XM93 Fuchs (nuclear, biological, chemical reconnaissance vehicle)
Originally developed for the German Army, the Fuchs (German for Fox) nuclear, biological and chemical (NBC) reconnaissance vehicle has been an example of the tactical state of the art for land warfare; XM93 is the US designation. This system, in various versions, is used by Germany, the Netherlands, Saudi Arabia, Norway, the UK, the US and UAE. German forces first used it in Kosovo, but the US bought the German units for use in the Gulf War, after modifying it into the XM93. [1]
This vehicle can keep up with moving troops, detecting liquid and vapor hazards. Newer versions have enhanced radiation survey, meteorological, chemical, and biological sensors, as well as computer support. The newer systems are intended for both a NBC battlefield and release other than attack (ROTA) events. ROTA events include industrial accidents as well as terrorist incidents. Its computer systems, complemented by meteorological information and signature information on the NBC agents, can predict propagation and report it using tactical symbols and NBC reports NATO standards ATP45(B).
The original chemical analysis capability is built around an MM-1 mobile mass spectrometer and air/surface sampler. The US version adds the M43A1 detector component of the first US automatic chemical detector, the 1970s vintage M8.
In the U.S. Army, however, it is being replaced by the M1135 nuclear, biological, chemical reconnaissance vehicle.
References
- ↑ Special Assistant for Gulf War Illnesses Medical Readiness, and Military Deployments (March 14, 2001). Information Paper: The Fox NBC Reconnaissance Vehicle. US Department of Defense.