NZLAV

   The NZLAV or New Zealand Light Armored Vehicle, is a variant of the General Dynamics LAV III, which in turn is a license produced version of the MOWAG Piranha III. Since 2003 New Zealand acquired over 100 of these armored vehicles, including variants, to replace the ageing M113 family. Currently the New Zealand Defense Forces is the only operator of this personnel carrier. The standard armored personnel carrier is used in reconnaissance and forward observation roles.

   Armor of the NZLAV provides all-round protection against 7.62-mm rounds. Vehicle can be fitted with add-on ceramic armor, which provides protection against 14.5-mm machine guns fire. Some sources clam that this add-on armor can withstand 30-mm hits. The NZLAV can be also fitted with a slat armor, which provides protection against RPG rounds. This armored vehicle has a strengthened undercarriage for improved mine protection. An NBC protection and automatic fire suppression systems a fitted as standard. A number of vehicles are fitted with laser warning receivers.

   The main armament of the NZLAV APC is a turret-mounted M242 Bushmaster 25-mm automatic cannon. Effective range of fire is 2 400 m. A total of 420 rounds are carried for the main gun. The NZLAV is also fitted with two 7.62-mm machine guns. One of them is mounted coaxially with the main cannon. Another is mounted on the turret. This armored vehicle is fitted with eight grenade dischargers, capable of launching HE or smoke grenades for self-defense.

   The NZLAV has a crew of three, including commander, gunner and driver, and provides accommodation for 7 fully equipped troops. Soldiers enter and leave the vehicle through the rear ramp or roof hatches.

   The NZLAV is powered by a Caterpillar 3126 HEUI diesel engine, developing 350 hp. This armored vehicle has a hydropneumatic suspension system. Vehicle is fitted with a central tyre inflation system, switchable from the drivers station to match different terrain conditions. A number of vehicles are fitted with self-recovery winches and small blades for obstacle clearing and light engineering tasks. This armored personnel carrier is not amphibious. The NZLAV can be airlifted by the C-130 Hercules military transport aircraft.

Variants

   Recovery (LAV-R), armored recovery vehicle, fitted with a winch.