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MRAP Cougar
The MRAP Cougar is one of the most famous and effective Mine Resistant Ambush Protected vehicles, which has become a symbol of the transition to new standards of personnel safety in armed conflicts of the 21st century. This armored vehicle was developed by the American company Force Protection Inc. and has been successfully used by the military of various countries around the world for over two decades.
Historical background to the creation of the MRAP Cougar
The emergence of the Cougar armored vehicle is directly linked to the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. At that time, the US and allied forces suffered mass casualties from mines and improvised explosive devices. Standard equipment did not provide an adequate level of protection, so there was a need for a specialized armored vehicle with a unique architecture.
That's when the Cougar MRAP was developed—a vehicle with a V-shaped bottom that could deflect the energy of an explosion away from the crew. This solution significantly increased survivability, and the platform became the basis for a whole family of modifications.
Technical characteristics and design of the Cougar
The base model Cougar H (4×4) has the following parameters:
length – 5.91 m
width – 2.74 m
height – 2.64 m
weight – from 14.5 to 17.2 tons depending on configuration
The 330 hp Caterpillar C-7 engine allows it to reach speeds of up to 105 km/h and cover over 900 km without refueling. The V-shaped hull bottom, armored body, and shock-absorbing seats greatly increase crew survivability. Inside, the Cougar can carry up to nine personnel, including the crew.
Notably, the universal turret supports 7.62 mm and 12.7 mm machine guns as well as 40 mm automatic grenade launchers, making the Cougar not only a transport vehicle but also a combat support asset.
Modifications and global use of the Cougar armored vehicle
Over the years, the MRAP Cougar has received dozens of versions:
HEV (Hardened Engineer Vehicle) – engineering variant
JERRV (Joint EOD Rapid Response Vehicle) – specialized demining vehicle
ISS – version with improved suspension
Ridgback and Mastiff – British adaptations
Wolfhound and Timberwolf – variants for the UK and Canada
RADBO – airfield ordnance disposal/clearance vehicle
Ukraine has also received a number of these vehicles as part of international military aid. The Cougar has already proven its effectiveness on Ukrainian roads, saving lives during combat missions.
The use of the Cougar in Ukraine underscores the importance of a comprehensive approach to logistics and maintenance. Companies specializing in army support play a key role; for example, BMS provides services from spare-parts supply to organizing repairs and sustaining armored fleets.
The Cougar MRAP has become a benchmark among modern combat vehicles. Its unique protection, power, and versatility make it indispensable in high-risk areas. For Ukraine, the Cougar has both symbolic and practical significance—it increases unit survivability, boosts confidence, and helps accomplish the toughest missions.
