Brisbane, Australia, 23rd September, 2014, Supacat today launched a Beach Armoured Recovery Vehicle (BARV) concept based on its highly successful Launch and Recovery System (L&RS) in service with the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) in the UK.
The L&RS incorporates a number of unique and innovative designs including permanent software controlled track drive systems and an innovative and highly manoeuvrable steering system. It has a normal operating depth of 3 metres, however the complete system can be shut down and left submerged at a depth of 9 metres.
The high mounted cab provides excellent visibility and has capacity for three occupants. It features 180 degree swivel command seat and controls to maximise the utility of the platform.
The militarised BARV system incorporates a number of new features including forward and rear bumper arrangements, recovery and hauling winches and towing points. The way the platform is configured allows for a variety of attachments to be used on the front of the platform, such as blades and track layers. The integration of a crane onto the platform would allow the BARV to be self-reliant in changing attachments.
The modular design of the BARV also allow for applique armour to protect the occupants and critical systems.
Michael Halloran, Managing Director, Australia, said “The benefit of the Supacat BARV is that it is based on a modern, in-service platform. That means a proven performer with reduced through life costs and an existing support infrastructure for the vehicle.”
Nick Jones, Founder and Director, was one of the key figures in the original design of the L&RS. Nick said, “The size of the Supacat BARV also provides operational flexibility. Our design allows the BARVs to operate alone for the simple jobs, to be daisy chained for the big jobs or to work in tandem for the complex jobs.”