Military

M113A3+/M113A4 Hazardous Materials Recovery Vehicle (HAZMAT)

As M113 FOV carriers become excess in the military system a number of conversion options are being considered for asset utilization. United Defense L.P., working with NASA/AMES, has developed the Hazardous Materials Recovery Vehicle (HAZMAT), as one such use for these excess assets. The HAZMAT vehicle utilizes a Stretch M577A3 hull structure incorporating a light dozer blade and a hydraulic manipulator arm. The vehicle provides a versatile chassis for hazardous material recovery operations. The HAZMAT has been designed to retain the air transportability features of the M113 FOV, with C-139 roll-on/roll-off capability. In addition the HAZMAT is being designed to include an over-pressure closed circuit life support system, radiation shielding, a HAZMAT suit docking feature, and a high visibility chemical agent resistant finish. The HAZMAT retains the M113 FOV mobility characteristics to support recovery operations in all terrains.