Iveco SuperAV

   The Iveco SuperAV is a fully developed prototype of amphibious armored personnel carrier. It was developed as a private venture and revealed in 2009. This new armored vehicle is being proposed for Italian Army, however it is mainly aimed at the export customers. It is speculated that this armored vehicle was developed from the VBM Freccia 8x8 IFV, which is currently operated by the Italian Army. The SuperAV is lighter than the Freccia and also has amphibious capability.

   Armor of the SuperAV provides protection against small arms fire, artillery shell splinters, landmines and IEDs. Additional armor kit can be adapted. Vehicle is fitted with NBC protection and automatic fire suppression systems. Iveco claims, that the SuperAV has the highest protection level in it's class.

   Vehicle can be fitted with various weapon systems, including remotely controlled stations, or turrets.

   This armored personnel carrier can transport 12 troops plus the driver. This number is reduced to eight troops, if this armored personnel carrier is fitted with a two-man turret. Occupants enter and leave the vehicle via the rear doors or roof hatches.

   Vehicle is powered by Iveco Cursor turbocharged multi-fuel diesel engine, developing 500 - 560 hp, coupled with automatic transmission. This APC is fitted with central tyre inflation system and run-flat tyres. The Iveco SuperAV is fully amphibious. It can operate in Sea State 2 and beyond. On water it is propelled by two waterjets. It is worth mentioning, that this APC is being proposed in two body widths - 2.7 m and 3 m. The later has greater amphibious payload. Vehicle can be airlifted by the future Airbus A400M transport aircraft.

   It is anticipated that the SuperAV will be developed into a family of armored vehicles. Currently Brazilian MoD and Iveco jointly developed a VBTP-MR, also known as the Urutu III, 6x6 armored personnel carrier, based on the SuperAV.