WiSENT 1 Multi-Purpose Armoured Vehicle

The WiSENT 1 multi-functional platform was developed by FFG to flexibly, cost-effectively, efficiently and economically support the Leopard 2 main battle tank and other vehicles in armies around the world. The WiSENT 1 is an adaptable armoured vehicle system that meets all user requirements. In addition to the improved hydraulic system that provides maximum hydraulic power in any situation, the customer can also choose other upgrade options, such as the hydro gas suspension system, the 960 hp power package or air conditioning.

Protection

Ballistic protection by NATO STANAG 4569 Level 5 and Level 3 protection against mines provides the best possible safety for the crew in crisis areas. The option to include add-on armour modules enables a mission-dependent safety configuration. The standard fire extinguishing system ensures greater safety during operations. In addition, the WiSENT 1 is designed to accommodate a dedicated camera system as well as an overhead weapon station. A roof-mounted storage box can carry special tools and other equipment for immediate use.

Successful in the field

The WiSENT 1 is successfully in service with several nations. In summary, the WiSENT 1 multi-functional platform includes many features to meet all requirements on and off the battlefield. The WiSENT 1 is a typical example of a practical and efficient innovation to improve an armoured vehicle fleet.

The MC in the WiSENT 1 MC stands for "mine clearing", and the WiSENT 1 is the name of the multi-functional platform this system is based on. The platform, in turn, was developed by FFG from the Leopard 1 tank "to flexibly, cost-effectively, efficiently and economically support the Leopard 2 main battle tank and other vehicles," as stated by FFG.

The vehicle has a high level of protection to keep the crew safe as it fulfils dangerous tasks: the ballistic protection is of NATO STANAG 4569 Level 5, and mine protection is of Level 3 according to the standard.

The WiSENT 1 vehicles are 8.2m long, 3.46m wide and 2.95m high. Weighing 44.5t, the multi-functional platform offers high mobility in every situation with an option to include add-on-armour modules.

Weighing approximately 54t, the WiSENT 1 ARV can conveniently transport a Leopard 2 spare power pack on its top deck. It is powered by a robust 960PS engine, enabling it to achieve speeds of more than 65km/h.

The Combat Recovery System (CRS®) supports recovery operations, allowing the crew to recover vehicles while shielded by the armoured protection of the WiSENT 1. The specialised camera system fitted within the CRS ensures speedy and secure recovery.

WiSENT 1 armoured engineer vehicle (AEV) details

It is also equipped with mine and ballistic protection systems, an upgraded power pack, a hydraulic tools interface and a flexible hydro gas suspension system characteristic of the MVP WiSENT 1 system family.

The first two upgraded vehicles were delivered to the Danish Ministry of Defence Acquisition and Logistics Organisation (DALO) in 2022. The remaining fleet will be upgraded by 2023.

The Wisent 1 ARV is a medium, fully tracked, armoured vehicle, that performs towing, hoisting, and winching operations in the rescue and recovery of combat vehicles along with limited combat engineering capability.

Beginning with Steel Beasts Professional version 4.000, all vehicles may tow other vehicles of equal or lesser weight, but the Wisent ARV and M88A1 MRV are unique in that they may tow all vehicles regardless of weight. Refer to the M88A1 MRV entry for further information on vehicle recovery with the Wisent. In addition to towing, this vehicle can also perform expedited repairs to other damaged vehicles. Such repairs can be accomplished by moving close (75m) to the unit which requires aid and then waiting. Repairs will automatically commence within a couple of minutes.