Armoured Security Vehicle
An ASV is a vehicle that has been built on the same platform as any other vehicle but comes with advanced security oriented features, such as bulletproof windows and windscreen. The body of the vehicle is layered with armoires for added protection. The ASV can be a military vehicle used to carry out operations in threat prone areas. They also feature advanced and high-tech weaponry, such as grenade launcher. M1117 ASV is one of the most widely known military ASV. It has been developed by Textron Marine & Land System and is being used by Military Police Corps of US Army. A number of nations have ordered by the M1117 ASV. An ASV may also be a civilian car for VIP personnel, such as President or other government officials, UN officials, etc. A lot many automakers, such as Mercedes Benz, Audi and BMW are now offering such high security cars. The German President is currently using an Armoured Mercedes Benz W220. Unlike military ASV, these armoured cars have same appearance as their normal variants.
Civilian ASVs: The Civilian armoured security cars are either manufactures as such in the factory, for example BMW High Security series, Lincoln Town Car BPS, Audi A6, etc. or are available as retrofitted versions. Getting a car retrofitted with the upgrades of an ASV can cost a fortune, nearly $100,000 or more and it takes about a few weeks time. These civilian armoured security cars come with a more sturdy and powerful engine, shock absorbers and brakes. However, because of the increased weight due to insertion of layers of armours, these vehicles have comparatively less service life.
Some other features incorporated in the civilian ASVs include an explosion resistant fuel tank, automatic fire extinguishers, remote starting of the car, run-flat tyres, a siren, pressure and temperature controlled tyres, PA system, etc. To offer protection against tear gas or poison gas attacks, the cabin of these vehicles can be sealed at which time it offers its own supply of air.
Military ASVs: The Military ASVs are very heavy. The M2 Bradley weighs 25 ton, Stryker ICV is nearly 20 ton while the famous M1117 is about 15 ton heavy. These vehicles generally offer 360° visibility. Some of the military armoured vehicles also come with a fully air conditioned crew compartment. The security features incorporated in the standard military armoured are designed to deal with IEDs, mines as well as small arms fire. They carry sturdy armours that can deflect grenades as well. These vehicles offer protection against biological and chemical attacks with the help of an incorporated gas particulate air filtration system. Some military armoured vehicles are prone of roll-over accidents. Some of the most common variants of the ASVs used by military include: Command & Control, Ambulance, Recovery Vehicle, Infantry Carrier Vehicle, Reconnaissance Surveillance & Target Acquisition.
Summary: Armoured Security Vehicles are perhaps one of the best ways to provided added security to high profile personnel who are often targeted as well as in military expeditions.
About the Author
Paul Westdyk is the author of this article and owner of Armor Trader, He offers different types of vehicles like armoured security vehicle, bullet proof car, armoured car for sale etc.
