Old faithful set to retire

In with the new: Tprs Ryan Janus and Gerhard Hattingh, LCpl Gary Holyoake, Cpl James Benson and SSM WO2 Mark Cafe proudly stand with their current vehicle the M113 APC and the new IMV Bushmaster that will replace it.Photo by Cpl Rachel Ingram.

 

By Capt Al Green
Volume 11, No. 38, March 8, 2006

THERE’S a new “ride” on its way to the far north.
Later this year 3 Bde will be provided upgraded protected lift capability in the form of the Bushmaster Infantry Mobility Vehicle (IMV).

The vehicles will be introduced to B Sqn 3/4 Cav Regt by the end of the year, replacing the M113A1 that has served with the unit since its inception during the Vietnam War.

The Bushmaster represents an excellent combination of protection and mobility, and is highly deployable by land, sea and air. Crews also enjoy high levels of safety and comfort in a rugged vehicle, which operates over the most demanding terrain. The air-conditioned vehicle accommodates a fully equipped infantry section.

Soldiers at Lavarack Barracks were able to experience this for themselves recently when staff from Land 116 Project Bushranger demonstrated the vehicle’s capabilities to those who will work with the Bushmaster when it is introduced later this year.

And there’s plenty to be impressed about – the Bushmaster’s extended range, high cruising speed and comfortable crew cabin ensure that troops arrive at their objective in peak condition.

Successfully employed on current operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, the Bushmaster has lived up to expectations, attracting positive feedback from the crews that operate them.

The vehicle is being introduced into 3 Bde under the Hardened and Networked Army restructure.

While the M113A1 has served faithfully since Vietnam, the agile and highly protected Bushmaster is considered an ideal system to deliver protected mobility within 3 Bde, according to OC B Sqn 3/4 Cav Regt Maj Chris Kind.

“The soldiers of the Squadron are very much looking forward to the arrival of Bushmaster,” Maj Kind said.

“Very positive reports have filtered through the soldier network of its performance on operations and this has developed a sense of anticipation about the imminent arrival.

“The Bushmaster’s design characteristics are very applicable to the range of short notice operations that 3 Bde trains for.

It’s an easily deployable system which fits with the Brigade’s high-readiness requirements, while offering good mobility and protection for forces once deployed.