Country of origin |
South Korea |
Entered service |
1985 |
Crew |
3 men |
Personnel |
9 men |
Dimensions and weight |
Weight |
12.9 t |
Length |
5.48 m |
Width |
2.84
m |
Height |
2.51 m |
Armament |
Machine guns |
1 x 12.7 mm, 1 x 7.62 mm |
Mobility |
Engine |
MAN D2848M diesel |
Engine power |
280 hp |
Maximum road speed |
74 km/h |
Amphibious speed on water |
6 m/h |
Range |
480 km |
Maneuverability |
Gradient |
60% |
Side slope |
30% |
Vertical step |
0.63 m |
Trench |
1.7 m |
Fording |
Amphibious |
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The KIFV
(Korean Infantry Fighting Vehicle) was developed by Daewoo in the
1980s. It was adopted by the South Korean Army in 1985. The baseline
model is known as the K200. Over 1
000 KIFVs were produced and some were exported to Malaysia.
Currently the South Korean Army replaces
these armored vehicles by the new
K806 and
K808
wheeled armored personnel carriers. Most KIFVs in South Korean army
service will be replaced by 2020.
The KIFV is
broadly similar to the YPR-765 infantry fighting vehicle developed
in the United States, which in turn is based on the
M113 APC.
Vehicle is
armed with one 12.7 mm machine gun and one 7.62 mm machine gun. There were
also some KIFV variants armed with a turret-mounted cannon. Korean
armored vehicle was uparmored comparing with the
M113 APC.
However in terms of classification
it is a well-armored APC rather than a true IFV.
The KIFV has a
crew of three and carries up to 9 troops, who enter and leave
vehicle via the rear power operated ramp.
Vehicle is
powered by a MAN non-turbocharged engine, developing 280 hp. Despite
increase in weight comparing with the M113, the KIFV retains its amphibious
capabilities.
An improved
K200A1 was introduced in 1994. It featured additional armor and
received a more powerful turbocharged engine delivering 350 hp to keep its
cross-country performance at the same level.
A number of
specialized vehicles were based on the KIFV including 82- and 120 mm
mortar carriers, command vehicle, repair and recovery vehicle.
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