Rooikat 105 (1992)

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Rooikat 105 1992

Introduction

The Rooikat is a South African armoured reconnaissance vehicle developed in the 1970s and 80s to replace the aging Eland armoured cars. Development commenced around 1976, with prototypes delivered for testing in 1979. The initial design featured an 8×8 configuration and was equipped with a turret mounting a 77mm Mk2 gun taken from retired Comet tanks. Emphasis was placed on firepower, protection, and mobility, aiming to fulfill roles such as reconnaissance, anti-armour, and infantry support.

In 1987, the final prototype of the Rooikat 76 was ready, and it was accepted into service in 1989. This variant was equipped with a 76mm high-velocity naval cannon. Approximately 240 units were built, with about 30 remaining in service with the South African National Defence Force (SANDF). The Rooikat 76 was well-regarded for exceptional mobility and good armament, and was exceptionally ahead of its time when compared to contemporary armoured cars.

In 1990, Reumech OMC initiated an upgrade and redesign program to customize the Rooikat for the international market. By 1992, the development of the Rooikat 105 variant was completed, featuring a 105mm rifled gun. This upgrade allowed it to fire a full range of NATO-standard 105mm ammunition.

The variant discussed here is the Rooikat 105 as exhibited in 1992, the earliest model. The only notable difference between this and the Rooikat 105 currently in game is the lack of the Commanders Independent Panoramic Night Vision sight. This means it would have marginally worse performance than the premium version, but overall it would be functionally identical and would be and opportunity to get a Rooikat 105 in the tech tree.

Specifications

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Images

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rooikat105 DEXSA 1992
Rooikat 105 at DEXSA 1992

Rooikat 105 1992 2

Rooikat 105 without commanders sight (left) and with (right). The version with the commanders sight is the one currently in-game.

Sources

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Surviving The Ride, Steve Camp & Helmoed Romer Heitman, 2014

Denel/LIW Rooikat 105 Brochure

LIW/OMC Rooikat 105 Brochure

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+1 Would be nice to have a non-premium Rooikat backup to the MTTD.

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