Fv432

[marktigger]

I know there is a rumoured upgrade program. Anyone any details of this? But have heard rumours the Army medical services are pushing for a New armoured Ambulance Fleet to replace the FV432 and the SAXON ambulances.
Anyone any FACTS?

[Royal]

FRES is still in its initial assessment phase - and I can't find anything credible on possible in service dates.

I can't see the MoD spending much with FCLV and FRES in the pipeline - I could be wrong though.

I did hear that there are thoughts about a proper ambulance, mortar waggon and ATGW waggon when Warrior gets it's next upgrade - if there are spare chasis left over from the drawdown in Germany - but that was just mess chat...

[RecceGuy]

Was talking to a mate of mine at LASS IPT about this about a month ago. Apparently the upgrade is going ahead, about 500 vehicles are due to be upgraded at a cost of £80 million. It's due for a new engine, transmission and suspension system. Steering will now be by a warrior style steering wheel instead of the old sticks and braking will be using a proper pedal instead of pulling on said sticks. He says the trials wagon done by BAE was the dogs bollocks loads of accelaeration and go and was more than capable of keeping up with warriors!! Well I'll believe it when i see it. Anyway doesn't affect me 'cos we use CVR(T) and we desperately need money spending on that.

[marktigger]

rumour id heard was Pirhana III or IV 8x8's as the Ambi but not confirmed.