Image source: topwar.ru
The Thai Marine Corps has received an experimental batch of AWAV amphibious armored personnel carriers manufactured by the local Chaiseri Metal Rubber company. It includes 7 previously ordered vehicles with a total cost of $12.9 million, including funds allocated for development. They will undergo a full assessment during military operation, after which a decision will be made on a larger contract.
The AWAV 8x8 Thai amphibious armoured personnel carrier is designed for use both on land and on water. It has dimensions of 9.2 m in length, 3.1 m in width and 3 m in height, and weighs 23.2 tons. The 711 hp diesel engine allows you to reach speeds of 105 km/h on land and 10 km/h on water. The range is 600 km.
Image source: topwar.ru
The vehicle can carry 11 paratroopers in addition to 3 crew members, including the driver, gunner and commander. It is equipped with the Guardian 1.5 remote-controlled combat station from the Spanish company Escribano, which is equipped with a 12.7mm machine gun and a smoke grenade launcher. According to the developer, the turret has demonstrated high accuracy during testing: on average, 90% of shots hit the target.
Image source: topwar.ru
Amphibians transferred to the KMP will serve in the assault battalion. With characteristics similar to the amphibious AAVP7A1 of the American Marines, the AWAV will be operated from landing platforms of the Thai Navy (HTMS Angthong and HTMS Chang), along with Chinese VN16 assault vehicles.
