Image source: topwar.ru
The Polish company Huta Stalowa Wola S.A. presented the first prototype of the Heron 6×6 wheeled armored vehicle, created on the basis of the Czech armored car TADEAS, which in turn is based on the Tatra Force chassis (T 815-7). It is intended to be used as a battalion-level command post.
As indicated in the ZBIAM publication, the vehicle is equipped with TELDAT internal communication and data processing equipment, including the BMS JAŚMIN combat control system for battalion, company, platoon and squad command, as well as the VIS JAŚMIN on-board communication system.
Image source: topwar.ru
The Heron prototype weighing up to 22 tons has armor of the 3rd level according to STANAG 4569 (it can withstand the impact of armor-piercing bullets of 7.62 x 51 mm and 8 kg of explosives). The first prototype was produced in the Czech Republic, while the next machine, which is expected to be delivered by autumn, will already have Polish components.
Image source: topwar.ru
The TADEAS 6x6 armored vehicle, which served as the basis, accommodates two crew members and up to 11 paratroopers. Equipped with a Caterpillar engine, it can reach a maximum speed of 120 km/h, with a maximum range of 700 km. The load capacity reaches 10 tons.
The Tatra Force chassis serves as the basis for a wide range of equipment: for example, armored personnel carriers such as Autosan in Poland and Fahd 300 in Egypt; MRAP, including the Czech Vega; self-propelled howitzers, including CAESAR 8x8 and the Ukrainian 2S22 Bohdana; MLRS, in particular the Brazilian Astros II and the Czech RM-70 Vampire.
