Marines
Air transportability:
roll-on/roll-off C-130
Dimensions
Length:
6.7 m (22')
Width:
2.54 m (8.3')
Height, hull:
1.98 m (6.5')
Ground clearance, nominal:
0.53 m (1.75')
Wheelbase:
2.21 m (7.25')
Weights and loadings
Basic weight:
12,292 kg (27,100 lb)
Combat weight:
14,545 kg (31,999 lb)
Power train
Engine:
One Cummins 275 hp QSC 6 CTA 8.3, turbocharged, after-cooled V-8 diesel engine, 2,500 rpm
Power-to-weight ratio:
18.94 hp/ton
Transmission:
AllisonMD3560, 6-speed
Transfer case:
Single speed, helical gears
Axles:
Single reduction hypoid - silent locking differential
Tires:
14.00R20, run flat inserts
Suspension:
Independent trailing arms with coil springs and shock absorbers
Performance
Max land speed:
105 kph (65 mph)
Water speed:
4.8 kph (3 mph)
Acceleration:
0-32 kph (0-20 mph), 10 sec
Range:
953 km (575 mi)
Vertical obstacle:
0.61 m (2')
Trench:
1.52 m (4.99')
Max fording depth:
1.98 m (6.49')
Gradient:
60%
Side slope:
30%
Turning diameter, nominal:
20 m (68')
Weapon Systems
Main gun:
[FSV] Cockerill Mk.3 90 mm/36 cal rifled gun; [APC] 40 mm AGL
Max effective range:
Rate of fire:
Ammunition:
[FSV] 42 rounds (9 rounds ready)
Ammunition type:
Rangefinder:
Night gun sight:
White searchlight
Secondary gun:
[FSV] 7.62 mm LMG coax, 7.62 mm anti-aircraft LMG; [APC] 12.7 mm HMG coax
Max effective range:
[FSV] 1,100 m; [APC] 1,800 m
Rate of fire:
[FSV] 100 rpm; [APC] 450 rpm
Ammunition:
[FSV] 400 rounds (coax), 200 rounds (anti-aircraft)
Ammunition type:
Rangefinder:
x8 power monocular sight and x1 power periscope for gunner, three vision blocks for commander
Night gun sight:
White searchlight
Other Defenses:
None
Variants used:
V-300 APC, V-300 FSV
Program:
Developed by Textron Marine and Land Systems (formerly Cadillac-Gage) as a private venture to complement their existing LAV-150 4x4 series for FMS. The AFP acquired about twelve V-300 6x6 APC units and twelve V-300 6x6 FSV variant from the US in February 1995 under FMS program and is the PMC's share in the US Bases compensation program (where they were initially offered LVTP-7 in the 80's). All of the AFP's V-300s are assigned to the PMC's Light Armor Vehicle Company (LAV Co), Assault Armor Battalion (AABN), and were extensively used during the height of the 2000 conflict in Mindanao with a confirmed loss of a FSV variant.
Structure: The V-300 is basically a bigger and improved version of the V-150. This 6x6 APC is powered by a Cummins QSC 6 CTA 8.3, turbocharged, after-cooled V-8 diesel engine, developing 275 hp, which can accelerate from 0 to 32 kph under 10 seconds and can travel as fast as 100 kph on roads. Fuel capacity is 200 liters and it can run on Jet A-1, kerosene or other lighter fuels in place of diesel. Six driving wheels (6x6), front wheel steering, with dual hydraulic brakes permits the vehicle to go from 32 kph to 0 in approximately 12 m (40'). Front axle has solid beam on trailing arms. Rear axles have independent trailing arm with coil springs and one shock absorber. The minimum silhouette hull is constructed of high-hardness ballistic steel plates which can defeat 7.62 mm AP hits in the front, and 7.62 mm ball hits point blank on the side and rear. The survivability is further enhanced from low observable technology to minimize levels of thermal, seismic and audio signatures, and minimal radar return. Optional upgradeable armor floor plating can protect the crew from landmines and hand grenade blasts. It has a crew of three and can carry up to nine infantrymen, which can enter and leave through a rear ramp, which was a modification from the original rear hatch. The V-300 can also ford water through the additional waterjets installed though it can be run by the propeller action of its radial tubeless tires as well. The 6x6 tires are capable of running even when it is punctured and can be optionally outfitted with run-flat inserts and a central tire inflation system, to further enhance mobility. The Marine V-300 also has a trim-vane added but the provisions for the smoke/grenade dischargers and winch were omitted. The Marines uses the basic APC, with a 12.7 mm HMG and a 7.62 mm coax mounted in a manned 1-m Textron turret, which can traverse 360°, and the fire support Mk. 2 variant, which sports a Cockerill 90 mm gun in a two-man CSE 90 turret, which can power traverse 360° at 30° per second. The front of the FSV's turret can stand up to 14.5 mm hits in the front and up to 7.62 mm hits elsewhere. The FSV variant also has a coaxial 7.62 mm LMG and an additional pintle-mounted 12.7 mm shielded HMG atop the 90 mm's turret.
Modernization: The PMC's APC variants were uprated with the Singaporean company CIS' 40 mm AGL/12.7 mm HMGs coax turret to increase its firepower, with the assistance of FIC of Tanay, Rizal in 2003. The 40 mm AGL can also be interchangeable with a 7.62 mm LMG. The modifications also involved changes in the periscope and vision blocks to enable the gunner to fire highly accurate shots, with a variety of 40 mm AGL ammunition such as HE, Smoke, and FIC's Canister loaded with 300 shotgun pellets for use against close-in ambushes by hostile infantry. It may also be uparmored with additional bolt-on armor and the proposed RPG mesh system to enhance its defensive systems.

Two views of the Marines' V-300, one is the APC variant and the other is the FSV variant sporting a 90 mm gun. Pictures by opus from timawa.net.

More photos of the Marines' V-300, one is at the left sports a makeshit wooden applique armor, another view of the FSV variant at the right.. Pictures by opus from timawa.net.

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Gage-Cadillac LAV-150 (M-706) 'Commando' 4x4 APC
Type:
Armored Personnel Carrier, Wheeled (APC,W)
Country of origin:
USA
Armor:
6.4 mm (¼"), Cadloy steel plate protects against 7.62 mm ammunition
Crew:
Commander, Driver + 10 Infantry
Air transportability:
roll-on/roll-off C-130
Dimensions
Length:
5.69 m (18.66')
Width:
2.26 m (7.41')
Height:
1.98 m (6.5')
Ground clearance:
Weights and loadings
Basic weight:
7,484 kg (16,465 lb)
Combat weight:
9,545.45 kg (21,000 lb)
Power train
Engine:
One 191 hp Chrysler V-504 liquid cooled V-8 diesel engine; Cummins 6BT5-9 turbocharged diesel (on uprated units)
Power-to-weight ratio:
20:23 hp/metric ton
Transmission:
Allison 4x4 , 5-speed
Transfer case:
Axles:
Tires:
14x20, run flat
Suspension:
Solid beam ale, semi-elliptical multileaf spring suspension with double hydraulic shock absorbers
Performance
Max land speed:
90 kph (56 mph)
Water speed:
5 kph (3 mph)
Acceleration:
Range:
812 km (505 mi)
Vertical obstacle:
0.61 m (2')
Trench:
Max fording depth:

Gradient:
60%
Side slope:
30%
Turning radius:
8.38 m (27.5')
Weapon Systems
Main gun:
12.7 mm HMG in 1-m Textron turret
Max effective range:
1,800 m
Rate of fire:
450 rpm
Ammunition:
1,200 rounds
Ammunition type:
Ball
Rangefinder:
M-20 gunsights
Night gun sight:
White searchlight
Secondary gun:
7.62 mm LMG coax
Max effective range:
1,100 m
Rate of fire:
100 rpm
Ammunition:
Ammunition type:
Rangefinder:
Night gun sight:
White searchlight
Other Defenses:
2 x Multibarrel smoke dischargers
Variants used:
V-150, V-150ST
Program:
Designed by in 1962 by Textron Marine and Land Systems (formerly Cadillac-Gage) as a reconnaissance vehicle, convoy escort, command, patrol and riot control platform, it saw service during the Vietnam war. The US Army does not use this APC but is used for FMS with about 3,000 in service to foreign armies. The AFP has about 165 units delivered including several older V-100s and 20 units of its Portuguese copy, Chaimite and 10 V-150S delivered in 1994, and are in service to the PA-LAD, PNP-SAF, PSG and PMC's Light Armor Vehicle Company (LAV Co). It is arguably the most common armored vehicle used by the PA from the 70's up to the late 90's, but is now being superseded by the Simba ACV.
Structure: Powered by a Chrysler liquid cooled V-8 diesel engine, developing 191 hp, with a five-speed transmission, giving the vehicle a maximum cruising speed of 90 kph on four 14 x 20 run flat tires, which can still run 45 kph for about 150 kilometers after being punctured. The vehicle has a range of 643 kilometers on its 303 liters fuel capacity. It is fully amphibious, needing no special preparation and can ford streams and lakes at 5 kph from the propeller action of its tires. Four wheels powered (4x4), with front wheels steering and solid beam ale, semi-elliptical multileaf spring suspension with double hydraulic shock absorbers. It has a crew of two and can carry eleven infantrymen. Its quarter inch thick armor can defeat up to .30 caliber at point blank range. Optional 3/8" armor can withstand .50 cal round hits. The V-150 is available in various configurations, including command, recovery, mortar, TOW, air defense vehicles, and armored personnel carrier. A variety of armament stations can be installed, including most light and medium automatic weapons, missile systems, mortars, and cannons up to 90 mm. Main armament options used in the AFP for the V-150 includes 2 x 7.62 mm (800 rounds ready, 3000 in hull), and 2 x 12.7 mm (400 rounds ready , 1,000 in hull). Other variants includes 1 x 20 mm Oerlikon (200 rounds ready, 200 in hull), or 1 x 25 mm (200 rounds ready, 200 in hull), or 1 x 12.7 mm MG and 40 mm AGL, or 1 x 90 mm (8 rounds ready 31 in hull), or 1 x 81 mm mortar (62 rounds in hull). The AFP Logistics Command also developed two, local prototype version of the V-150 called the Hari-Digma, which has a US-made engine and locally manufactured components.
Modernization: Some twelve units of V-150s were upgraded in 1998 to V-150ST, where they have extended rear compartments and turbocharged engines. Gage-Cadillac Textron undertook the Light Armor System Upgrade (LARSU) in 2004, which involved the mobility upgrade of twelve units of V-150 APCs by refitting the power train with 6-cylinder in-line internal combustion engines, for P170.88-M. In 2006 some of the PMC's V-150's have installed additional rear 12.7 mm HMG mounts taken from decommissioned units. The PMC's own LARSU Phase I project conceptualized as far back as 1994 will start on August 2006, with Textron Marine & Land Systems Division as the prime contractor to be done in Laguna. Under this program the Marine's V-150 Chrysler diesel engines will be uprated to the Cummins turbocharged diesel engines (similar to those in the V-300s), which will require the cutting and extension of the hull, which did not just involved the cutting and insertion of the section between the rear-end of the vehicle and the main body. Gage-Cadillac actually fabricated a whole new rear-end to accommodate the new engine, with the old aft sections to be utilized for future use. The power-pack, consisting the new Cummins engine, Allison transmission, transfer case, cooling system and electrical modifications, is packaged at the Textron Marine & Land facilities in New Orleans and shipped to the Philippines for installation. Furthermore the old engines and the old aft section were reconfigured and installed on four V-100 Chaimite APC also to be reconfigured as ambulances and mortar carriers, if funds are allocated. Phase II of the PMC LARSU program involves the installtion of RCWS. The PA is still considering on repowering their V-150s with the Cummins diesel engines. The V-150 maybe also be considered for additional bolt-on armor (some units were seen with improvised wooden appliqué armors to predetonate RPG warheads in the Mindanao campaigns) and the proposed PMC RPG mesh system.

Two photos of Marine V-150, the left pic have an additional 12.7 mm HMG mount. Pictures by opus from timawa.net, infos from Manokski and mblt6.

Two photos of Marine V-150S, note the extended hulls. Pictures by opus from timawa.net.

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British Daimler Ferret MX-7 Scout Car
Type:
Armored Scout Vehicle
Country of origin:
UK
Armor:
Crew:
Commander/Gunner, Driver
Air transportability:
Dimensions
Length:
3.7 m (12' 2")
Width:
1.91 m (6' 3")
Height:
1.88 m (6' 2")
Tread:
Ground clearance:
Ground pressure, zero penetration:
Weights and loadings
Combat weight:
14,500 kg (31,900 lb)
Power train
Engine:
One diesel engine
Power-to-weight ratio:
35.1 hp/tonne
Transmission:
Transfer case:
Axles:
Tracks:
Suspension:
4x4 wheel
Performance
Max land speed:
93 kph (58 mph)
Water speed:
Acceleration:
Range, cruising:
[road] 306 km (190 mi)
Vertical obstacle:
Trench:
Max fording depth:
Gradient:
Side slope:
Turning diameter:
Weapon Systems
Main gun:
7.62 mm
Max effective range:
Rate of fire:
Elevation:
Traverse:
Ammunition:
Ammunition type:
Rangefinder:
Night gun sight:
None
Other defenses:
2 x Four-barrel smoke dischargers
Program:
Designed as a light armoured, all wheel drive, cross country scout car which was produced between 1952 and 1971. The PA acquired a unit for the single purpose of using the unit as a reference for the locally-designed Escort Vehicle MX-8, built by Steelcraft Industries. Its designation MX-7 come from Steelcraft as well.
Structure:
Built from an all-welded monocoque steel body, making the drive extremely noisy as all the running gear was within the enclosed body with the crew. Four wheel drive was incorporated together with run-flat tires. The turret, carries a single 7.62 mm machine gun, with six grenade launchers fitted to the hull (three on each side) carried smoke grenades. It is fast and small enough to be used in an urban environment but strong enough to negotiate rugged terrain off road. The PA have the upgraded, diesel version of the Ferret.

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Ingersoll/Pacific Car and Foundry Co. LVTH-6
Type:
Landing Vehicle, Tracked, Howitzer
Country of origin:
USA
Armor:
6.4-16 mm rolled homogenous steel
Crew:
Commander, Gunner, Driver, Loader, Crew chief + 2 Ammunition passers
Air transportability:
Dimensions
Length:
9.04 m (30')
Width:
3.57 m (11.71')
Height, over AAMG:
4.08 m (13.38')
Tread:
2.96 m (9.725')
Ground clearance:
0.43 m (1.42')
Ground pressure, zero penetration:
0.64 kg/cm² (9.1 psi)
Weights and loadings
Combat weight:
39,300 kg (86,600 lb)
Weight, amphibious:
38,200 kg (84,200 lb)
Power train
Engine:
One 704 hp Continental LV-1790-1, 4 stroke, 12-cylinder 90° gasoline, 810 hp at 2,800 rpm
Power-to-weight ratio:
19 hp/ton
Transmission:
Allison CD-850-4A or -4B, 2 ranges forward, 1 reverse
Transfer case:
Axles:
Tracks:
Center guide, single pin, steel with inverted grouser
Suspension:
Torsilastic type. Nine pairs of dual/track road wheels. Five dual/track return rollers. Seventeen-tooth rear drive sprockets. Dual compensating idlers at front of track. No shock absorbers
Performance
Max land speed:
48.3 kph (30 mph)
Water speed:
11 kph (6.8 mph)
Acceleration:
Range, cruising:
[road] 306 km (190 mi); [water] 92 km (57 mi)
Vertical obstacle:
0.91 m ( 3')
Trench:
3.66 m (12')
Max fording depth:
Floats
Gradient:
70%
Side slope:
60%
Turning diameter:
Weapon Systems
Main gun:
M-49 105 mm in T-172 mount
Max effective range:
Rate of fire:
Elevation:
-4.1° to +59° (manual, stabilized)
Traverse:
360° (at 21°/sec, manual or hydraulic)
Ammunition:
151 rounds (12 rounds ready)
Ammunition type:
Rangefinder:
Night gun sight:
Secondary gun:
M-1919A4E1 7.62 mm coax MG
Max effective range:
Rate of fire:
Ammunition:
Ammunition type:
Rangefinder:
Night gun sight:
None
Other defenses:
M-2 HB 12.7 mm roof HMG
Variants used:
LVTH-6
Program:
First saw service in 1957 and well into the Vietnam war, where about 210 LVTH-6 variant were produced. The LVTH-6 (Howitzer) variant were used as fire support vehicles (FSV) during the early Mindanao campaigns in the 1970's (and thus does not carry additional personnel other than its crew). The PMC currently has four fully-operational LVTH-6A1s and about five in reserve. These units are utilized by the PMC's Assault Amphibian Vehicle Company (AAV Co), Assault Armor Battalion (AABN).
Structure: Basically the same as the LVTP-5, with identical hulls and specs, but the H-6 model armed with a short barreled 105 mm howitzer mounted on a traversing turret, over the cargo compartment, capable of both direct, indirect and high angle fire. The commander seats in the rear, right, the gunner at the rear, front, with the loader at the rear, left, the driver at the left, front, the crew chief in front, right. The commander and loader have their own hatches in the turret. For amphibious operations weight is reduced by having only 51 rounds of ammunition. The turret has 25 mm front armor, 19 mm on the sides and 7 mm on the top. They also have an additional .30 cal coaxial LMG and a 12.7 mm pintle-mounted HMG atop the turret. In 2005 the PMC have brought back two additional units and will be utilized as Urban Fire Support Vehicles by the Marine Ready Force (MRF) based in Manila. They have additional frontal armor (and about 580 kg of extra weight) but their amphibious capabilities were initially not restored, fuel lines were also reinforced as well as some other internal modifications. Both sport the Berlin Brigade camouflage, similar to the one used by armored units of the PSG. A fifth LVT is being brought to operational status by reservists lacks the 105 mm gun and is an E1 (Engineer, model 1) version. It will be mounted with an Oerlikon Mk.4 20 mm/70 and will be used as an anti-aircraft platform and to ram road blocks. A sixth LVT is under consideration pending its role. A recent amphibious exercise in General Santos revived the Navy's interest in having an amphibious capability. The operational LVTs will have rubber linings and bilge pumps re-installed to reincorporate its amphibious functions, though its add-on armor may pose some weight and buoyancy problems, which may be compensated by the LVTH-6 having a lower ammunition load. This is why the PMC have reactivated some LARC-Vs to compensate for the lessened ammunition load of the LVTH-6s.

Photo of a Marine Ready Force's LVTH-6A1, with additional frontal armor. Pictures by opus from timawa.net, Manokski, and mblt6.

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