The Fahd 240 mark represents an upgraded Fahd version with increased armor protection and uprated engine and retains the standard operating crew of two with seating for ten. The Fahd 240-30 fits the complete two-man turret of the Soviet-era BMP-2 IFV and its 30mm autocannon, broadening the tactical usefulness of the vehicle - this weapon system also fires the AT-series of Soviet Anti-Tank Guided Missiles (ATGMs) that includes the "Spigot" and "Spandrel" missile lines.
The versatile Fahd vehicle has been further developed into other useful battlefield forms beyond its standard APC offering: mine-layer, ambulance, Command Vehicle (CV), anti-riot platform, and Repair and Recovery (RAR) system. The mine-layer model fits the "Nather-2" mine-dispensing system for anti-tank work and the ambulance carries a crew of three with room for four patients. The CV model incorporates a broadened communications suite and installs 3 x 7.62mm machine guns for local defense. The anti-riot vehicle fits a turreted water cannon and grenade launchers for non-lethal work. A "barricade busting" spade-type panel is also fitted to the front of the hull. The vehicle retains its ten-passenger seating capacity. The RAR variant sports a boom arm with 2-ton lifting crane as well as other special mission equipment.
Beyond its APC form, the Fahd can also serve in the Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV) role. The advanced Fahd 280 installs a turreted 12.7mm/7.62mm machine gun combination weapon arrangement. Its crew is three with the passenger-hauling capability retained. The Fahd 280-30 is an offshoot fitting a turreted 30mm 2A42 autocannon over the rear roof hull for light anti-armor work.
Most any Fahd version can install smoke grenade dischargers either along the hull or at the applicable turret installation.
To date (2015) Egypt remains the largest operator of its Fahd armored vehicle with some 1,400 in service across various marks. Kuwait operates several hundred followed by Algeria with at least 200 in circulation. Bangladesh has retained some 60 or so units. The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Oman, Sudan are also active users as far as is known. The Iraqi Army is a former operator of the Fahd, having given up their stock in 2003 following the U.S.-led invasion.
The Fahd compares somewhat favorably to the larger, more expensive, wheeled APCs currently in service elsewhere making the Fahd a sound investment for what is the largest standing army on the African continent.
Content ©MilitaryFactory.com; No Reproduction Permitted.