At the Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD) 2024 exhibition, South African company DCD Protected Mobility unveiled an exciting new variant of its Springbuck Standard Duty (SD) Multipurpose Armored Vehicle (MPAV), known as the Double Cab. This innovative vehicle is designed to integrate seamlessly with various weapon systems, and at the exhibition, it was showcased with the Alkar 120mm mortar system from Turkish defense giant Aselsan.
The Alkar 120mm Mortar System
The Alkar 120mm mortar system is a versatile and powerful addition to the Springbuck SD. Compatible with all types of mortar ammunition, this self-propelled mortar boasts an effective range of up to 8,000 meters. It features rapid firing capabilities and advanced targeting systems, ensuring precise engagement of targets. The Alkar mortar can operate in both automatic and manual modes, with an automatic barrel laying system, automatic ammunition loading system, recoil mitigation system, and a fire control system that can be integrated with target detection radar and other sensors. Impressively, it can rotate 360 degrees to bear on its target and can fire its first round in less than a minute.
Versatility and Protection
The new Springbuck SD single cab and double cab variants are designed to accommodate multiple weapon options, including 14.5 and 23 mm cannons, as well as 60, 80, and 120 mm mortars. Unlike unarmoured ‘technicals’ fitted with weapons on the back, the Springbuck offers mine and ballistic protection, capable of withstanding blasts equivalent to 8 kg of TNT (STANAG 4569 Level 3A and 3B). The double cab variant is particularly noteworthy for its ability to accommodate weapon crews under armour, providing enhanced protection and operational efficiency.
In July last year, DCD Protected Mobility launched the new weapons platform vehicle at its fourth military Attache and advisory corps (MAAC) demonstration day. According to DCD officials, the new Springbuck is capable of carrying 14.5mm cannons or 60 or 80 mm mortars, however, at Paardefontein it was fitted with a ZSU-23-2 cannon.
Tailored for the African Market
DCD Protected Mobility has designed the Springbuck with simplicity, comfort, protection, and cost-effectiveness in mind, specifically targeting the African market. The Springbuck SD is the standard version, while the HD (Heavy Duty) and XD (Xtra Duty) models offer increased performance, payload, and protection. The 4×4 SD variant features B6 ballistic protection (up to 7.62×51 mm rounds) and can withstand a TM57 landmine directly under the hull or two under any wheel. It is powered by a MWM 6.10T 6.45 litre six-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine delivering 194 hp.
DCD Protected Mobility has sold its Springbuck and Husky vehicles to African militaries, including Angola, Burundi, Congo Brazzaville, Egypt, Jordan, Kenya, Senegal, Nigeria and South Africa.
Enhanced Capabilities with HD and XD Models
The intermediate Springbuck HD is powered by a MWM 6.12TCA 7.2 litre six-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine, delivering 286 horsepower and a maximum speed of 110 km/h with a range of 600 km. This 13,000 kg vehicle has a payload of 2,500 kg and B7 ballistic protection (up to 30.06 armour-piercing rounds). The heaviest in the range, the Springbuck XD, weighs 15,000 kg and has a payload of 3,500 kg. It carries two crew members and eight personnel, with entry and egress via two side doors, a rear door, and two roof hatches. The XD model offers ballistic protection upgradeable to STANAG Level 3 and blast protection under the hull certified to STANAG Level 4a.
Multiple Configurations
The Springbuck is available in various configurations, including ambulance, command and control, explosive ordnance disposal, and border patrol. This versatility makes it a valuable asset for a wide range of military and security operations.