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Bandvagn 206
Bandvagn 206
Bandvagn 206
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US Marines in a Norwegian bv 206 traveling through snow.

Key Information

Bandvagn 206 (bv 206) (meaning "Tracked Vehicle 206" in English) is a tracked articulated, all-terrain carrier initially developed and manufactured by the Swedish company Hägglund & Söner, and subsequently by BAE Systems Hägglunds, for the Swedish Army. It consists of two units, with all four tracks powered. It can carry up to 17 people, 6 in the front compartment, 11 in the rear. The trailer unit can be adapted for different uses (see Variants section).

History

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Development of the bv 206 all-terrain articulated tracked carrier began in 1974. Three batches of trial vehicles were delivered by Hägglund & Söner between 1976 and 1978. The first production examples were delivered to the Swedish Defence Administration in 1980.

In 1997 the military vehicles business of Hägglund & Söner was acquired by Alvis plc, becoming Alvis Hägglunds. In turn, in 2004, Alvis became part of BAE Systems, with the business becoming BAE Systems Hägglunds.

Description

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Articulated steering on a bandvagn 206.

Like its predecessor, the Volvo Bv 202, the bv 206 is designed to carry troops and equipment through snow and bog-lands in northern Sweden. The low ground pressure enables the bv 206 to cope with a wide range of difficult conditions. It is fully amphibious, with a speed in water of up to 4.7 kilometres per hour (2.9 mph). Over 11,000 units have been produced and they are used in more than 37 countries worldwide.

The total load capacity is 2,250 kilograms (4,960 lb). A trailer of up to 2,500 kilograms (5,500 lb) gross weight can be towed behind the second compartment.

The bv 206 is referred to as a Small Unit Support Vehicle (SUSV) pronounced "susvee" in United States service. U.S. military variants include the standard model (M973), a tactical operations center variant (M1065), an ambulance variant (M1066) and a flat-bed cargo carrier (M1067). U.S. military models are fitted with a 6-cylinder Mercedes diesel engine and a non-halon fire suppression system since 1997 due to several cases where the front car caught fire and burned to the frame.

A bv 206D being transported by a German Army CH-53.

Users include the American and Australian Antarctic research organizations and British, Icelandic and Canadian search and rescue services. They are also used for search and rescue services in the Austrian alpine region. The bv 206 was used in combat by the Canadian Army during Operation Anaconda. The Singapore Armed Forces uses the bv 206, and recently transferred several of them to the Singapore Civil Defense Force for use as a firefighting platform.

Decommissioned units have been purchased by private owners and rented as transports, particularly in Alberta, Canada, to access remote oil wells, crew transport for wildfire, as well as cut blocks which need to be reforested by tree planting.

The bv 206 is used in Antarctica, Brazil, Canada, Chile, China, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Indonesia, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Lithuania, Latvia, Malaysia, Mexico, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Pakistan, Singapore,[citation needed] South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Thailand, Ukraine, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

Variants

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This tracked vehicle, a Swedish Hägglunds bv 206, achieves low ground pressure through full-length, wide rubber tracks and a lightweight body. The two sections of the vehicle are articulated, allowing it to keep contact with the ground over broken terrain. The ground pressure is low enough that the vehicle can traverse loose snow without sinking. The vehicle is amphibious and propelled in water by its tracks.

Bv 206A

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The Bv 206A is an ambulance version, which is capable of carrying stretchers in the rear compartment.

Bv 206F

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The Bv 206F is a fire appliance variant.

RaBv 2061

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The RaBv 2061 (RadioBandvagn 2061) is a Swedish Army communications/command version, fitted with radio equipment and workplaces for staff members.

PvBv 2062

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The PvBv 2062 (PansarvärnsBandvagn 2062) is a Swedish Army anti-tank vehicle, an open top version of the Bv 206 armed with a 90 mm Pvpj 1110 recoilless anti-tank gun.

PvBv 2063

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The PvBv 2063 (PansarvärnsBandvagn 2063) is another Swedish Army anti-tank vehicle, similar to the PvBv 2062, but fitted with the launch system for an ATGM, either the TOW (Rbs 55) or the Bofors BILL (Rbs 56).

RlBv 2068

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Signalist version of the Bv 206 with radio relay capability. The vehicle is outfitted with mission specific equipment that allows it to fill different functions in the Swedish military telecommunications network Telenät 2000. It was used on the brigade and divisional echelons of the Swedish Army.[2]

Bv 206S

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The Bv 206S is an armoured personnel carrier variant of the bv 206, which provides protection from small arms fire for the occupants. It is in service with the armed forces of France, Germany (379 bv 206D/S ordered), Spain, Netherlands, Italy (158 units), Sweden (93 units), Greece (Bv 208) and Singapore (300 units), which has replaced it with the Bronco All Terrain Tracked Carrier.

An armored bv 206S ambulance of the German Army.

Using a Steyr M1-"Monoblock" engine (6-cylinder, 130 kW),[3] the vehicle can carry the driver and 12 combat-equipped troops — four in the front compartment and eight in the rear. The bv 206S can be underslung and airlifted by Boeing CH-47 Chinook and Sikorsky CH-53E Super Stallion helicopters or carried in the C-130 Hercules airplane, amongst others.

Canadian troops taking part in Operation Anaconda in Afghanistan made good use of this vehicle, riding over rough mountainous terrain with full combat gear, allowing the men to avoid the exhaustion they would have felt moving on foot at such high altitudes and in such conditions.

The UK is looking to replace its bv 206Ds by 2020.[4]

GAZ-3351

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Produced in Russia under license from Hägglunds by the GAZ Group at the Zavolzhsky Plant Of Caterpillar Tractors. Uses a 6-cylinder Steyr M16 turbodiesel engine.[5][6][failed verification]

BvS 10

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Main article: BvS 10
BvS 10 of the French Army

The BvS 10, not to be confused with the bv 206 or bv 206S, is a much larger but still fully amphibious armoured vehicle based upon the characteristic twin-cab, articulated steering system typical of Hägglunds all-terrain vehicles. It is equipped with a 6-cylinder Steyr M1 engine with 200 kW.[7] It was originally designed for the British Royal Marines Commandos and named All Terrain Vehicle (Protected) - ATV(P) VIKING.

It is in service with the Royal Marines Armoured Support Group and the Royal Netherlands Marine Corps. The French Army have recently ordered 130 Bvs10s. The Austrian Armed Forces 32 BvS10AUT represents the most modern variant with full vehicle and crew protection and a 12.7 mm remote-controlled weapon station. It is also planned for the Italian Army.

BvS 10 Beowulf

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The BvS 10 Beowulf is essentially an unarmored version of the BvS 10 Viking.

Other variants

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Other variants exist including mortar carrier, cargo carrier, fuel carrier, radar and command post. The units can easily be customized to meet customer requirements.

Specifications (original version)

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A diagram of the bv 206.
  • Engine: 2.8L 99 kW Ford Cologne V6.
  • Gearbox: MB W 4A-018 automatic transmission
  • Weight: 4,500 kilograms (9,900 lb)
  • Cargo load: 2,240 kilograms (4,940 lb) - 630 kilograms (1,390 lb) in front unit and 1,610 kilograms (3,550 lb) in trailer unit)
  • Length: 6.9 metres (23 ft)
  • Width: 1.87 metres (6.1 ft)
  • Height: 2.4 metres (7.9 ft)

Operators

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A map of bandvagn 206 operators in blue.
Bandvagn in civil service with energy company Svenska kraftnät
Bandvagn in civil service with the Swedish Transport Administration
Bandvagn in civil service with energy company Hedemora Energi
Bandvagn in mortar configuration with the Norwegian Army
Bandvagn in air-defence configuration with IRIS-T
Bandvagn in artillery hunting radar configuration with ARTHUR

Current operators

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Civilian operators

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See also

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Similar vehicles with the bv 206 ATV include:

References

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Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Bandvagn 206

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
The Bandvagn 206 (Bv 206), also known as the BV 206, is a Swedish articulated tracked all-terrain carrier designed for transporting troops, equipment, and supplies across challenging environments such as snow, bogs, sand, and rocky terrain. Developed in the 1970s by the Hägglunds company (now part of ) specifically for the , it features a unique two-section design connected by a flexible joint, enabling superior maneuverability in extreme conditions while remaining amphibious with a water speed of up to 4 km/h. Powered by a 2.8-liter Ford V6 producing 136 horsepower, the vehicle weighs approximately 4,200 kg empty and can carry payloads up to 2,250 kg, with a top speed of 50 km/h on roads. Introduced into service in , the Bv 206 quickly gained international recognition for its reliability in and winter operations, leading to exports and adoption by over 37 countries, including , , and the . Its modular construction allows for various configurations, such as personnel carriers, ambulances, or mortar platforms, and it has been upgraded over the decades to include modern features like improved engines and ballistic protection in variants like the Bv 206S. The vehicle's low ground pressure from its wide rubber tracks—typically 0.18 kg/cm²—ensures minimal soil disturbance and exceptional flotation, making it a staple for in remote or hostile terrains. Beyond military applications, the Bv 206 has seen civilian use in search-and-rescue missions, polar expeditions, and utility tasks, underscoring its versatility as a workhorse in inaccessible areas. Over 11,000 units have been produced since 1980, but its legacy endures through ongoing maintenance programs and specialized variants tailored to specific operational needs.

History

Development

In the early 1970s, the Swedish Army recognized the limitations of existing mobility solutions, such as the Bandvagn 202—a tracked all-terrain vehicle introduced in the 1960s—for operations in northern arctic environments, prompting requirements for a lighter, more versatile carrier capable of navigating deep snow, rough terrain, and water obstacles while transporting troops and supplies. This need arose from the demands of Sweden's expansive northern territories, where traditional snowmobiles and older tractors proved inadequate for sustained military logistics in extreme cold and variable conditions. Hägglund & Söner, a Swedish engineering firm specializing in military vehicles, led the design effort, building on the articulated configuration pioneered in the Bv 202 to create a dual-section, tracked platform that enhanced stability and ground contact over uneven surfaces. Development officially commenced in , focusing on amphibious capabilities, lightweight construction, and powered tracks for all four units to improve maneuverability in and . The prototype phase advanced rapidly, with the first batch of trial vehicles delivered to the in 1976 for initial evaluations emphasizing performance in , , and . Additional batches followed in 1977 and 1978, enabling comprehensive testing phases that included cold-weather trials in northern to validate mobility, reliability, and load-carrying capacity under arctic conditions. These evaluations addressed key engineering aspects, such as the articulation joint's ability to withstand torsional stresses and environmental extremes, through refinements that ensured operational durability. Following successful trials, the Swedish Army placed its first production contract in 1979, leading to formal adoption and the vehicle's entry into service by 1980 as a cornerstone of arctic mobility.

Production and Manufacturers

Production of the Bandvagn 206 began in 1980 at the facilities of AB Hägglund & Söner in Örnsköldsvik, Sweden, following development and testing phases that started in 1974. The initial contract awarded in 1979 called for 3,500 units to equip the Swedish Armed Forces, with full-scale deliveries commencing in early 1981. Annual production rates peaked during the 1980s to fulfill both domestic requirements and growing export orders from over 35 countries, enabling rapid scaling to meet demand for arctic and all-terrain operations. By the end of the , Hägglund & Söner had manufactured the majority of the fleet, with total output exceeding 11,000 units worldwide as of the early . In , the company was acquired by , forming Alvis Hägglunds, which continued production of base models and variants. BAE Systems then purchased Alvis in 2004, integrating the operations into Hägglunds AB, under which assembly of specialized variants persisted into the to support ongoing military contracts. Original series production tapered off by the late as demand shifted toward customized exports and upgrades, with licensed manufacturing occurring in by the starting in the for the GAZ-3351 variant. By the 2020s, Hägglunds had phased out new-build production, redirecting efforts to mid-life upgrades, such as diesel conversions for approximately 800 Swedish Bandvagn 206 and 208 vehicles under a SEK 820 million contract awarded in 2023, alongside provision of spares and maintenance support. This evolution reflects the vehicle's enduring operational role, with cumulative production surpassing 11,000 units by 2025.

Design

Configuration and Articulation

The Bandvagn 206 employs a dual-unit configuration designed for superior all-terrain mobility, consisting of a front power unit that houses the cab and and a rear unit for transport. These units are interconnected by a central articulation joint, which enables independent movement between them to adapt to challenging environments such as , , or rough ground. The joint facilitates vertical pivoting to follow undulations and horizontal oscillation for , with the incorporating hydrostatic to control oscillations and enhance stability during operation. This articulated layout allows the vehicle to "float" over soft surfaces by distributing contact points across four independent tracks, two per unit. The tracked suspension system is a key element of the vehicle's design, featuring rubber tracks measuring 0.6 m in width on each side of both units to minimize ground and provide traction in low-friction conditions like deep or marshy . The tracks are molded rubber with cord , providing low ground . Each track assembly includes four pairs of road wheels mounted on trailing arms, independently sprung using rubber tension elements for smooth ride quality over obstacles. The absence of return rollers simplifies the undercarriage, reducing needs and overall weight while maintaining effective track tension via a rear idler mechanism. This setup ensures the vehicle maintains consistent contact with the ground, contributing to its ability to operate where wheeled vehicles cannot. Construction emphasizes lightweight durability suited to arctic and extreme conditions, with a steel frame providing structural integrity and optional body panels made from fiberglass or aluminum for enhanced corrosion resistance against moisture and salt exposure. The total coupled length measures 6.92 m, with a width of 2 m and height of 2.4 m, optimizing transportability while accommodating up to 5-6 personnel in the front unit (including driver) and 11 passengers or cargo in the rear. Load distribution is engineered for balance, with ground pressures of 13.4 kPa on the front unit and 13.3 kPa on the rear, promoting even weight transfer and steering responsiveness across varied loads up to 2,240 kg total capacity (630 kg front, 1,610 kg rear). This configuration prioritizes the front unit's role in propulsion and control, ensuring stability during articulation without compromising the rear unit's payload versatility.

Powertrain and Propulsion

The original Bandvagn 206 was equipped with a 2.8-liter Ford V6 engine, delivering 99 kW (132 hp) and designed for reliable operation in extreme environments, including conditions. This engine, shared with civilian vehicles like the Ford , provided sufficient torque for low-speed traction across snow, ice, and rough terrain, with power output optimized for the vehicle's articulated configuration. Later export and upgraded models often substituted diesel engines, such as the OM602 inline-five, but the base Swedish production version retained the petrol powerplant for simplicity and parts commonality. Power from the engine, mounted in the front unit, is transmitted through a 4-speed automatic gearbox, typically the W4A-018 or equivalent, combined with a Hagglunds offering high and low range selections for varied terrain demands. Cardan shafts extend from the transmission to the final drives in both the front and rear units, ensuring all four rubber tracks are actively powered rather than the rear being passively towed. Some early or export configurations featured manual transmissions, but the standard setup prioritized automatic shifting for ease of operation in demanding conditions. Steering relies on a hydrostatic articulated between the two units, allowing the vehicle to pivot for tight maneuvers without employing differential braking on the front tracks or power-assisted systems. This design minimizes ground disturbance and enhances stability on uneven surfaces, with the system's damping preventing excessive . The front unit houses a 160-liter , enabling a range of about 300 km, while auxiliary jerry cans can extend operational endurance. For amphibious operations, the Bandvagn 206 uses its powered tracks to generate in , achieving speeds of up to 5 km/h after fitting a trim vane for buoyancy. Optional kits were available for certain to boost mobility, though the standard track suffices for crossing rivers and shallow obstacles.

Mobility Features

The Bandvagn 206's mobility is enhanced by its high ground clearance of 350 mm, which, combined with the vehicle's articulated design, allows it to traverse slopes up to 30 degrees and cross trenches up to 1.8 meters wide. This configuration enables the vehicle to navigate uneven terrain effectively, maintaining stability through the flexible connection between its front and rear units. The vehicle's flotation capabilities stem from its low ground pressure of approximately 0.14 kg/cm², achieved via wide rubber tracks measuring 600 mm, which distribute weight evenly to prevent sinking in soft surfaces. This design permits operation over deep snow up to 1 meter or without significant bogging down, making it suitable for and environments. Cold-weather adaptations include quick-release tracks for easy maintenance in low temperatures, electric engine pre-heaters to ensure reliable starts, and an insulated cab that supports operations down to -50°C. These features, along with the vehicle's heating system, allow sustained functionality in extreme subzero conditions by minimizing frost buildup and maintaining crew comfort. For amphibious operations, the Bandvagn 206 features a buoyant fiberglass hull that provides inherent flotation, supplemented by seals to prevent water ingress during immersion. Propulsion in water is achieved via the powered tracks, with crew members positioned to steer and operate from both compartments for effective control. The vehicle offers a towing capacity of up to 2.5 tons for trailed loads, facilitating the transport of additional equipment or trailers across challenging terrain, and optional winches enable self-recovery in situations where the vehicle becomes immobilized.

Specifications

Dimensions and Capacity

The Bandvagn 206, an articulated tracked vehicle, features compact dimensions optimized for maneuverability in challenging terrains while providing substantial internal space for transport. Its overall length measures 6.9 m, width 1.87 m, and height 2.4 m to the cab roof, allowing it to navigate narrow paths and low-clearance areas effectively. In terms of weight and capacity, the vehicle has a curb weight of 4,330 kg and a gross vehicle weight of 6,580 kg, enabling a robust of 2,250 kg. This supports versatile usage, such as carrying cargo or accommodating up to 11 troops in the rear unit alongside the driver, for a total personnel capacity of 17 individuals. The typical consists of two personnel—a driver and commander—positioned in the front unit. The rear unit offers 5.5 m³ of cargo volume, with total cargo space of 8 m³, adaptable for , litters, or other supplies.
SpecificationValue
Length6.9 m
Width1.87 m
(cab roof)2.4 m
Curb weight4,330 kg
Gross vehicle weight6,580 kg
2,250 kg
Personnel capacityUp to 17 (including crew of 2)
Rear cargo volume5.5 m³ (total 8 m³)

Performance Metrics

The Bandvagn 206 is engineered for superior mobility in challenging environments, with key performance metrics emphasizing and adaptability. It attains a top speed of 55 km/h on roads and 3 km/h in , allowing it to traverse varied terrains efficiently while maintaining control. Operational range extends to 300 km on roads, supported by a 160-liter that balances capacity with the 's lightweight design. consumption stands at 50 liters per 100 km off-road, highlighting the efficiency of its diesel powertrain in demanding scenarios despite the tracked configuration. The excels in , capable of ascending gradients up to 60% and handling side-slopes of 35° (approximately 70%), which contribute to its reputation for stability on uneven ground. It operates reliably across a temperature range of -50°C to +40°C, though operations are restricted to conditions above -20°C to prevent icing on propulsion tracks and ensure amphibious functionality. Ground is 0.14 kg/cm².
MetricValue
Top speed (road)55 km/h
Top speed (water)3 km/h
Range (road)300 km
Gradient capability60%
Side-slope capability35° (approx. 70%)
Fuel consumption (off-road)50 L/100 km
Fuel capacity160 L
Operational temperature-50°C to +40°C
Ground pressure0.14 kg/cm²

Variants

Base and Standard Military Variants

The Bv 206 is the core standard variant of the Bandvagn 206, serving primarily as a troop and cargo carrier for general and logistics operations. It features a lightweight top for weather protection and basic bench seating in the rear compartment accommodating 11 passengers, in addition to the driver and up to 5 personnel in the front cab, enabling it to transport a total of approximately 1,700 kg across diverse terrains including , , and water. Trial batches of the Bv 206 were delivered to the starting in 1976, with serial production commencing in 1980 following successful evaluations. The Bv 206A is an version of the Bv 206, capable of carrying stretchers in the rear compartment. The Bv 206F is a fire appliance variant. The RaBv 2061 functions as a dedicated radio command , fitted with integrated communication systems including multiple radio sets and dedicated workstations for command staff to facilitate forward operational coordination. This variant retains the base model's mobility for rapid deployment in the field while prioritizing electronics for real-time communications, allowing a small team to manage and troop movements from within the . It is equipped with reinforced mounting points for additional radio antennas to extend signal range without compromising the transport role. Production of the base Bv 206 model exceeded 5,000 units, comprising the majority of the overall Bandvagn 206 series output of over 11,000 units and underscoring its role as the foundational platform. Common upgrades across these standard variants include standardized mounting points for supplementary radios to enhance communication capabilities during missions, as well as provisions for basic cargo securing systems to adapt to varying needs. These modifications ensure versatility in unarmed duties without altering the core articulated configuration.

Combat Support Variants

The variants of the Bandvagn 206 (Bv 206) were developed to enhance its role in tactical operations, adapting the base articulated tracked chassis for weapon systems and protective features suited to anti-tank, support, and reconnaissance tasks within the and allied operators. These variants typically feature open or semi-enclosed configurations to accommodate armament while retaining the vehicle's high mobility across , rough , and , with crew sizes adjusted for operational roles ranging from 3 to 6 personnel depending on the mission. The PvBv 2062 (Pansarvärnsbandvagn 2062) serves as an anti-tank platform equipped with a 90 mm Pvpj 1110 recoilless mounted in an open-top rear compartment, allowing for support against armored threats. This variant, introduced in the during the 1980s, emphasizes rapid deployment in and forested environments, with the capable of firing rounds to engage targets at ranges up to 1,000 meters. Its design integrates basic fire control optics for aiming, typically operated by a of four including a gunner and loader, prioritizing simplicity and compatibility with the Bv 206's all-terrain propulsion. The PvBv 2063 (Pansarvärnsbandvagn 2063) extends anti-tank capabilities with a guided system, fitted with a launch platform for either the Rbs 55 TOW or anti-tank guided s (ATGMs), enabling precision strikes on heavily armored vehicles from concealed positions. Entered service in the alongside the PvBv 2062, this open-top variant features a trainable mount for the launcher, supporting 360-degree traversal through manual adjustment, and includes wire-guided fire control systems for and tracking. The crew configuration, usually comprising a , gunner, and driver, allows for remote launch operations to minimize exposure, with ammunition storage for up to eight s in the rear unit. A dedicated mortar carrier variant of the Bv 206 accommodates an 81 mm or 120 mm mortar in the rear compartment, complete with integrated baseplate mounting and storage for 40-60 rounds of to provide mobile support for units. This configuration, utilized by the since the late 1970s, features a reinforced for absorption and a of five, including a mortar team, enabling rapid setup and firing cycles in forward positions while leveraging the vehicle's articulation for stable emplacement on uneven ground. Fire control is handled via manual sighting and ballistic computers, with the system designed for quick dismount and remount to maintain operational tempo. The RlBv 2068 functions as a and signals support vehicle, outfitted with advanced radio relay equipment, enhanced optical sensors for , and a pintle-mounted 7.62 mm for self-defense. Developed for the in the , it supports tactical by establishing secure communications links over extended ranges, with a crew of three to four operating the integrated radio systems and for real-time gathering. Unique to this role, the variant includes deployable masts for antenna elevation and encrypted transceivers, allowing integration into battalion-level networks without compromising mobility. Later upgrades to the Bv 206A incorporated add-on armor kits consisting of bolted steel plates and underbelly reinforcements, providing enhanced protection against mines, improvised explosive devices (IEDs), and small-arms fire up to 7.62 mm. These kits, applied to configurations starting in the for operations in conflict zones, increase the vehicle's survivability by deflecting blast forces and fragments, while maintaining amphibious capability through minimal added weight. Crew configurations in armored variants typically include additional protection for vital areas, with fire control systems upgraded for compatibility with ballistic vests and integrated vehicle intercoms.

Utility and Export Variants

The Bv 206S serves as an amphibious assault variant of the Bandvagn 206, featuring armored protection against fire and enhanced amphibious capabilities for marine operations, including a trim vane for improved and track propulsion achieving speeds up to 4.7 km/h in water. This configuration allows it to transport up to 13 personnel while maintaining the articulated design for challenging terrains, with the armor added to the body without significantly compromising mobility. The , also known as the "," is a Russian-licensed production of the Bandvagn 206 developed by under agreement with Hägglunds, tailored for extreme cold regions with the dual-unit articulated structure but incorporating Russian components alongside the to enhance reliability in sub-zero temperatures. Production began in 2012 at GAZ facilities, retaining the core design to reduce dependency on imports. The BvS 10 represents a modern successor to the Bandvagn 206, introduced post-2000 by Hägglunds with enhanced armor, increased internal volume, and compatibility with standards for modular mission configurations in harsh environments. It features a more powerful 5.9-liter diesel engine, improved ground clearance, and a redesigned chassis for better capacity up to 1,700 kg, while preserving amphibious operation via track . The BvS 10 variant builds on this as a heavy protected personnel carrier optimized for mine-resistant roles, incorporating underbody protection against anti-tank mines and , along with a for up to 12 troops in contested areas. This configuration supports interoperability through standardized interfaces for weapons and electronics, with deliveries to multiple allied forces commencing in the mid-2010s. Civilian adaptations of the Bandvagn 206 include conversions into expedition vehicles with luxury interiors for remote travel, snow grooming platforms for trail maintenance, and rescue configurations equipped with winches and medical modules for emergency response in off-road settings. In the United States, surplus Small Unit Support Vehicles (SUSV), the American military designation for the Bv 206, have been sold to civilians for applications like overland expeditions and search-and-rescue operations, often refurbished with modern diesel engines and custom cabins. In 2024, Belgian company John Cockerill began delivering modified Bv 206-based medical evacuation vehicles to for operations in challenging terrains. Export variants of the Bandvagn 206 have been supplied to over 37 countries, with customizations such as integrated weapon mounts and environmental adaptations for diverse climates, including and operations. Notable examples include deliveries to members like the and , where vehicles are modified for specialized roles such as beach recovery and personnel transport in amphibious exercises.

Operators

Military Operators

The Bandvagn 206 (Bv 206) serves as a key all-terrain carrier for various militaries, particularly in and rugged environments, with primary roles including troop transport, logistics support, and patrol operations. Developed initially for the starting in 1976, it has been acquired by over 30 countries through direct purchases and programs.

Current Operators

Sweden: The remain the largest operator, having acquired over 4,500 units since production began in the late , with more than 500 held in reserve as of 2025 for territorial defense and winter mobility tasks. Mid-life upgrades in the included integration of digital radios to enhance communication in remote operations. The Bv 206 continues to support rapid reaction forces, including 93 Bv 206S armored variants. Norway: The employ the Bv 206 for training and border security in northern regions, acquiring units in the to navigate snow, ice, and marshlands. It facilitates joint exercises with allies, such as U.S. Marines conducting lifts during Marine Rotational Force-Europe in Setermoen. Finland: The utilize the Bv 206 for winter conscript training and troop movement in forested and snowy terrains, with acquisitions dating to the complementing domestic vehicles like the . It supports towing operations and logistics in harsh conditions, as seen in routine military exercises. Canada: The Canadian Armed Forces operate approximately 47 Bv 206 units, primarily for patrols and high-mobility resupply, with service expected to continue into the 2030s pending replacement under the Domestic Arctic Mobility Enhancement project starting deliveries in 2029. Acquired in the 1980s, these vehicles enable operations in remote northern areas, carrying up to 17 personnel or 1,800 kg payloads across ice and . United States: The U.S. military designates the Bv 206 as the Small Unit Support Vehicle (SUSV), procuring over 1,000 units via in the 1980s for cold-weather logistics and infantry support in and Norway-based rotations. The U.S. Army and Marine Corps use it for tracked transport in exercises like those with the 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, emphasizing its amphibious capabilities in extreme environments. Austria: The acquired Bv 206D variants in 1994 for mountain and alpine operations, integrating them into the 6th Mountain Brigade for search-and-rescue and patrol duties in rugged terrain. These diesel-powered units support troops with high-mobility transport in snowy regions. Netherlands: The Royal Netherlands Army and operate the Bv 206 for amphibious and all-terrain missions, including deployments from vessels like ZrMS , with acquisitions in the focused on expeditionary logistics. Plans for successors were announced in 2020, but the fleet remains active for cold-weather training. Ukraine: Since 2022, has received over 100 Bv 206 units as from donors including (64 units pledged in 2023, plus additional batches of 10-14 in 2023-2024) and , with modernization by John Cockerill in 2024 converting dozens into ambulance variants for frontline evacuation. These vehicles aid mobility in muddy and winter conditions during ongoing conflicts. Other current military operators include (379 Bv 206D/S units), , (158 units), (300 units), , , , , , , , , and others such as , , , , , , , , , and .

Former Operators

United Kingdom: The acquired Bv 206 units in the 1980s for ' Arctic operations, with plans for full phase-out by 2030 in favor of new Future All-Terrain Vehicles. Refurbishments occurred in 2024, and surplus vehicles have entered civilian sales since 2020. They were used for high-north troop carriage and exercises in .

Civilian Operators

The Bandvagn 206 has found extensive application in civilian sectors, particularly for operations in extreme environments where its articulated tracked design excels in snow, ice, mud, and water. In research expeditions, organizations such as the (BAS) utilize the vehicle for hauling equipment and personnel across ice sheets, often transported via support vessels like HMS Protector, which deploys multiple BV 206 units to BAS stations. Similarly, the Australian Antarctic Program employs Hägglunds BV 206 vehicles at stations like Mawson for and transport in polar conditions, requiring specialized operator training for safe navigation over challenging terrain. These roles leverage the vehicle's amphibious capabilities and capacity for up to 17 passengers or substantial cargo payloads. In search-and-rescue operations, especially in alpine and remote areas, the 206 supports emergency response teams by providing reliable mobility over uneven or snow-covered ground. For instance, Bay Search and in the UK operates the vehicle for rapid deployment in rugged terrains, benefiting from its low ground pressure and ability to ford up to 1 meter deep. In , firms like Safety One Training highlight its use in rescue and recovery missions across streams, rocks, and , where it has been approved for three-season operations on sensitive landscapes. Oil exploration activities in also rely on surplus BV 206 units for transporting crews and gear through boggy or icy terrains, as noted by local operators adapting them for industrial access in remote fields. Private companies play a key role in distributing and customizing surplus BV 206 vehicles to civilian buyers. Hägglunds USA facilitates sales in the United States, offering models suitable for commercial applications such as remote site access and outings. Tracked Outdoors LLC specializes in refurbishing and custom-building these vehicles, installing modern engines like R2.8 diesels for enhanced performance in non-military contexts. By 2025, thousands of demilitarized surplus units have entered civilian markets globally through such dealers, enabling widespread adoption in , services, and industry. Civilian adaptations of the BV 206 include conversions for specialized tasks, such as with integrated 800-liter water tanks and pumps for off-road incident response, as seen in units operated by Fire & Rescue Service. Medical evacuation variants feature bespoke bodies accommodating up to four stretchers, supplied to organizations for alpine or flood-prone areas. For , modified versions support snow safaris in Scandinavian regions, capitalizing on the vehicle's stability for guided expeditions over deep . These modifications often involve engine swaps to compliant diesel units for emissions standards and demilitarization processes, including removal of military hardware, to meet export regulations in countries like the and . Notable civilian deployments include disaster relief efforts, such as the BV 206's use in European plane crash rescues in the late and ongoing firefighting responses in the , where its all-terrain prowess aids in accessing hard-to-reach sites during emergencies. In polar contexts, teams have employed it for recovery operations, demonstrating its durability in prolonged sub-zero conditions.

References

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