Land Rover Ranger Special Operations Vehicle (SOV)

History of the Land Rover Ranger Special Operations Vehicle (SOV)

In 1992, the US Army Rangers decided to introduce the RSOV to replace their M151 light gun vehicle. The decision to adopt this car was inspired by the Land Rover that the U.S. military saw in British use in the Gulf War. They found that the vehicle was easier to maneuver in desert terrain compared to the Humvee.

The initial purchase of 60 RSOVs was to meet the 12 RSOV requirement per battalion.

The RSOV was secretly deployed to support potential counterterrorism efforts to ensure the safety of those participating in the 1992 Summer Olympics in Spain, but they were kept out of the public eye.

Specification

Basics

Year of Service

1992

Origins

UK

Crew

3

Production

150

Manufacturer

Land Rover - UK

Operator

UK; US

Role

Recon

Can perform reconnaissance/reconnaissance missions to assess threat levels, enemy strength, etc. - usually due to lightweight construction.

A special design created to play an equally special role on the battlefield.

Dimensions and Weight

Length

14.4 feet

4.4m

width

5.9 feet

1.79m

Height

6.3 feet

1.93m

Power and Performance

Engine:

1 x 4-cylinder turbo diesel engine, power unknown.

Weapons

Variables: 1 x 12.7mm M2HB Heavy Machine Gun (HMG) 1 x 7.62mm M240B Medium Machine Gun (MMG) 1 x 40mm Saco Mk 19 Automatic Grenade Launcher (AGL) Any personal weapon made by Crew carried, including portable shoulder-launched anti-tank missiles (ATGMs).

AMMOTION

Depends on weapon.

VARIANTS

Ranger Special Operations Vehicle (RSOV) The name of the base family. Mortar Special Operations Vehicle (MORTSOV) - Mortar carrying variant; onboard load space for 30 x 120mm projectiles and appropriate mortar equipment (including the mortar unit itself).

Medical Special Operations Vehicle (MSOV) - Medical-specific variant with a folding frame; supports space for six patient nests and medical personnel.