Dardo IFV
 | This article includes a improve this article by introducing more precise citations. (April 2014) ) |
| Dardo | |
|---|---|
hydropneumatic torsion bar | |
Operational range | 600 km (372.8 mi) |
| Maximum speed | 70 km/h (43.5 mi/h) |
The Dardo is an
Description
Armament
The Dardo is primarily armed with the 25mm
Fire control is provided by the Galileo Avionica Hitfist integrated fire control system, which is capable of measuring target speed and range. The commander is provided with six episcope sights, which provide 360° field of view. The cupola can be further fitted with a panoramic stabilised sight. Additionally, a laser range finder and a thermal imager are provided for the gunner. The commander is equipped with a monitor that displays the view from the gunner night vision system.
For dealing with heavy armoured threats, two BGM-71 TOW anti tank missiles can be installed, one on each side of the turret. These missiles have a maximum range of approximately 4 km.
Self protection
The Dardo hull is built from welded aluminum alloy with add on steel armour plates for increased protection. Over the frontal arc, the vehicle is protected against 25mm APDS projectiles. The side armour protects against 14.5mm API projectiles. Four 80mm smoke grenade launchers are installed on each side of the turret.
Propulsion
The Dardo is powered by an Iveco V6
The running gear consists of six dual rubber-lined road wheels, with three return rollers on each side and connector type tracks. The suspension consists of a torsion bar, bumper and a hydraulic shock absorber on each suspension arm. Disc brakes on each of the final drives controlled by a transmission retarder provide the braking.
Together, this allows the Dardo to achieve speeds in excess of 70 km/h, maneuver on gradients of more than 60% and ford waters up to a depth of 1.5 m.
Future variants
The Dardo IFVs currently in service with the Italian Army are fitted with the "Hitfist" IFV turret. The chassis is intended to be the basic model of a family of vehicles, which may include a 120 mm mortar carrier, command (C3I) vehicle, ambulance and light tank with a 105mm gun turret.
Combat history
Dardo IFVs were deployed with the Italian Army as part of the Italian contribution to
Operators
Italy – 200 vehicles
- 1st Bersaglieri Regiment, Bersaglieri Brigade "Garibaldi"
- 8th Bersaglieri Regiment, Bersaglieri Brigade "Garibaldi"
- Armored Brigade "Ariete"
See also
- ASCOD – Austro-Spanish armoured fighting vehicle
- Bionix – Singaporean infantry fighting vehicle
- BMP-3 – Soviet infantry fighting vehicle family
- CV-90– Swedish Infantry fighting vehicle
- K21 – South Korean infantry fighting vehicle
- M2 Bradley – American infantry fighting vehicle
- Puma (IFV)– German infantry fighting vehicle
- Mitsubishi Type 89 IFV – Japanese infantry fighting vehicle
- Tulpar (IFV)– Turkish infantry fighting vehicle
- Abhay IFV – Indian Infantry Combat Vehicle
- Makran IFV – Iranian infantry fighting vehicle