Saurer 4K 4FA-G2: Austrian Underdog
Overview
Hello! Today we’re stepping back from my usual American suggestions, to now suggest a Austrian APC that I think would be fantastic ingame! This is the Austrian MK66SPz, or more well known simply by its manufacturer name, the 4K 4FA-G2!
Basic Information
Designation: 4K 4FA-G2 (Company), MK66SPz (Military)
Name: “MK66SPz Schützenpanzer/Maschinenkanone 66”
Role: Armored Personnel Carrier
Crew: 2 (Driver, Gunner/Commander)
Designer: Österreichische Saurer-Werke
Manufacturer: Österreichische Saurer-Werke
Total built: 445 Vehicles (76 MK66SPz Variant)
Designed: 1958 - 1958
Produced: 1961 - 1969
Specifications
Dimensions:
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Length: 5.4 m (17 ft 9 in)*
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Width: 2.5 m (8 ft 2 in)*
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Height: 2.1 m (6 ft 11 in)*
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Weight: 15 tons
Driving Performance:
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Engine(s):
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V6 Saurer 2P Diesel Engine
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250 hp (184 kW)
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Transmission:
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Synchro-mesh
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Manual
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6 forward
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1 reverse
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Suspension:
- Torsion Bar
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Max Speed:
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55 mph 65 km/h (40 mph) Forward*
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~10 km/h (6.2 mph) Reverse*
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Range:
- 370 km (230 mi) Standard*
Armor:
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Hull:
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Front: 20mm (0.79 in) of High Hardness Steel
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Sides: 8mm (0.31 in) of High Hardness Steel
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Armament:
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Main Gun:
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1x 20mm Oerlikon Contraves Model 204 GK Autocannon (Turret)
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-12°/+70° Elevation
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1,000 Rounds (100 Ready)
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1x 7.92mm MG3 Machine gun (Pintle mount near rear doors)
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-12°/+70° Elevation
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1,000 Rounds (100 Ready)
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Additional Equipment:
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Autoloader:
-
Smoke Grenade Launchers:
- 4 Smoke Grenade Launchers
Usage in Battles
The 4K 4FA-G2 is an intriguing addition to War Thunder’s line-up of armored personnel carriers. Equipped with a 20 mm Oerlikon Contraves cannon, it offers a unique blend of speed, maneuverability, and firepower that sets it apart from other vehicles in its class. Its ability to provide effective support on the battlefield, combined with its decent protection and versatility, makes it a valuable asset for any player looking to diversify their tactics and strengthen their team’s performance.
Pros:
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Excellent Speed and Maneuverability, Good for Quick Repositioning and Flanking Maneuvers
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The 20mm Oerlikon Contraves Autocannon provides good Rate of Fire and Penetration, capable of engaging light armored vehicles and aircraft.
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Smoke Grenade Launchers provide additional tactical options for covering advances and retreats
Cons:
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While it offers some protection, the 4K 4FA-G2’s armor is insufficient against heavy machine gun fire and larger calibers
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The main gun is not stabilized, which can make aiming and firing on the move challenging
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The absence of night vision devices and thermal imaging limits its effectiveness in low-visibility conditions
History
The Saurer 4K 4FA-G2 is an Austrian armored personnel carrier (APC) that was developed by Österreichische Saurer-Werke in Vienna, which later became part of Steyr-Daimler-Puch AG. The development of the 4K 4FA series began in the mid-1950s, with the first prototype, the 3K 3H, completed in 1958. The improved 4K 3H followed in 1959, and the final prototype, the 4K 4F, entered production in 1961.
The 4K 4FA-G2 variant, armed with a 20 mm Oerlikon Contraves cannon, was introduced as an infantry fighting vehicle (IFV) version. A total of 445 vehicles in various versions were produced for the Austrian Army by 1969. The 4K 4FA series was eventually replaced by the 4K 7FA model, which shared components with the SK-105 Kürassier light tank.
The 4K 4FA-G2 saw service with the Austrian Army and was also exported to countries like Bolivia, Greece, and Nigeria. In Greece, the vehicle was upgraded to the Leonidas II standard. The 4K 4FA series remained in service with Austria until it was gradually replaced by newer vehicles like the ASCOD Ulan infantry fighting vehicle in the early 2000s.
Technical Drawings & Data
- Yes
- No
- Tech Tree
- Premium
- Battle Pass
- Event
- Squadron
- Other (Please Explain)
- I said no
- 6.7
- 7.0
- 7.3
- 7.7
- 8.0
- Other (Please Explain)
- Again, No