British Army receives new Terrier vehicle
Above:
The Terrier demonstrates its digging capability on the Bovington training area.
Picture: Andrew Linnett, Crown copyright
The armoured digger gives the Royal Engineers a state-of-the-art capability that can be used to carry out a variety of tasks both in the UK and on future operations.
Despite weighing 30 tonnes, Terrier is an agile and versatile piece of equipment that can reach speeds of almost 50 miles per hour. It is fitted with 5 on-board cameras and thermal imaging technology, providing soldiers with a 360-degree surveillance capability that can be used day and night.
The technology used in Terrier is so advanced that the vehicle can be operated by remote control, enabling soldiers to clear routes from a safe distance.
Able to transport up to 5,000 kilograms of material, Terrier has a range of interchangeable equipment such as a forklift and rock hammer that makes it highly adaptable. The vehicle can also be equipped with a 7.62 millimetre general purpose machine gun and smoke grenade launchers for use in combat.
The Army will receive 60 Terriers as part of a £360 million project with BAE Systems, who have designed and built the vehicle in the UK.
Warrant Officer Steve Cahill, Royal Engineers, who has trialled Terrier, said: “The Terrier is a world-leading engineer support and combat vehicle which can dig holes, lift objects and drill into the ground or shatter concrete. All whilst being controlled remotely and providing armoured protection, top cover and smoke shields for our troops.
“Very much in line with the ethos of the Corps of Royal Engineers, Terrier is a versatile vehicle capable of taking on a variety of tasks.”
The head of the British Army, Chief of the General Staff General Sir Peter Wall, said: “The Terrier armoured digger is excellent news for the Army. Its versatility will pay huge dividends on the battlefields of the future. We could not be happier with this new armoured engineer capability.”
Minister for Defence Equipment, Support and Technology Philip Dunne said: “The Terrier vehicle is a great example of the contribution that the British defence industry makes to our Armed Forces. Designed and built in the UK by BAE Systems, it will provide technological advances for our troops with a more robust and versatile engineering capability.”
