More on the Badger MRAP

In an earlier post I posed the question--without answering it--what is the difference between the Force Protection Cougar and the Badger variant used by Iraq's armed forces?

As it turns out, the Badger version of the Cougar features modifications performed by BAE, maker of the RG-31 and RG-33 MRAPs.

This push for mine-resistant vehicles has resulted in almost as much switching of partners as a square-dance.

Whirl, whirl, twist and twirl
Jump all around like a flyin' squirrel
Now don't you cuss and don't you swear
Just come right out and form a squaaaaaaaare.
(Bugs Bunny)

Britain has the 'Mastiff' Cougar variant. And the Iraqis? While up-armored Hummers are a big upgrade over the Ford commercial pickups some units were using, they knew that they, too, needed a mine-resistant vehicle that could perform patrols in urban areas and along their country's roads.

Their choice featured a familiar vehicle base – but an unfamiliar partnership. While the design is based on Force Protection Inc's v-hulled Cougar that has earned such praise from US Marine Corps and Army Explosive Ordnance Disposal teams in Iraq, the prime contractor is competitor BAE Systems. The original contract and associated work began at the end of May 2006, and its total value could reach $445.4 million and 1,050 vehicles if all options are exercised. The first ILAVs, aka. 'Badgers' were delivered to Iraq 90 days after contract award, i.e. by the end of August 2006.
(Defense Industry Daily)

The DID page has quite a bit of information about MRAP development. Give 'em a visit.

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