The Puma is primarily armed with the 30mm MK30-2/ABM autocannon, a rapid-fire system housed in a 360-degree traversing turret with limited elevation. The cannon is fed by a dual-feed system and can fire an armor-piercing (APFSDS-T) or kinetic energy (KETF) projectile from its stock of 400 rounds. The former is utilized against armored targets and offers strong penetration capabilities at range through its fin-stabilized approach. The kinetic energy round is offered up against light targets and troop concentrations and comes complete with a timed-fuse capability. The main gun is backed by a Heckler & Koch HK MG4 Light Machine Gun in a coaxial turret fitting. 2,000 x 5.56mm rounds of ammunition are afforded this weapon which has seen service since 2005. The machine gun is utilized when the 30mm cannon is deemed overkill.
In concert with the latest IFV developments appearing elsewhere, the Puma is sent into battle with 2 x anti-tank guided missile launchers in the "EuroSpike Spike LR" missile system. The missiles are proven against both combat tanks and hardened structures and impressively broaden the tactical scope of the Puma vehicle. Beyond its integrated technological sensors and countermeasures, the Puma will still rely on twin banks of four smoke grenade launchers (rear turret sides) to provide a self-smokescreen during offensive or defensive actions. A 6-shot 76mm grenade launcher is affixed to the rear of the vehicle as a defensive measure against enemy infantry - a design detail largely proven by the Israeli Army during its many years of urban fighting.
Power for the Puma vehicle is supplied by an MTU V10 892 series diesel-fueled engine fitted in the front hull. The engine outputs at 1,100 horsepower at 4,250rpm and provides a top road speed of 70 km/h with an operational road range of 600 kilometers. The vehicle is suspended atop a hydropneumatic suspension system which accounts for excellent inherent cross-country performance. Dimensionally, the Puma sports a running length of 7.4 meters, with a width of 3.4 meters (slightly wider with add-on armor blocks) and a height of just over 3 meters. Its size and weight will allow for it to be transported via the new Airbus Military A400M "Atlas" transport currently in development (2012).
Beyond the German Army, who is in the process of conducting proving trials of the Puma (cold weather testing is occurring in Norway as of late 2012), Canada is seriously considering purchase of 108 examples of the new vehicle to field in conjunction with their Leopard 2 Main Battle Tanks. The Puma is also a long-shot to successfully compete in the US Army's ongoing "Ground Combat Vehicle Program" - such endeavors historically awarded to local businesses. However, Boeing and SAIC (Science Applications International Corporation) are spearheading the American initiative on behalf of PSM in the United States.
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