LSVW

   The LSVW or Light Support Vehicle Wheeled is in service with Canadian armed forces. It is based on Iveco 40.10 WM and was built by the Western Star Trucks Inc. It is worth mentioning that the 40.10 is in service with at least ten NATO countries. The LSVW entered service in 1993 and replaced a number of old army trucks, purchased in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Over 2 800 of these light utility vehicles were built.

   This light utility vehicle was criticized for it's mechanical drawbacks, poor build quality and reliability, however much of the difficulty resulted from original specifications, as the main emphasis was stressed on fuel efficiency and low unit price. Canadian Government plans to acquire the next generation light support vehicles no later than 2011, as the LSVW was designed to perform for a twenty-year lifetime.

   The LSVW light utility vehicle has a payload capacity of 1.5 t. It is used to transport troops and light cargo as well as to fulfill other maintenance and support functions. The LSVW provides cargo capacity between that of the smaller Iltis and larger MLVW. Vehicles often tow an 850 kg trailer to extend carrying capacity. It can also tow a 105-mm light artillery piece.

   The LSVW is powered by a Fiat 2.5-liter turbocharged diesel engine, developing 115 hp. Two vehicles can be airlifted by the C-130 Hercules transport aircraft for rapid deployment.