Following a study of the Iveco Multirole Light Vehicle (MLV) Alvis has signed an agreement with Iveco Defence Vehicles to offer MLV (together with Alvis Scarab) for the UK MoD Future Command and Liaison Vehicle (FCLV) requirement.
MLV is also being developed for the Italian Army in both armoured and unarmoured variants. The armoured MLV is particularly well-matched for the FCLV role.
With a length just under 5000mm and weighing 6500kg, MLV is readily air-transportable in EH101 and CH47 (2 vehicles) and C-130 (2 vehicles), thus ensuring rapid deployment into any operational theatre. MLV's engine is the Euro 3, Iveco F1 D 185 BHP; the vehicle has automatic transmission, hydrosteering, off-road ABS, central tyre inflation system, independent suspension and, following brief preparation, can ford depths of 1.5m. All of these attributes combine to give MLV exceptional versatility and mobility in all terrain.
Armoured protection kits include underbelly mine protection, additional anti-tank mine protection under wheel arches, 360° protection against 7.62mm AP attack and protection against 155mm fragments.
Because of FCLV's broadly defined requirement Alvis is offering two purpose-built vehicles. Scarab, which is a fully armoured vehicle offering high levels of protection for the whole vehicle. MLV provides protection for the vital crew area, whilst offering a highly cost-effective solution that utilises many commercial components.
Alvis plc is listed on the London Stock Exchange and is involved with the design and production of armoured fighting vehicles and other specialist military vehicles. The Alvis Group turnover in 2000 was £204 million.
