TAPV

   The TAPV or Tactical Armored Patrol Vehicle was developed by Textron as a private venture. It is a heavier derivative of the combat-proven M1117 Guardian armored security vehicle, which is used by the US Army. The TAPV was designed for asymmetric warfare. Canadian Armed Forces ordered 500 of these vehicles in 2012 with an option for 100 more. First vehicles were scheduled to be delivered in 2014. However deliveries were set back to begin in 2016. It was planned that deliveries will be completed in around 2018. The new vehicle gradually replaced the RG-31 mine resistant ambush protected vehicle, which was then in service with the Canadian Armed Forces. It was planned that out of 500 TAPVs ordered by the Canadian Armed Forces around 200 vehicles will be used for reconnaissance, while others will be used as armored personnel carriers.

   The TAPV has features of both armored personnel carrier and mine resistand ambush protected vehicle. It was designed to protect the crew and troops against landmines and improvised explosive devices. These were the major cause of death for Canadian soldiers in Afghanistan. Vehicle has a V-shaped hull, with blast absorbing belly armor and vented wheel wells. Blast protection was also improved by increased ground clearance. Crew and passengers have individual blast-protected seats. The TAPV withstands 10 kg of explosive blast anywhere under the hull. Blast protection of this armored vehicle equals to an mine resistant ambush protected vehicle. Hull protection is enhanced by composite armor. It seems that the front arc withstands 12.7 mm armor-piercing rounds. All-round protection is likely to be against small arms fire and artillery shell splinters. It is claimed that the TAPV is 20% better protected than the previous M1117.

   This armored vehicle is fitted with a dual weapon remotely controlled weapon station, armed with either 40 mm automatic grenade launcher or 12.7 mm heavy machine gun, alongside with 7.62 mm machine gun. The TAPV has also mounted 25 mm cannon for arms show display, however heavy armament exceeds the brief of the TAPV.

   The armored personnel carrier version has a crew of 3, including commander, gunner and driver, and can carry up to 7 troops. Reconnaissance version has a crew of four, including commander, gunner, driver and operator. Occupants enter and leave the vehicle via side doors or roof hatches.

   The Textron TAPV is powered by a Cummins QSL turbocharged diesel engine, developing 365 hp. Engine is located at the rear. This armored vehicle uses independent suspension axle system, originally designed by Irish Timoney. Vehicle is fitted with a central tyre inflation system. The TAPV is not amphibious.

   Despite the basic role of armored personnel carrier or reconnaissance vehicle, the Textron TAPV can be tailored to suit many battlefield roles. Possible versions include armored ambulance, command vehicle, mortar carrier or recovery vehicle.