Fully amphibious vehicle from China

China North Industries Corporation (NORINCO) is featuring a version of its most recent Amphibious Assault Vehicle (AAV) on its booth at Indo Defence in Jakarta, November 2-5.

The company is showing a model of the VN18 AAV, already in operation with the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) and which it is now beginning to market globally. Fully amphibious, propelled by twin waterjets offering a maximum amphibious speed of 25 km/h, the VN 18 carries a crew of three plus 11 dismounts. Armament consists of a 30mm cannon and coaxial 7.62mm MG in a two man turret, which also carries rail launchers for the HJ-73D RED ARROW anti tank guided weapon.

A direct fire version, the VN16, is also available. This has a power operated three man turret mounting a 105mm gun and a coaxial 7.62mm MG. The main armament has the capability of firing the GP2 laser-guided anti-armour munition, carrying a tandem HEAT warhead to an effective range of 5,000 metres.

Tim Mahon