BUFFEL

The Buffel was the first MRAP vehicle in the world and entered service in 1978. It was designed and built to deal with the damage caused by mines and ambushes, offering protection to both crew and passengers. The Mercedes Unimog truck was used as the basis vehicle, adding an armored compartment and completely modifying the driving cabin. The chassis rose enough from the ground for optimal protection against landmines, and the belly was built with its characteristic “V” shape to dilute the blast effect after an explosion. More than 2,000 Buffel served mainly in the South African army until 1995, when it was retired. Sri Lanka manufactured under license the Unicorn model, basically a copy of the Buffel, that still in service today.

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Información adicional

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Country of origin

South Africa

Builder

Council for Scientific and Industrial Research

Type

Mine resistant ambush protected vehicle – APC

Entered service

1978

Crew

1 crew member + 10 passengers

Combat weight

6,100 kg

Dimensions (length x width x height)

5.10 x 2.05 x 2.95 meters

Armour, (maximum)

Steel: against splinters and light firearms

Power plant

1 x Mercedes Benz OM352 diesel engine

Speed

95 km/h

Range

1,000 km

Armament

1 x 7.62mm or 1 x 12.7mm MG

Production

+ 2,000