Plasan Sasa Launches the 'Caracal' Armored Patrol Vehicle at AUSA 2005
26 October 2005
Plasan Sasa joins forces with Manning Equipment to pioneer a new concept: armoring a commercial chassis cab and convert it into a cost-effective military vehicle for Low Intensity Conflict and homeland security applications.
Plasan Sasa, a global leader in the development and manufacture of combat-proven ballistic armored solutions, is exhibiting a new armored patrol vehicle built on a Ford commercial chasis cab – the 'Caracal' (lit. 'Desert Fox') at the AUSA 2005.
Armoring a commercial vehicle so that it can safely transport soldiers and operational personnel represents a new concept in ballistic armored solutions. This concept is leading the way for more cost-effective, flexible solutions for today's urban battlefield and homeland security arena.
The Caracal offers the highest level of armored protection possible, increasing the vehicle's overall survivability profile and optimally protecting drivers and passengers – including protection against all types of 7.62 AP ammo, mine protection and IED threats. With its large interior, the armored Caracal can also be used as a protected evacuation vehicle in emergency situations to safely transport the wounded.
Plasan developed the armor for this Ford commercial chassis cab, modified by Manning Equipment.
Significant cost savings
Plasan Sasa cooperated with Manning Equipment to convert this Ford 'off-the-shelf' chassis cab into an armored vehicle for military applications. Using a commercial platform means significant cost savings over traditional armored vehicles, manufactured from the bottom up for military application. In addition to its lower initial costs, spare parts and service can be provided globally, wherever Ford has a presence.
A new paradigm for armoring military vehicles
The Caracal is strong and robust, with a 325 horsepower engine, automatic transmission, excellent performance profile and road handling features. The Caracal is designed to maneuver in narrow spaces and dense urban environments. The extra weight of the armor protection does not in any way compromise the vehicle’s performance. With the new armor solution, it is an ideal cost-effective choice for Low Intensity Conflict, urban warfare and homeland security deployments.
