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MAN SX
MAN SX
MAN SX
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Ziegler fire engine based on the MAN SX

Key Information

MAN Support Vehicle - Recovery (SVR) 8x8, based on the MAN SX, operated by the British Army.

The SX is a family of high-mobility off-road tactical trucks manufactured by Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles GmbH (RMMV). Production of the type had ended by early 2019. The SX range had its design origins in the MAN KAT1 range of trucks, and for brief periods was marketed as the SX90 or S2000 range of trucks. MAN (now RMMV) claimed it was the most mobile and reliable truck on earth.

For clarity, RMMV is a 49%/51% joint venture established in January 2010 between MAN Nutzfahrzeuge AG (now MAN Truck & Bus) and Rheinmetall AG.

There were 8×8, 6×6, and 4×4 variants, although during later production runs only 6×6 and 8×8 variants were produced. All SX trucks are air-transportable by C-130 Hercules in cargo configuration, with limited preparation in some instances. A 10×10 demonstrator was also built, with a 1000 hp engine, but this did not enter production.

The SX range shared a number of technologies (most visibly, the modular military-specific cab) with the HX, and also the earlier FX, LX and MX families.[1]

The UK MoD ordered large numbers of SX and MAN HX trucks to replace fleets of Foden, Bedford, and DAF Trucks. 7285 had been ordered by April 2010. A 8x8 heavy recovery version has also been built; the UK MoD ordering 288.

An airport firefighting version was also made;[2] firefighting equipment is supplied by Ziegler and Rosenbauer.[3]

See also

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References

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Bibliography

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MAN SX

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The MAN SX is a family of high-mobility, all-wheel-drive tactical trucks designed for extreme off-road operations, heavy load transport, and military logistics in diverse environments ranging from -32°C to +49°C. Manufactured primarily by MAN Nutzfahrzeuge in Germany and later through Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles GmbH (RMMV), the series evolved from the earlier MAN KAT1 platform introduced during the Cold War era, incorporating commercial driveline components from the 2000s for enhanced reliability and modularity. Available in 4×4, 6×6, and 8×8 configurations—such as the SX44 (6×6) for antenna masts and tankers, and the SX45 (8×8) for recovery vehicles, bridgelayers, and container carriers—the trucks feature air-transportable designs compatible with aircraft like the C-130 and A400M, a 30-year service life, and NATO STANAG protection levels up to 3b in armored variants. Key specifications include a 440 hp MAN D2066 Euro 4 diesel engine (6-cylinder or V8 options), a maximum speed of 90 km/h, a 750 km range, and off-road capabilities such as 1.5 m fording depth, 60% , and 40° approach angles, making it suitable for global and tactical missions. Production of the SX series, marketed as the "most mobile and reliable on earth," ceased in early , with the RMMV HX range succeeding it for ongoing military needs. Operators worldwide, including (over 7,000 units ordered by 2010), , , the , and nations like , , , , , , , and the UAE, have utilized the SX for roles including load handling systems and armored transport in .

Development

Origins and requirements

In the , European militaries faced increasing demands to modernize their capabilities amid post-Cold War restructuring and evolving operations, prompting the need for advanced off-road trucks to replace aging fleets such as the MAN KAT1 series, which had been in service since 1976 with over 8,600 units delivered to the German . These legacy vehicles, developed in the 1970s and 1980s, were becoming costly to maintain and insufficient for rapid deployment in diverse terrains, driving procurement programs across member states to seek successors with enhanced reliability and versatility. Key procurement drivers emphasized adherence to NATO standards for , enabling seamless integration with allied forces, alongside superior extreme terrain mobility and secure in conflict zones, including air-transportability via C-130 for expeditionary missions. This was particularly critical for the German , which required vehicles capable of supporting multinational operations while minimizing logistical footprints through high commonality in parts and maintenance procedures. Early development involved close collaboration between and military entities, including the , with initial efforts building on the KAT1 platform through the introduction of the KAT 1A1 variant in 1993, incorporating commercial F90 driveline components for improved efficiency. MAN's 1993 acquisition of Nutzfahrzeuge bolstered engineering expertise, while prototypes and pre-production models of the evolved SX series (designated KAT 1A1.1) underwent testing in the late 1990s, including evaluations for ballistic and mine protection in partnership with Krauss-Maffei Wegmann. Manufacturing collaborations extended to facilities like Star Trucks in , acquired by MAN in 2000, to scale production for European defense needs. The core design briefs targeted 6x6 and axle configurations to handle payloads from 10 to 30 tonnes, prioritizing modularity for mission adaptability and a targeted of 30 years or more to ensure long-term operational sustainability in harsh environments. These specifications reflected a conceptual shift toward trucks that could endure extended deployments while supporting NATO's emphasis on logistics efficiency.

Production timeline

The MAN SX series of tactical trucks entered production in the early 2000s as a successor to the earlier KAT1 range, with initial manufacturing focused on fulfilling orders for the German . First deliveries of SX variants to the commenced in the late , marking the transition to serial production of these high-mobility vehicles designed for . In 2010, and established (RMMV) as a , with holding a 51% stake and MAN 49%, integrating MAN's military truck division under a unified production entity headquartered in , . RMMV assumed responsibility for ongoing SX manufacturing, leveraging facilities in , , for assembly and , , for specialized logistic vehicle production. The 2000s saw significant contract expansions for export markets, including a 2004 selection by the for the Support Vehicle program, leading to deliveries starting in 2007 and totaling over 7,500 units by 2013. Similarly, awarded contracts to MAN for SX-based trucks in the mid-2000s to modernize its armed forces' logistics fleet, with ongoing support through the . These agreements drove production scaling, integrating SX models with emerging HX variants for enhanced interoperability. By the mid-2010s, RMMV's output for SX and related series peaked to meet global demand, though exact annual figures varied with contract volumes. Production of the SX range concluded in late 2017, with final deliveries, including specialized SX45 (L) variants to the , completed in 2019 under a £2.6 million contract. In the 2020s, while SX serial production ended, the vehicles continue to support ongoing military operations.

Design

Chassis and mobility

The MAN SX is engineered for exceptional tactical versatility, featuring a torsionally stiff box-type frame constructed from high-strength fine-grain with corrosion-resistant galvanised coatings, allowing reliable operation in extreme environmental conditions from -32°C to +49°C, with an optional kit extending to -46°C. The vehicle's system, featuring coil springs with 320 mm of travel per wheel, incorporates portal axles to deliver superior off-road mobility, providing 500 mm of ground clearance and a fording depth of 1.2 m without preparation. Available in 6×6 and 8×8 configurations—with gross weights up to 25 tonnes for the 6×6 and 33 tonnes for the 8×8 models—the includes full differential locks across all axles and a to enhance traction and adaptability on varied terrains. Key terrain performance metrics underscore its robustness, including the ability to climb 60% gradients, overcome 0.6 m vertical obstacles, and sustain an average off-road speed of 30 km/h, ensuring effective mobility in demanding operational scenarios. This structure integrates with the to optimize overall vehicle mobility, supporting rapid traversal of rough landscapes while maintaining integrity.

Powertrain and

The MAN SX series is powered by MAN D2066 series diesel , typically an inline six-cylinder but with V8 options, turbocharged and intercooled, featuring a displacement of 10.5 liters and common-rail direct injection. This delivers outputs ranging from 440 horsepower (324 kW) at 1,900 rpm, with maximum of 2,100 Nm available between 1,000 and 1,400 rpm, enabling robust in demanding off-road conditions. Certain configurations extend power up to 480 horsepower while maintaining peaks around 2,300 Nm for enhanced . The complies with 4 emissions standards through and systems, ensuring environmental compatibility without compromising reliability. Power is transferred via fully automatic transmissions, primarily the ZF 6HP902 six-speed unit or optional eight-speed variants from ZF or Allison, paired with a two-speed and electro-pneumatic differential locks across all axles. These systems support selectable drive modes, including permanent all-wheel drive for 6x6 and configurations, providing seamless shifts and optimal power distribution for varied terrains. The integrates with this to handle payloads up to 16 tons while maintaining mobility. Performance metrics emphasize tactical versatility, with top speeds electronically limited to 90 km/h on-road for and , though capable of reaching 85-105 km/h in optimal conditions. Acceleration from 0 to 50 km/h takes approximately 20-30 seconds when fully loaded, reflecting the vehicle's focus on low-end over rapid sprinting. Fuel efficiency varies by configuration and terrain, typically 25-35 L/100 km off-road, supported by a 500-liter that yields an operational range of 600-800 km.

Cab and protection features

The cab of the MAN SX tactical truck features a modular all-steel that accommodates 2 to 4 members, with ergonomic seating, adjustable controls, and three-point seat belts for enhanced operator comfort during extended missions. The cab is hydraulically tiltable, allowing straightforward access to the and transmission for in field conditions. Optional configurations include an extended cab variant with additional bench seating to support larger s. Protection features emphasize crew survivability, with the standard cab providing baseline ballistic resistance against fire and shell fragments in line with Level 1, equivalent to 7.62 mm ammunition impacts. For heightened threats, modular armor kits such as the Modular Armoured Cabin (MAC) upgrade protection to Level 2 against rifle fire (including 7.62 mm armor-piercing rounds) and Level 1 mine resistance, while the Integrated Armour Cabin (IAC) achieves Level 3 ballistic protection and Level 3b resistance to anti-tank mines, capable of withstanding up to 6 kg under the crew compartment. These add-on armor systems are externally mounted, preserving the vehicle's payload capacity and mobility. Additional safety systems include optional NBC (nuclear, biological, chemical) filtration units for overpressure protection against contaminated environments, and compatibility with integrated into the engine bay and crew areas. The cab design supports FOPS (falling object protective structure) and ROPS (roll-over protective structure) certification, safeguarding against overhead impacts and vehicle overturns in rough terrain. Visibility is improved through a detonation-resistant multi-section windscreen, electrically adjustable mirrors, and optional 360-degree camera systems like MAN BirdView for monitoring blind spots and surroundings. inserts and a further enhance operational resilience by allowing continued mobility after punctures. A built-in diagnostics interface, linked to MAN's service, enables real-time monitoring of vehicle systems for and fault detection.

Variants

6x6 models

The 6x6 variants of the MAN SX series represent the medium-mobility configuration within the family, optimized for tactical logistics in demanding terrains while maintaining air-transportability. These models feature permanent all-wheel drive and a progressive coil spring suspension to handle extreme off-road conditions, including gradients up to 60% and side slopes of 40%. The design emphasizes modularity, allowing integration of various superstructures for versatile operational roles. Key models include the SX44 , which serves as the base for general duties, and specialized derivatives such as tankers, antenna mast carriers, load handling systems, bridgelayers, and . These configurations support primary roles in , fuel distribution, and command operations, with the 6x6 setup providing enhanced maneuverability compared to heavier variants. The recovery variant incorporates a system for vehicle extraction in field conditions. Typical dimensions for the 6x6 models include a width of 2.5 to 2.6 meters, facilitating compatibility with standard like the C-130 , where lightweight adaptations keep total weight under 16 tonnes for underslung or internal loading. Optional demountable systems enable quick swapping of ISO containers or other payloads, enhancing logistical flexibility without permanent modifications to the . The 6x6 models share the series' powertrain, featuring a MAN D2066 LFG delivering 440 horsepower for reliable performance across missions. Off-road payload capacities generally range from approximately 9 tonnes, depending on configuration and terrain.

8x8 models

The MAN SX 8x8 variants represent the heavy-duty configurations of the SX truck family, designed for superior load-bearing and traction in demanding off-road environments, with a focus on strategic transport roles such as heavy recovery, engineering support, and . The base model, designated SX45, features a gross vehicle weight (GVW) of 32 tonnes, enabling it to handle payloads typically ranging from 14 to 16 tonnes depending on the mission fit. These trucks are powered by a MAN D2066 LFG 10.5-liter turbocharged delivering 440 horsepower, compliant with 4 emissions standards, and paired with a fully automatic transmission for reliable performance across varied terrains. Key 8x8 models include the SX45 configured as an armored transporter, which incorporates a modular cab with an add-on armor protection kit developed in collaboration with Krauss-Maffei Wegmann to enhance crew survivability against ballistic and mine threats while maintaining mobility. Another prominent variant is the SX45 recovery vehicle, equipped with a heavy-duty crane, main , and self-recovery suited for and recovering loads exceeding 40 tonnes in tactical scenarios, with specifications varying by operator (e.g., 25-tonne main and 8-tonne self-recovery in some configurations). These configurations support handling of loads up to 16 tonnes in specialized roles, such as bridgelaying or load handling systems, where the vehicle's reinforced planetary axles and differential locks provide optimized distribution across all eight wheels for enhanced traction. The reinforced axles enabling a fording depth of 1.2 meters without preparation or up to 1.5 meters with snorkel and sealing kits, ensuring operational versatility in water obstacles. In terms of dimensions, the SX45 measures approximately 10.6 meters in length, 2.55 meters in width, and 3.1 meters in height, with a torsion-stiff box-type frame and progressive suspension that contributes to a ground clearance suitable for 60% gradient climbing and side slopes up to 40%. Unique features of the models include a maximum towed load capacity of up to 50 tonnes in recovery configurations, supported by a gross weight of 62 tonnes, and compatibility with modular upgrades shared with the successor HX series for extended and adaptability in multinational operations.

Specialized derivatives

The MAN SX platform has been adapted into specialized recovery variants, particularly the 8x8 configuration equipped with for heavy vehicle extraction in operations. The Danish Army's Heavy Tactical Recovery (HTRV), based on the SX45 8x8 , features a 15-tonne Atlas 600.2 crane, a Rötzler RT200 main providing 25 tonnes of force, an 8-tonne Rötzler RT080 self-recovery , and a 1.2-tonne Rötzler HZ010 auxiliary . This setup enables recovery of disabled vehicles up to 40 tonnes or containers up to 17 tonnes, with the armored cab offering ballistic and mine protection. Similarly, the British Army's Support (SV) recovery variant on the MAN SX 32.440 8x8 includes a comparable crane and system for and lifting, with 288 units procured to support in contested environments. Engineering derivatives of the MAN SX emphasize modular adaptations for combat support, including Load Handling Systems (LHS) on the SX45 8x8 model, which facilitate rapid deployment of flatracks for or specialized platforms like bridge layers and mine-clearing equipment. The LHS variant uses hydraulic arms to load and unload demountable cargo beds, enhancing versatility for engineering tasks such as laying temporary bridging or mounting mine-clearing rollers and plows on the . For instance, the 6x6 SX44 configuration supports a bridgelayer variant capable of deploying assault bridges for tactical gaps. Other specialized conversions include ammunition carriers, where standard cargo bodies on 6x6 and SX chassis are reinforced for secure transport of munitions, often with explosion-suppressed compartments to mitigate risks during off-road movement. and bowser variants, typically on the 6x6 SX44, feature insulated tanks with capacities up to 10,000 liters, integrated pumps, and spill-proof designs for resupply in austere conditions. Command post adaptations involve system cabins on the SX45 , outfitted with integrated communications suites, links, and deployable antenna masts for real-time coordination, as seen in the British Army's Land Environment Air Picture Provision (LEAPP) vehicles. Export customizations highlight tailored recovery setups, such as the Danish "Heavy " HTRV with its Miller-integrated module for enhanced towing in Nordic terrains, and British SV variants featuring winch and crane configurations optimized for interoperability. These derivatives maintain the core SX chassis's 440 hp engine and 8x8 drive for reliability across variants.

4x4 models

The 4x4 variants, such as the SX40, provide light-mobility options for utility and reconnaissance roles, with payloads around 5-6 tonnes and air-transportable designs compatible with C-130 aircraft. These models share the series' engine and suspension features but prioritize speed and compactness for forward deployment.

Operators

Military users

The German serves as the primary military operator of the MAN SX series, having integrated various configurations into its and fleets since the to support high-mobility operations. In 1994, the procured 358 MAN SX 2000 32.403 VFAEG chassis for specialized equipment such as vehicles. Between 2010 and 2012, an additional 157 SX 45 Multi A4 FSA protected trucks were acquired for transport and command roles, including deployment with the (KFOR). These acquisitions reflect the vehicle's role in modernizing the 's tactical truck inventory beyond legacy systems. The employs MAN SX variants within its broader Support Vehicle (SV) program, which combines SX and related HX models to replace outdated Foden, , and fleets with enhanced off-road capabilities. By April 2010, the UK Ministry of Defence had ordered 7,285 vehicles across the SV initiative, including SX configurations for cargo and specialized tasks. Notable recent acquisitions include five SX45 (L) 8x8 platform trucks delivered in under a £2.6 million contract for mobile surveillance support. The Danish Army maintains a fleet of 14 SX 45 8x8 heavy tactical recovery vehicles, designated as the "Miller" recovery system, acquired in 2013 to bolster battlefield recovery operations. These units feature a Miller recovery module with a 75-tonne crane and dual 30-tonne winches, capable of towing up to 40-tonne loads while providing STANAG Level 3/3 ballistic and mine protection. Additional operators include the Royal Netherlands Army, which utilizes SX 2000 models for engineer tasks such as the MLC-70 road mat system and Brunnenbohrgerät U3V well-drilling equipment. The armed forces of Austria (badged as OAF), Malaysia, Norway, Sweden, Australia, Algeria, Italy, Kuwait, Oman, UAE, Lithuania, and Slovenia also operate SX variants for logistics, recovery, and other duties. Limited exports support UN peacekeeping missions, where SX trucks facilitate hybrid civilian-military transport in multinational operations.

Deployment history

The MAN SX series has seen initial deployment with the as part of the (KFOR) peacekeeping mission, where the all-protected SX 45 Multi 2 IAC 3 heavy truck variant provided logistics support and demonstrated reliable off-road performance in challenging terrain. In major operations, the utilized MAN SX and HX vehicles extensively in starting from early 2008 as part of the (ISAF), employing up-armored 8x8 configurations for convoy protection and supply transport amid insurgent threats. These trucks had previously supported operations in , highlighting their adaptability to high-threat environments. The also contributed to ISAF from 2007 to 2014, relying on tactical trucks like the MAN SX for engineering and logistics tasks, though specific variant usage reports emphasize overall fleet reliability in regional stability efforts. The deployed personnel to the Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in (MINUSMA) from 2013 onward, utilizing high-mobility for engineering support and patrols in arid conditions in this extended operation. exercises such as Trident Juncture 2018 in and Cold Response 2022 supported and testing among allied forces in cold-weather scenarios, with tactical trucks facilitating troop movements and supply chains to underscore multinational readiness. Reports from operational theaters, including , noted IED threats leading to enhanced protection measures; by 2015, upgrades such as additional armor kits were applied to MAN SX variants to improve survivability, resulting in sustained service with low maintenance requirements across user fleets.

References

  1. https://www.deagel.com/Armies/MAN%20SX/a001977
  2. https://truck-encyclopedia.com/modern/germany/MAN-SX.php
  3. http://www.army-guide.com/eng/product2203.html
  4. https://armyrecognition.com/archives/archives-land-defense/2015/rheinmetall-man-military-vehicles-showcases-hx-and-sx-families-of-logistical-trucks-at-dsei-2015-21509156
  5. https://www.trucksplanet.com/photo/man/sx/sx_k1.pdf
  6. https://www.army-technology.com/projects/rmmv-hx-family-of-vehicles/
  7. https://www.rheinmetall.com/en/company/history/2006-2010
  8. https://www.rheinmetall.com/en/company/subsidiaries/rheinmetall-man-military-vehicles/about-us
  9. https://www.armyvehicles.dk/procure.htm
  10. https://press.mantruckandbus.com/united-kingdom/man-truck--bus-uk-ltd-completes-delivery-of-last-ever-made-sx45-l-vehicles-to-british-army/
  11. https://unival-group.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/UV-MAN-KAT-SX-6x6-with-TEREX-Crane-Specifications.pdf
  12. https://www.armyshark.com/trucks-ambulances/as-0000273
  13. https://armyrecognition.com/archives/archives-land-defense/land-defense-2019/rheinmetall-man-delivers-last-man-sx45-l-8x8-radar-platform-trucks-to-british-army
  14. https://www.joint-forces.com/features/32776-man-support-vehicle-in-uk-service-pt4
  15. https://www.armyvehicles.dk/man32440.htm
  16. https://expeditionportal.com/forum/threads/8x8-man-on-ebay.12250/
  17. https://www.tanaxtrucks.com/military-trucks/modular-armoured-cabin/
  18. https://www.man.eu/global/en/truck/assistance-systems/360_-camera-system/man-birdview.html
  19. https://www.deagel.com/Armies/MAN%2520SX/a001977
  20. https://www.army.mod.uk/learn-and-explore/equipment/logistic-vehicles/logistic-support-vehicles-lsv/
  21. https://www.armyrecognition.com/archives/archives-land-defense/land-defense-2019/rheinmetall-man-delivers-last-man-sx45-l-8x8-radar-platform-trucks-to-british-army
  22. https://www.armyvehicles.dk/man32444_wrec.htm
  23. https://www.exmilitaryvehiclesforsale.co.uk/index.php/search-by-description/50458?layout=print&tmpl=component&print=1
  24. https://www.army-technology.com/news/newsrheinmetall-to-supply-heavy-tactical-recovery-vehicles-to-danish-army/
  25. https://www.joint-forces.com/features/32245-man-support-vehicle-variant-overview
  26. https://www.deagel.com/news/n000011442
  27. https://www.dw.com/en/what-happens-next-for-the-bundeswehr-in-mali/a-64224644
  28. https://www.nato.int/cps/en/natohq/157833.htm
  29. https://www.nato.int/cps/en/natohq/news_192351.htm
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