FV107 Scimitar

   The FV107 Scimitar armored reconnaissance vehicle was developed by Alvis. It is based on the chassis of the FV101 Scorpion light tank and differs only in armament fit. The FV107 armored reconnaissance vehicles were usually deployed together with the FV101 Scorpion light tanks.  A total of 486 FV107 Scimitars were built for the Royal Army.

   The FV107 Scimitar is armed with a 30-mm Rarden cannon and coaxial 7.62-mm machine gun. The 30-mm cannon fires in single round or auto modes and has a maximum rate of fire in 80 rounds per minute. This cannon features a dual-fed system and gunner swap type of rounds fired instantly. The Rarden cannon is referred as a very accurate weapon. It is worth mentioning that the FV107 Scimitar has the same turret as used by the Fox wheeled armored reconnaissance vehicle.

   Armor of the Scimitar provides protection against small arms fire and artillery shell splinters.

   The FV107 has a crew of three, including commander, gunner and driver.

   Vehicle was powered by a Jaguar 4.2-liter commercially available sports car engine, however later on it was refitted with a Cummins diesel engine, developing 195 hp. The FV107 is amphibious after being fitted with floatation kit. On water it is propelled by its tracks.

   In 2014 the UK MoD ordered a total of 245 Scout SV reconnaissance vehicles. These are planned to enter service in 2017 and will replace the Scimitars in service with the British Army.