MRZR Buggy Polaris
Polaris picture
Designed for operations in the polar regions, Polaris has introduced its latest tracked light tactical vehicle that can be used in a variety of missions. Will the change in traction prove successful in working in the icy regions of the Arctic?
Solaris unveiled its latest model of polar vehicles at the Modern Day Marine Expo in Washington last week. Although the model shown of the vehicle did not have the targeted enclosed cabin, it did show a change in traction compared to previously produced vehicles. Polaris plans to reveal the full lineup at the Association of the American Army (AUSA) conference in October. Production of the target cars is expected to start early next year.
The “Arctic” group, as this car is indicated, is currently undergoing state validation tests, the decision on its serial production will be made at the beginning of next year. It has not been determined how many kits the USMC will purchase for its ATV fleet. Special Forces and all US branches of the armed forces are interested in increasing their operational capabilities in the Arctic. The Army published a strategy for operating in the region in 2021 and slowly analyzed what it would need to modernize and build effective operational units in the Arctic.
“Of course, improving the ability to move on the ice is the reason why customers want this ability, and wheeled vehicles handle such terrain worse” – said Nick Francis, Polaris Government and Defense Vice President in a recent interview. “But there are other types of transitional terrain or loose soil where tracked vehicles can help as well.”
“Vehicles of an exploratory nature”said Polaris Vice President, a “Having one vehicle that can be used for many different tasks is very important… If you can make one vehicle run well in the desert, quickly modify it in two to three hours, then make it run smoothly. In an arctic environment, You can do more with one resource, which dramatically reduces logistical burdens, operational loads, that kind of thing.”
said John Lavata, MRZR engineer at PolarisBecause the wheels are simply replaced with an adapter that allows for the installation of track assemblies. Another additional element, he added, prevents the track assemblies from rotating around their axis.
The MRZR LTV is used by the US Air Force, Special Forces and Ground Forces. The drive unit is a two-cylinder engine with 88 horsepower, the maximum speed of the car is about 100 km / h. It is not clear how fast the tracked car will go, but the speed will largely depend on road conditions. The LTV has a reconfigurable cargo section that can be used to transport cargo or two additional aft-facing seats. The vehicle can be flown by CH-47 Chinook helicopters or CV-22 Osprey convertibles. It can be used for many tasks, from reconnaissance to being a relay vehicle for drones.
