- Reaction score
- 35
- Points
- 560
Interesting perspectives on the Fennik as the Germans use it, but if the surveillance aspect were dispensed with and a more powerful weapons station substituted, then we are now looking at a 21rst century version of the Ferret. I suppose the VBL can do, but it doesn't seem as well developed for the job. I suppose if we really want to do a shopping trip for a small recce vehicle, then the OTOCAR Cobra could also come under consideration, or perhaps a Cadillac Gage V-100 or 150. On the other hand, a "periscope" that allows you to take a quick look over obstructions has a lot to commend it as well.
I am still more inclined towards the idea of a "Patrol LAV" which transports some dismounted patrolmen (since "Scouts" is an Americanism ). As Recce 41 reminds us, the key thing is to be able to see. The LAV has the mobility to get to where we are interested in seeing (perhaps directed by a surveillance system), can "see" with the FCS, but most importantly, brings some dismounted soldiers into play to do patrols, OPs and so on. Nothing like having eyes on with four extra pairs of eyes.
If getting around and dropping off patrols was all we needed, then a MILCOTS would do, but in addition to moving around and taking a look, the "Patrol LAV" would have the ability to provide a level of protection to the crew, and a weapons system (systems really, since the patrolmen could dismount and bring small arms and anti armour weapons into action) that allows them to break contact, or take offensive action when the need arises. A small purpose built scout car has these virtues, but very limited ability to carry dismounted patrolmen, and a warmed over truck like the Duro lacks protection, firepower, and troop carrying capability.
As couchcommander and others have pointed out, anything "green" stands out, so we need to consider that we are operating at an information deficit (not information superiority or a "transparent battlefield") as long as we are operating in an overt manner. Covert operations can be done by regular troops (BGen Frank Kitson created fake Mau Mau gangs in Kenya using British troops, so anything really is possible), Special Forces (SAS and "14 Int Det" were known to work undercover in Northern Ireland), or paramilitary forces (CIA operatives), but this really is way beyond "Armoured" territory.
I am still more inclined towards the idea of a "Patrol LAV" which transports some dismounted patrolmen (since "Scouts" is an Americanism ). As Recce 41 reminds us, the key thing is to be able to see. The LAV has the mobility to get to where we are interested in seeing (perhaps directed by a surveillance system), can "see" with the FCS, but most importantly, brings some dismounted soldiers into play to do patrols, OPs and so on. Nothing like having eyes on with four extra pairs of eyes.
If getting around and dropping off patrols was all we needed, then a MILCOTS would do, but in addition to moving around and taking a look, the "Patrol LAV" would have the ability to provide a level of protection to the crew, and a weapons system (systems really, since the patrolmen could dismount and bring small arms and anti armour weapons into action) that allows them to break contact, or take offensive action when the need arises. A small purpose built scout car has these virtues, but very limited ability to carry dismounted patrolmen, and a warmed over truck like the Duro lacks protection, firepower, and troop carrying capability.
As couchcommander and others have pointed out, anything "green" stands out, so we need to consider that we are operating at an information deficit (not information superiority or a "transparent battlefield") as long as we are operating in an overt manner. Covert operations can be done by regular troops (BGen Frank Kitson created fake Mau Mau gangs in Kenya using British troops, so anything really is possible), Special Forces (SAS and "14 Int Det" were known to work undercover in Northern Ireland), or paramilitary forces (CIA operatives), but this really is way beyond "Armoured" territory.