LAV III
Type: Armored Personnel Carrier
Domain: land
Country of Origin: United States
Manufacturer: General Dynamics
Overview
Canadian 8x8 wheeled armored personnel carrier providing New Zealand Army with mechanized capability. New Zealand procured 105 LAV III (designated NZLAV) early 2000s for protected mobility and fire support. Features 25mm Bushmaster chain gun, 7.62mm coaxial, capacity for infantry section, amphibious capability. Combat experience in Afghanistan demonstrating effectiveness and protection. Equips Queen Alexandra's Mounted Rifles providing New Zealand's primary armored capability. Represents practical New Zealand approach emphasizing deployability and versatility over heavy armor. Ongoing upgrades maintain relevance. Critical for New Zealand deployments and training with Australian partners who operate similar LAV 6.0.
Technical Specifications
| crew | 3 + 6-8 troops |
|---|---|
| armor | Aluminum + applique steel |
| engine | Caterpillar 3126 diesel, 350 hp |
| width_m | 2.5 |
| armament | 25mm M242 Bushmaster + C9 7.62mm |
| height_m | 2.69 |
| length_m | 6.98 |
| range_km | 600 |
| max_speed_kmh | 100 |
| weight_tonnes | 17 |
Operators
- Canada
- Colombia
- Colombia (Ejército Nacional de Colombia)
- New Zealand
- Saudi Arabia
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