DSEI 2023: FFG rolls out Ukrainian-spec Wisent 1 Mine Clearing Tank

FFG Wisent 1 MCT at DSEI 2023. This vehicle is identical to those procured for Ukraine in January 2023, with the exception of the cover over the louvres at the side of the engine compartment. (Janes/Sonny Butterworth)

Flensburger Fahrzeugbau Gesellschaft (FFG) used DSEI 2023 to display the Mine Clearing Tank (MCT) variant of its Wisent 1 armoured engineering vehicle (AEV), eight of which have been supplied to Ukraine.

The 42.6 tonne Wisent 1 MCT is based upon a former German Bergepanzer 2 armoured recovery vehicle (ARV), which has been adapted to perform the mine clearance role by fitting it with specialist equipment, modifying its suspension, and increasing its protection.

The primary change is the addition of an adaptor on the front that can accommodate a Pearson Engineering Full Width Mine Plough (FWMP). When mounted on the Wisent 1 MCT, this is capable of unearthing mines that have been buried up to a depth of between 25 and 30 cm depending on the terrain. The adaptor enables the plough to be lifted to clear various obstacles and it can also be dismounted from the vehicle and stowed on a special rack to facilitate long-distance transport. Pearson Engineering's Threat-Sense system, which uses artificial intelligence (AI) to detect surface-laid mines, is not understood to be integrated into the vehicle.

In order to enhance the survivability of its crew, the Wisent 1 MCT has been fitted with an add-on armour package that is designed to improve the vehicle's ballistic and blast protection. This is concentrated at the front of the vehicle where the three-person crew are located, and includes roof protection aimed at countering bomblets. The crew are also provided with blast-attenuating seats.