THE New Zealand Army project of replacing its aging fleet of M113A1 APCs began recently with the first seven of 105 LAV III arriving from Canada.

The LAV III, similar to the ASLAV, is capable of air deployment from C130H, and will greatly enhance the mobility of the NZ Army. The LAV III differs from the ASLAV in several areas. LAV III has a greater payload of 3.3t, compared to ASLAV's 1.5t.

The Kiwi LAV III offers greater protection to passengers and crew.

The LAV III has the ability to only ford rivers up to 1.5m deep, whereas the ASLAV can cross inland water obstacles when current, wind and entry/exit points are suitable.

The LAV III is purpose built to routinely carry seven passengers, with kit, and the ability to occasionally carry one additional passenger, whereas the ASLAV fitted with the same upgraded 25mm cannon turret only carries four passengers with equipment.

Once all vehicles have been delivered, two LAV III regiments will be established, both regiments capable of lifting an infantry battalion and provide direct fire support in combat.

The acquisition project should be completed with all units operational by December 2005, and is the largest acquisition project since the 1970s.

New Zealand currently has air assets and troops in Afghanistan providing security and peace operations as part of the NZ government's commitment to the War on Terror.

Additionally, NZ engineers, signallers and combat support troops have deployed to Iraq to assist in the reconstruction of the country after its seizure by US/UK/Australian forces.

The NZ forces in Iraq will be armed but are restricted to humanitarian aid, reconstruction and rehabilitation tasks.

- New Zealand Army News, www.mil.nz

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