Recovery mechanics in Iraq and Afghanistan are set to benefit from new 32-tonne trucks with electronic recovery systems, cutting time spent working on the ground to a minimum.
General Support Vehicles Integrated Project Team (GSV IPT) is set to introduce a new 32-tonne truck with improved recovery capabilities later this summer. The new truck features an electronic recovery system designed to allow recovery mechanics to operate in a ‘mobile workshop’, spending more time in the armoured cab and less time on the ground. The new truck has a powerful 10.5l, 6 cylinder turbo diesel engine, which drives all eight wheels, as well as improved off-road capability, enabling troops to reach the recovery site rapidly while negotiating rugged terrain. The vehicle is fitted with appliqué armour packs to protect the crew from ballistic and blast threat, and includes a Bowman radio.

“The truck has an immensely strong lifting capacity,” says GSV IPT team leader Alison Henry. “With a crane that can lift 13 tonnes and tow a 44-tonne vehicle, it can recover our heaviest wheeled casualties.”
The new 32-tonne trucks have been developed in conjunction with MAN Truck & Bus, and form part of the MoD’s £1.3bn Support Vehicle Programme. 288 of the new recovery vehicles will be despatched to Iraq and Afghanistan, with 69 recovery trailers. They replace the three current Foden fleet vehicles.
“This milestone represents a significant achievement and is further evidence of the success of our Support Vehicle Programme in delivering 7285 specialist support vehicles to our Armed Forces,” comments Minister for Defence Equipment and Support Unit, Baroness Ann Taylor.