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ROTEM KW1 Scorpion

2017 ARMORED PERSONNEL CARRIER MODERN

History

Following the global shift to wheeled armoured combat vehicles (AFVs), the Republic of Korea (South Korea) Army began introducing this new lineup in 2017 with the domestically designed, developed and produced ROTEM KW1 "Scorpion". product. Classified as an armored personnel carrier (APC), the KW1 can quickly transport up to 10 combat-equipped troops and their two crew members with some protection.

Design work ran from 2012 to 2016 (by Hyundai Rotem), and the company also brought its manufacturing capabilities to the production line. The vehicle exists in two main forms, 6x6 and 8x8 wheel arrangements. The South Korean Army will commission both types under a contract for hundreds of units.

When in service with the Korean Army, the 6x6 wheeled model was officially designated "K806" and the 8x8 model was designated "K808".

Power comes from a Hyundai Motor Company 420 hp domestic diesel engine (mated to a seven-speed automatic transmission). The chassis features an independent HSU suspension system for excellent off-road capability. Road speeds can reach over 60 miles per hour, and the operating range is up to 500 miles. This gives KW1 the ability to keep up with the main force. The Scorpion is amphibious, allowing it to traverse water at a speed of just over 6 miles per hour (for this purpose, two water jets are installed in the lower rear corners of the fuselage).

Armor protection up to 7.62mm caliber (small arms fire) and artillery jetting - so the KW1 is not strictly a direct contact design (unlike an infantry fighting vehicle). The structure includes fully welded armor plates that can be attached for additional protection.

Crew enters and exits the vehicle through doors in the rear of the hull. There are also roof hatches for the crew and occupants.

Gross weight is within 16 tons. Dimensions include a length of 22 feet, a width of 8.9 feet, and a height of 6.9 feet.

The KW1 carries a 40mm Automatic Grenade Launcher (AGL) as its primary weapon, supplemented by a 7.62mm machine gun. They are mounted in the Remote Weapon Station (RWS) above the top of the fuselage. Additionally, all personal weapons carried by the crew are functional.

The smoke grenade launcher has a self-checking capability. Complete NBC (Nuclear, Biological, Chemical) kit available. Run-flat tires are standard. Other weapon options include a 30mm automatic cannon and a 12.7mm heavy machine gun. A manned turret can also replace the RWS.

Like other multi-round designs, the KW1 demonstrates the versatility of its design by being able to fulfill a variety of battlefield roles, including fire support, air denial, command post, anti-tank missile carrier (ATGM) and medical evacuation platform .