FV104 Samaritan

   The Samaritan is one of the Scorpion family of reconnaissance vehicles, equipped to fulfil the fire support role with a 76-mm gun, but also capable of fulfiling to a large degree the anti-tank and reconnaissance roles. A total of 101 FV104 Samaritans were built.

   The greatly increased mobility afforded by tracks, combined with advanced production techniques, permitted the design of a light, powerful, tracked reconnaissance weapon system with a fire power hitherto unattainable at the weight desired. Costs throughout have been kept down to the minimum, consistent with attaining the objects of mobility, firepower and protection. This has been done by using common components and layout and by using only assemblies and techniques known to be proven. At the same time the most modern materials and methods have been employed. The emphasis throughout has been on simplicity, simplicity in ease of maintenance and in crew training. Similarly inherent reliability has been built in. However, the basic vehicles are capable of sophisticated tasks according to the user's requirements by adding optional equipment such as night-fighting aids, radar and gas detector systems.

   The FV104 Samaritan can accommodate up to six stretchers in the rear compartment, and can be fitted into the fuselage of a C-130 Hercules transport aircraft.