EFA

   The EFA (Engin de Franchissement de l'Avant or forward crossing apparatus) is an amphibious bridging and ferrying system, used to carry tanks and other military vehicles across water obstacles. This amphibious rig can be used as a ferry or as a bridge, when deployed in series. It was developed by CEFA to replace the previous Gillois system in service with the French Army. It competed against a similar design of DCAN. Final trials were completed in 1987 and the CEFA design was selected. The French Army initially ordered 80 EFAs, however later this order was cut down to 39 units. First production vehicles were delivered the the French Army in 1992. Improved version of the EFA is in service with United Arab Emirates.

   This amphibious rig has light welded aluminum alloy hull and scissor-type ramps. During travelling on road ramps are folded on top of the vehicle. These are used for embarkation and disembarkation of vehicles. Before entering the water the EFA deploys hinged flaps on each side and the floats are inflated by compressor. On water wheels are retracted into the hull in order to reduce drag. When afloat this amphibious rig is propelled by two waterjets. The EFA switches from road configuration to ferry within 6 minutes.

   When used as a ferry it has a payload capacity of 70 t. It can carry one Leclerc MBT, two AMX-30 MBTs, or four armored personnel carriers. In one hour it is able to perform 10-12 crossings of 100 m wide river and 8-10 crossings of 200 m wide river.

   When used in conjunction with other EFAs as a floating bridge one unit has a span of 23.6 m. Four units can be coupled together in less than 10 minutes to form a 100 m long bridge. One main battle tank can pass at one time.

   The EFA is operated by a crew of four, including two drivers, commander and operator. This combat engineering vehicle carries no weapons. Cab of this amphibious rig has ballistic and NBC protection.

   The EFA is powered by Baudouin turbocharged diesel engine, developing 730 hp. It is coupled with 6-speed automatic transmission. This amphibious rig has a full-time all wheel drive. Also all four wheels are steered. Vehicle has a central tyre pressure system.

Variants

   EFA X1, improved version purchased by United Arab Emirates. In 2006 production of the improved version of the EFA commenced. It is fitted with a more powerful German MTU diesel engine, developing 760 hp. This combat engineering vehicle also has a number of other improvements. A total of 10 units were delivered to United Arab Emirates.