Image source: topwar.ru
General Dynamics Land Systems (GDLS) has unveiled the new LAV 700 Desert Viper ("Desert Viper") 8x8 infantry fighting vehicle in the American pavilion at DIMDEX 2026 in Doha. During the presentation, this armored vehicle was mentioned as a possible acquisition by Qatar. A potential deal could be concluded as part of a larger purchase of U.S. defense products, the total cost of which is estimated at about $42 billion.
Earlier, in December 2017, Qatar signed a preliminary agreement of intent to purchase up to 490 French VBCI 8x8 infantry fighting vehicles, but the contract was never finalized. GDLS is currently trying to take advantage of this niche by offering the LAV 700 Desert Viper.
Desert Viper is equipped with a digital control architecture. Survivability measures include self-sealing fuel tanks, energy-absorbing seats, additional armor, and a double V-shaped hull (unlike classic MRAPs, the bottom has two parallel V-shaped ridges).
This protection configuration provides resistance to 14.5mm armor-piercing ammunition, and in the front to 30 mm shells. Additional overhead armor is designed to resist ATGM.
The car is equipped with a Caterpillar C13 twin-turbocharged diesel engine with 711 hp, as well as a 7-speed automatic transmission, all-wheel drive, independent suspension and disc brakes on all wheels. The cooling system ensures continuous operation in the extreme climatic conditions of deserts.
The LAV 700 in the assault version:
Image source: topwar.ru
The power unit is designed so that it can be dismantled and replaced in less than an hour. The maximum speed exceeds 110 km / h, the power reserve is more than 1000 km, the machine can overcome fords up to 1.2 m deep, trenches more than 2.2 m wide, and steep slopes up to 60 °.
The LAV 700 is 8.2 m long, 3 m wide, 2.8 m high, and weighs about 21,000 kg. The chassis is designed for a load of more than 32,000 kg. The crew consists of 3 people, and the landing party consists of 6-8 infantrymen. Access to the car is through an electric rear ramp and sunroof.
Armament can be represented by remotely controlled modules with 7.62mm or 12.7mm machine guns, medium (with 30/40 mm guns) or large (with 90/105 mm) caliber turrets, 120 mm mortars, ATGM.
The Desert Viper is a modification of the LAV 700, modified to meet the specific requirements of Qatar, mainly in terms of cooling and electronics. Earlier, in 2014, Saudi Arabia purchased the basic version of the LAV 700, paying $ 13-15 billion for 742 vehicles (although the contract was supposed to be $ 10 billion). The deal was signed with Canada, becoming the largest defense order in its history. The main work is being carried out at the GDLS-Canada plant in London, Ontario.
