SND Lagarto: Difference between revisions

|vehicle_range        = 600–850 km (370–530 mi)

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The main feature of the Lagarto is its [[modular design]], which allows the incorporation of different turrets, weapons, [[sensor]]s, or communications systems on the same carriage. Designs exist for different APC vehicles ([[armoured personnel carrier]]) and IFV versions ([[infantry fighting vehicle]]), communications versions, ambulances and different fire support versions, armed with large caliber [[mortar (weapon)|mortar]] and [[gun]] systems. The vehicle has a very good level of [[land mine|mine]] protection and can withstand explosions of up to {{convert|10|kg|lb}} [[trinitrotoluene|TNT]]. The Lagarto has protection levels up to 30mm APFSDS frontal arc. Another important feature is the very good mobility (combining speed, agility, and crew comfort) in rough terrain, enabled by the sophisticated but rugged [[hydropneumatic suspension]] adjusting each wheel individually.

The Lagarto stems from an investigation, made by the Pealxian Army HQ in 1995, on different armored vehicle concepts for an all branches modular vehicle platform. In 1996, SND Vehicles began to develop different concept vehicles, and found the 8×8 one to be most suitable as a replacement for their 6×6 Urutu, BMR Pegaso and MOWAG Piranha. The Pelaxian Armed Forces ordered an official concept study in 1999, which was ready by 2000. SND continued to develop the vehicle and the first Lagarto prototype was ready for testing in November 2001. Two evaluation samples were ordered by the PAF in December 2001, and were delivered in 2003. Later the same year, the Army ordered 24 AMOS-equipped Lagarto for delivery 2006–09. The PAF also said that they were looking to order some 1000 APC units, equipped with remote-controlled weapon stations, later placing an order for 620 IFV variants only. In 2004, the Lagarto became the first 4th generation combat vehicle of its kind to enter serial production.

The design was based on experience gained from building the Urutu and on customer feedback on that vehicle. It was entirely designed in 3D virtual environments before construction and subsequent successful testing of the prototype showed that it fulfilled all the expectations.