- Yes
- No
Spoiler
Introduction:
During the 2006 African Aerospace and Defence expo (AAD), BAE Land Systems OMC unveiled the iKlwa fitted with the unmanned turret developed by South African defence firm IST dynamics which formed part of BAE Land Systems OMC at the time. The iKlwa was promoted as an upgrade for the Ratel which featured a new powerpack and modified hull. The new engine which is fitted to the iKlwa is the turbocharged Cummins ISL mounted towards the front left, providing more room for the troops and increased performance. The hull of the iKlwa also featured a new hydraulicly operated rear door which allowed troops to enter the vehicle from the rear. The unmanned turret fitted on the iKlwa at the time featured a 30mm cannon, ZT3 ATGM launcher, 40mm grenade launcher and a 7.62mm MG. The unmanned turret also made use of thermal imaging sights, laser range finder and target tracking. Sadly, the SANDF (South African National Defence Force) never adopted the iKlwa due to a Ratel replacement program “Project Hoefyster” already being implemented, with the Badger ultimately being chosen as the Ratel replacement.
Spoiler
Specifications:
Main Armament: one 30mm cannon, three ZT3 ATGM’s
Secondary armament: one 40mm grenade launcher, one 7.62mm machine gun
Engine: Cummins ISL turbocharged
Horsepower: 450hp (336kW)
Top Speed: 110km/h
Transmission: RENK HSV106 (6-speed automatic)
Weight: 23,5t
Crew: 3 (commander, gunner, driver)
Smoke grenades: Yes
Thermal sights: Yes
Laser range finder: Yes
Primary Sources:
Ratel “The Making of a Legend” Volume 1, written by Roland De Vries, Jan Ehlert, William Haddad, Johan Nel, Tony Savides (Page 522-524)
BAE Land systems OMC (iKlwa) brochure
Secondary Sources:
Army Guide (iKlwa): Army Guide
TrucksPlanet (iKlwa): BAE Systems Iklwa (Military vehicles) - Trucksplanet