[Yang Nak-gyu's Defence video] Hyundai Rotem Unveils Korea's First Self-Propelled River Crossing Equipment

[Asia Economy Reporter Yang Nak-gyu] Ahead of the first domestic self-propelled bridging equipment procurement battle of the new year, Hyundai Rotem has thrown down the gauntlet. The self-propelled bridging equipment, worth 500 billion KRW and to be contracted by the end of this year, is a combat support vehicle being introduced domestically for the first time. It is an essential support vehicle for maneuver units such as tanks and armored vehicles to cross rivers.

For the first domestic self-propelled bridging equipment introduction project, Hyundai Rotem plans to upgrade and localize the 'AAAB (Armored Amphibious Assault Bridge)', a self-propelled bridging equipment jointly developed by the UK’s BAE Systems and Turkey’s FNSS. Technical negotiations with the Turkish company have been completed.

The AAAB presented by Hyundai Rotem is an 8x8 wheeled vehicle with eight wheels.

The self-propelled bridging equipment developed this time is optimized for Korea’s mountainous terrain as it has twice the number of wheels compared to the 4x4 type overseas product 'M3'. Also, the short wheelbase makes it easier to pass through trenches, which are defensive facilities dug by the enemy. The wheels are equipped with run-flat tires that can operate even if punctured, and an additional Central Tire Inflation System (CTIS) that automatically adjusts tire pressure has been installed. In addition, special specifications and technologies suitable for military operation, such as bulletproof glass, automatic fire extinguishing system, and night vision equipment, have been applied.

A Hyundai Rotem official said, "We plan to optimize and manage the production schedule by utilizing the mass production infrastructure and know-how established while producing wheeled armored vehicles and bridge tanks, which have similar technology to self-propelled bridging equipment."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.