Power for the Luchs vehicle came from a single Daimler-Benz OM403A 10-cylinder turbocharged gasoline-fueled engine of 300 horsepower. An alternative diesel-fueled engine arrangement could increase output to 390 horsepower. Hydraulic suspension was afforded to all eight wheels as was driving power. All axles were steerable and the wheels held a "run flat" capability. Operational ranges reached 730 kilometers with road speeds in excess of 90 kmh.
The Luchs line received a modernization beginning in 1986 to keep its battlefield effectiveness in line with technological developments by the enemy - namely that of the Soviet Union, now residing conveniently across the West German border in East Germany. Modifications to the original Luchs design included the addition of Night Vision (NV) and InfraRed (IR) support, producing the Luchs A1 mark. The subsequent Luchs A2 brought about use of all-new communications equipment.
Despite its effectiveness, the Luchs line of vehicles were eventually replaced itself within the inventory of the reborn German Army by the more modern "Fennek" 4x4 light armored reconnaissance vehicle of German-Dutch origination.
Content ©MilitaryFactory.com; No Reproduction Permitted.