SALH has tactical armoured vehicle

By Gillian Slade on June 1, 2018.

gslade@medicinehatnews.com  @MHNGillianSlade

The South Alberta Light Horse regiment has just taken delivery of a tactical armoured patrol vehicle at the armoury on Cuyler Road.

It is a replacement for older vehicles but is also part of a mission to have reserves train with the same equipment that regular forces do, said commanding officer Lt.- Col. Shawn Thirlwell. It is important for training.

“The army has been pushing for the integration, soldiers all having the same training,” said Thirlwell.

They need to be prepared and equipped in case it is ever needed, said Thirlwell.

Ultimately SALH will probably have four TAPVs.

TAPVs have been used already in other locations to help in flooded areas. It can be used as a command post to determine what kind of help is needed and provide immediate communication.

Master Cpl. Mike Hutchings says the TAPV’s cross-country capabilities are second to none and it is able to go through almost any terrain.

The TAPV typically uses a crew of four including a gunner, driver, commander and an observer.

The gunner operates a 7.62 co-axial machine gun and a 40 mm grenade launcher. Inside the vehicle the gunner has a screen/monitor providing him/her with all the visuals outside the vehicle, said Hutchings.

The driver has total control of the vehicle getting from one place to another. There is also a monitor/screen in front giving the driver a complete visual of the area around the outside of the TAPV, said Hutchings.

The commander has overall control of the vehicle, he said.

Each seat in the vehicle is equipped with a five-point harness, unlike former lap belts only. This helps to ensure the passengers are not thrown about in the vehicle or thrown outside of the vehicle if it should ever roll over.

The TAPV gives a surprisingly smooth ride.

For additional information regarding SALH and recruiting call 403-310-army.

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