MOWAG Piranha IV

   The MOWAG Piranha IV armored personnel carrier was developed as a private venture. First prototype was completed in 2001. The most significant improvements over the Piranha II and III vehicles are it's higher level of protection, increased internal volume and greater carrying capacity. No production orders were placed on this vehicle to date.

   The Piranha IV can be fitted with a variety of weapon stations, armed with 12.7-mm MG, 25- or 30-mm cannons, or 105-mm low recoil guns.

   The Piranha IV has a high hardness armor steel hull, with provision for add-on armor kits. Vehicle fitted with level B modular armor package provides all-round protection from 14.5-mm armor-piercing projectiles. Over the frontal arc protection is provided against 30-mm armor-piercing rounds. Hull floor protects against 8 kg anti-tank mines. Vehicle is fitted with NBC protection and automatic fire suppression systems. The Piranha IV is equipped with signature reduction technology, making it more difficult to detect on the battlefield.

   Vehicle has a crew of 2-3 men depending on the mission variant. Furthermore Piranha IV provides accommodation for 9 - 10 fully equipped troops.

   Vehicle is powered by the MTU diesel engine, developing 544 hp. The Piranha IV is fitted with height-adjustable hydropneumatic suspension. Vehicle is fitted with run-flat tyres and central tyre pressure system. The Piranha IV is not amphibious. This APC can be airlifted by the C-130 Hercules transport aircraft.