| RG-34 | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Type | MRAP |
| Place of origin | South Africa |
| Production history | |
| Designer | IADSA |
| Manufacturer | BAE Systems South Africa |
| Produced | 2009[1][unreliable source?] |
| Specifications | |
| Mass | 9,500 kg[1] |
| Length | 5,050 mm |
| Width | 2350 mm |
| Height | 2150 mm |
| Crew | 8[1] |
| Armor | Welded steel[1] |
Main | various |
| Engine | Fuel diesel[1] 160 kW (215 hp)[1] |
| Power/weight | 25.1 hp/tonne |
| Transmission | 5-speed automatic[1] |
| Fuel capacity | 156 litres |
Operational | 1000 km[1] |
| Maximum speed | 105 km/h[1] |
The RG-34 (formerly denoted as Iguana FV4) is a South African Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected vehicle (MRAP). Specially designed to be mine-resistant, it has been produced in multiple variants, equipped for troop or cargo transport, command, and fire support.[2][3] Originally showcased with a wide turret ring and a 90mm rifled cannon, the RG-34 was one of the first MRAPs configured to carry a large gun system.[4]
Development of the Iguana was initiated under contract by Industrial & Automotive South Africa (IADSA) for a Belgian firm, Sabiex; the first prototype being completed in early 2002. By June 2009, BAE Land Systems had obtained necessary rights to develop and manufacture the vehicle.[5] The RG-34 was initially displayed with a potent weapons system for an MRAP, in the form of an overlarge turret fitted with a 90mm (3.5 in.) gun.[6] This has since been replaced by a more ergonomic tactical remote turret (TRT) boasting a 25mm M242 autocannon and a co-axial 7.62mm machine gun.[1]
RG-34's cross-country performance is attributed to its unique suspension, a multi-link hydro-pneumatic structure mounted on a very rigid chassis. This affords optimal performance on road surfaces, a superior turning radius, and clearance over rugged terrain. When deployed in the reconnaissance role long-range fuel tanks give the vehicle an extended operating range of 1,000 kilometres.[1]
The hull of the RG-34 is of welded steel construction. Despite the weight restrictions imposed on wheeled platforms, all-around armour protection is reasonable against 7.62mm AP rounds at 30 metres, air burst fragments, and anti-tank mines.[1]
Nigeria: Manufactured for the Nigerian Armed Forces as the Proforce Pf1.[7] Possibly shelved in favour of the Igirigi.[8]
United Arab Emirates: Production rights granted.[9]
Malaysia: Produced under license as the Deftech AV4.[10] Two were ordered by the Royal Malaysian Police.[10] Up to 200 were scheduled to be produced under license, although it remains unclear whether this was successful.[4]|
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| Armoured cars |
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| Infantry Fighting Vehicles |
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| Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) |
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| Artillery, transport and combat engineering |
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| Related articles |
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