MOWAG Eagle V Light Protected Vehicle (Switzerland)
Channel: Main Battle Tank
Date: 2023-01-17

The MOWAG Eagle V is a further development of the previous Eagle IV. It is available in 4x4 and 6x6 configurations. A 4x4 version was publicly revealed in 2010, while the 6x6 followed in 2012. The 6x6 version was mainly aimed at the Australian Army requirement. The Eagle V fits the gap between uparmored HMMWVs and larger mine resistant ambush protected vehicles. For some time the Eagle V was marketed alongside the older Eagle IV.

   In 2013 German Army ordered 176 Eagle V 4x4 protected command vehicles. In 2020 Germany ordered another 80 Eagle Vs with 6x6 configuration as armored ambulances. In 2017 Denmark ordered a total of 36 Eagle Vs in 4 different configurations, including patrol, reconnaissance, electronic warfare and support. These were planned to be delivered in 2018-2019. Swiss MoD ordered these vehicles only in 2019. A total of 100 Eagle Vs 6x6, configured as armored reconnaissance vehicles, were ordered for the Swiss military. In 2020 Swiss MoD ordered another 57 Eagle Vs for delivery in 2021-2022. A total of 56 units were configured as patrol vehicle and one was outfitted for reconnaissance roles.

   The new vehicle can carry more payload and has increased protection comparing with its predecessor. The Eagle V family has approximately 80% of commonality between 4x4 and 6x6 versions. Vehicle also uses components of the previous Eagle IV and DURO IIIP tactical truck. These versatile protected vehicles can be tailored to meet various mission requirements, such as utility, troop/cargo transport, patrol, reconnaissance, command and control, ambulance, observation and so on.

   The Eagle V is better protected than the previous Eagle IV. Add-on modular armor can be fitted for a higher level of protection. Modular armor is made of steel and composite material. It is claimed that the Eagle V has a MRAP class mine protection. Vehicle has a double V-shaped hull to minimize mine blast penetration. Interior is fitted with blast-absorbing seats.

   Vehicle can be fitted with remotely controlled weapon station for self-defense. It can be armed with 5.56 mm, 7.62 mm or 12.7 mm machine gun, or 40 mm automatic grenade launcher.

   The 4x4 version accommodates the driver and 3 to 5 troops. There is also a cargo version with a two-seater cab. It has payload capacity of 3.3 to 3.6 t. The 6x6 version accommodates the driver plus about 14 troops. It can carry 6.5 to 6.9 t of payload. The 6x6 version can carry standard NATO pallets.

   All MOWAG Eagle V vehicles, both 4x4 and 6x6 are powered by the same Cummins ISB 6.7 E3 245 turbocharged diesel engine, developing 245 hp. Despite that engine of the 6x6 delivers slightly more torque. Engine is mated to an Allison 5-speed automatic transmission. Vehicle has a full-time all-wheel drive. A central tyre inflation system is fitted as standard. A self-recovery winch is optional.

   The Eagle V can be airlifted by a CH-47 Chinook helicopter or C-130 Hercules tactical cargo