Protolab introduces new PMPV variants

Thu, 10 Jun 2021 08:23:50 +0200

Protolab introduces two new 6x6 Protected Multi-Purpose Vehicle (PMPV) variants

VANTAA, FINLAND, 7 June 2021: Protolab Oy has introduced two newly upgraded variants of the 6x6 Protected Multi-Purpose Vehicle (PMPV) Armoured Personnel Carrier (APC), the PMPV 2 and PMPV 3.

The new variants have been developed based on user feedback and are ready to meet the requirements of Finland’s upcoming domestic 6x6 APC procurement programme. This programme is expected to begin when competitor participating vehicles complete R&D and market surveys have been concluded.

Protolab is also pursuing international APC programmes with the variants, under both direct commercial sale and technical cooperation/technology transfer agreements; and is currently awaiting results and feedback from a number of ongoing programmes.

The variants maintain the original vehicle’s highest possible integrated mine protection and ballistic protection levels, with testing verifying the chassis’ ability to withstand at least five mine detonations, exceeding the highest requirements of STANAG 4569.

“The results of the mine blast testing, carried out by an independent, internationally recognised test body, are outstanding,” Juhani Kivimaki, Chief Technical Officer, Protolab, said. “Typically a vehicle must survive the single required kinetic blast to achieve the highest STANAG rating, whereas we put a single PMPV chassis through five blasts – one of which was double the required explosive mass; and still ended up with a vehicle that could be repaired for service.

“We understand that this is an extremely significant achievement, and will be a major drawcard for military forces seeking the very highest protection levels for their troops in the field.”

The new versions incorporate higher engine power ratings to provide better performance in both on-road and off-road conditions.

The PMPV 2 is powered by a 325 hp diesel engine, while the PMPV 3 can be fitted with either a 360 hp or 450 hp diesel engine. The vehicle cooling system has been updated to meet the requirements of both new engine versions, redirecting cooling air to assist in making the cabin more comfortable for crew in hot operating conditions. Both versions use Allison transmission, Katsa 2-speed transfer box and basic axles including steering rear axle to maximise cost-efficiency, agility and durability, and to simplify maintenance.

The PMPV can carry two crew and ten fully-equipped troops, or a cargo payload of up to 10,000kg. Improvements to the crew compartment include a re-designed layout to enhance passenger comfort and space for equipment, increased room for C4I equipment, and improved options for reconfiguring the vehicle for different operational profiles, such as command and control, troop carrier or medevac.

In the standard APC crew transport configuration three different seating versions are available: a suspended seat with a 5-point seat belt which is used also as the driver and commander seats in all vehicles, a fixed seat with 2-point lap belt which has proven to extremely efficient and sturdy in use, and a new compact seating system with a 2-point lap belt. Crew entrance and egress has also been improved, and the locking system of hatches throughout the vehicles has been redesigned for easier use.

“The PMPV’s narrow (2.55m) width, steering rear axle, unique protective structure and advanced mobility both on- and off-road have been designed to provide superior capability in the urban environment for the range of tasks faced by special operations, security and crisis management forces in the field,” Juha Moisio, Business Development Director, Protolab Oy commented. “We have introduced these two new variants in direct response to market feedback, and anticipate significant interest from the international APC market from customers looking to replace their existing 6x6 vehicle fleets with a cost-effective, protected and highly mobile solution.”

About Protolab Oy

Protolab specialises in the design, development and delivery of vehicles with high-level, integrated blast and ballistic protection. With a strong design capability, Protolab supports the entire vehicle development cycle, from the initial design through to prototypes and production. Protolab works with a network of key suppliers across Finland and Europe, acting as the design authority, integrator, testing and approval centre, and prime contractor for its customers.

For further information please visit: https://www.protolab.fi

Media contact

For more information, more imagery (including hi-res) or to arrange an interview with a Protolab spokesperson, please contact:

Claire Apthorp

claire@thatwordbird.com

+44 (0) 7920403068

Finnish Defence Forces receive first PMPV

Wed, 26 Jun 2019 12:05:00 +0200

Protolab Oy is pleased to announce the delivery of the first Protolab 6x6 Protected Multi-Purpose Vehicles (PMPV) to the Finnish Defence Forces (FDF). Protolab is delivering four PMPVs to the FDF under a contract signed in 2018. The vehicles are being put through operational testing by the FDF as part of a wider modernisation programme to upgrade and enhance its armoured vehicle fleet.

The Protolab PMPV is exceptionally manoeuvrable and agile and can perform a range of mission roles including patrol, passenger and cargo transport, and command post. Amphibious and MEDIVAC variants are also available. The Protolab PMPV is a first of its kind 6x6 armoured personnel carrier developed to meet the mobility, protection and communication requirements of Special Operations Forces and paramilitary security forces.

The PMPV is designed from the ground up with integrated high level mine protection and ballistic protection according to customer-specified blast protection levels of STANAG 4569. The vehicle can be equipped with various customer required weapon systems.

The vehicle can carry two crew and ten fully-equipped troops, or a cargo payload of up to 10,000kg. Narrower than standard fighting vehicles, the vehicle’s 2.55m width makes it suitable for urban operations, with advanced mobility both on and off-road. Powered by a Cummins 6.7l multifuel engine and meeting Euro 3 emission levels, the vehicle meets EU truck road regulations qualifying it for registration as a N3G class truck (off-road).

These design features make it an ideal fit for the challenges being faced by modern armies.

“We designed the Protolab PMPV 6x6 to meet the requirements of today’s soldier and today’s asymmetric battlefield,” Juha Moisio, Business Development Director, Protolab Oy commented. “With a design approach based around the use of COTS parts with a small proportion of custom-made components, the Protolab PMPV is a cost-effective solution for the range of tasks faced by special operations, security and crisis management forces in the field.

“We are pleased to see the vehicle progressing well through field trials with the FDF and are getting positive feedback from the customer. We are confident that the Protolab PMPV will become the vehicle of choice for customers looking to replace their existing 6x6 vehicle fleets with a modern, protected and flexible solution.”

About Protolab Oy
Protolab specialises in the design, development and delivery of vehicles with high-level, integrated blast and ballistic protection. With a strong design capability, Protolab supports the entire vehicle development cycle, from the initial design through to prototypes and production. Protolab works with a network of key suppliers across Finland and Europe, acting as the design authority, integrator, testing and approval centre, and prime contractor for its customers.

Media contact
For more information, more imagery (including hi-res) or to arrange an interview with a Protolab spokesperson, please contact:

Claire Apthorp

+44 (0) 79 2040 3068

Protolab - Press releases

Protolab introduces new PMPV variants

Protolab introduces two new 6x6 Protected Multi-Purpose Vehicle (PMPV) variants

About Protolab Oy

Media contact

Finnish Defence Forces receive first PMPV