What Is the Multi-Role Pod Tracked (mPODt) Concept?
AVST Ltd have developed the first modular armoured vehicle with a common tracked chassis and interchangeable mission pods. In petitioning AVST Ltd to upgrade from a Perkins to a Cummins engine, our area of diesel engine expertise, Foxwood Diesel is proud to report on the unique capabilities of the Multi-Role Pod Tracked (mPODt) and the UK military armoured vehicle advancements the concept represents.
Leading the Charge for Modular Armoured Vehicles
Simply put, the Multi-Role Pod Tracked (mPODt) is a new armoured vehicle concept for use in military and civilian security markets.
‘Multi-role’ relates to the vehicle’s suitability as a personnel carrier, a protected ambulance, and a platform for command and control, security and weapons, surveillance, engineering, and fuel or water transportation. The list of possible functions is virtually endless.
In the context of armoured vehicles, a ‘pod’ refers to a modular, detachable, interchangeable unit that allows a single vehicle chassis to be quickly reconfigured for different roles in the field.
Lastly, the mPODt moves on continuous ‘tracks’ rather than conventional wheels, designed to distribute the weight of the armoured vehicle over a large surface area and enable traversal over uneven terrain without tipping or sinking.
Use as a Military Armoured Vehicle
The mPODt combines tried-and-tested equipment with innovative engineering, such that the use of the vehicle is entirely determined by the role of the pod. The following characteristics help the design stand out from the crowd:
- Uses a common tracked chassis for universal application, making it compatible with any number of in-service vehicles
- Uses an integral fuel cell power supply to keep mission-essential equipment working, so that pods can operate independently when dumped as static stores
- Doesn’t compromise on mobility, firepower or protection, unlike traditional armoured vehicle designs
- Mission-essential equipment is easier to use due to the air gap between the pod and the hull
The multi-role pod design is universally applicable in the field and offers infinite flexibility for small-force deployments. Ultimately, the mPODt appears to be a highly cost-effective way to expand a tracked armoured vehicle fleet.
“Armoured vehicle requirements over the next decade will centre around being modular, mobile and adaptable. The demand for light armoured vehicles will outstrip all other variants, meaning the supply chain and end-user must traverse the delicate balance between protection and manoeuvrability during this age of economic austerity.”
Armoured Vehicles 2012 Industry Report – Defence iQ
Providing a New Approach to Diesel Engine Design
Foxwood Diesel is greatly interested in the mPODt design and would like to propose upgrading the new diesel engine design from a Perkins to a Cummins. We have gone so far as to officially sponsor the concept and pitch the change to AVST Ltd. While Perkins engines excel in fuel efficiency, Cummins technology offers superior power, durability and reliability. As diesel engine experts, we foresee the need for high torque and long service life under demanding conditions, such as those encountered by a military armoured vehicle in the field.
Support Progress with Military Armoured Vehicles
Within the automotive industry, there has been much talk over the years of producing a modular armoured vehicle concept. The Swedish SEPs and German Boxter programmes came close, but failed to achieve true universal pod interchangeability.
The first prototype is available to see at the Defence and Security Equipment International (DSEI) exhibition, 10–13 September 2013. The mPODt team at AVST Ltd are actively seeking manufacturing partners and expressions of interest.
Visit our blog for more industry news or browse our services to learn more about our diesel engine expertise. Contact us with any questions about the mPODt, including how you can help Foxwood Diesel to take the concept forward.
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