Arquus Trapper VT4 is a military personnel carrier that is capable of performing cargo transport, patrol, command, and liaison missions.
Developed by Arquus (formerly Renault Trucks Defense), Trapper VT4 is in service with the French Army in configurations of Standard 1 and 2.
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Trapper VT4 orders and deliveries
Arquus received an order to supply 500 Standard 1 VT4s to the French Army as part of the Scorpion programme in December 2016. The first batch of VT4 Standard 1 vehicles were handed over to the French Army for testing in September 2017.
The first four serial production vehicles were delivered to 8th Matériel Regiment of the French Army in October 2018, while the 500th Standard 1 VT4 was delivered in December 2018.
In December 2018, The French Defense Procurement Agency (DGA) signed a contract with Arquus for the delivery of 1,200 new Standard 2 vehicles. The contract also includes maintenance in operational condition (MCO) with a fixed-price support package, ensuring 95% technical-operational readiness for 14 years.
The first vehicle under the contract was delivered in April 2019. Arquus aims to deliver 800 vehicles by the end of 2019.
The French Army plans to induct 3,700 Arquus VT4 vehicles by 2025. The vehicles will replace the ageing Peugeot P4 off-road vehicle fleet, which has been operational with the French armed forces since 1983.
Trapper VT4 variants
VT4 is a mission-specific version of the Arquus Trapper, which was earlier a part of the second-generation Light Tactical Vehicle family developed by ACMAT, a subsidiary of Arquus Defense.
The VT4 Standard 1 configuration comes with a base package of the Standard 2 specifications, while the Standard 2 version is installed with a pre-equipment package allowing for the integration of modern communication systems and other mission-specific equipment required for overseas deployments.
The Standard 2 vehicle incorporates 350 new features along with advanced capabilities compared to Standard 1. The modern communication and positioning systems, additional racks, towing equipment, and blackout lights form part of the new package.
Trapper VT4 design and features
The Trapper multi-mission vehicle is based on the Ford Everest chassis. It features reinforced bumpers and military bull-bar protection. The robust hull of the vehicle complies with the NATO standards. The design combines the comfort of modern vehicles with the ruggedness of armoured vehicles.
The vehicle can carry five soldiers or four infantrymen equipped with the FELIN future infantry soldier fighting system. It features a sound-proof compartment fitted with an air-conditioning system and comfortable seating. The vehicle has a maximum gross weight of 3,500kg and features a large cargo space, which can accommodate up to 1,000kg payload.
Trapper VT4 also offers lower acquisition and operating costs.
Engine and mobility
The Trapper is equipped with a 160hp Euro 3-compliant diesel engine developing a high torque, which provides exceptional manoeuvring capability. The engine can burn low-quality fuel as it is equipped with a reinforced double gasoil filtration system.
It is also equipped with hill start assistance, descent control, anti-lock braking system (ABS), and electronic trajectory corrector (ESP).
The 4×4 vehicle has a maximum road speed of 142km/h and a cruising range of 900km. It offers high ground clearance and is also fitted with special off-road grip tires offering superior stability on all terrains. It can negotiate a gradient of 50% and side slope of 30% and can cross trenches of 0.5m width and vertical obstacles of 0.25m height.
The VT4 Standard 2 is air-transportable by C130, C160, and A400M military transport aircraft, which ensures quick deployment in remote areas during tactical missions.
