Design
The wheeled Viking utilises a multitude of new designs from the Muddy Waters project.
Its remit was to provide high-speed deployment over a variety of terrains; from motorways to extreme off-road. The design settled on an 8x8 layout as this was deemed to be the ultimate design for all-round use. Capable of road speeds up to 80 mph. The 8x8 layout also gave excellent off-road capabilities. The British army wanted more though.
The new design uses in-hub electric wheel motors providing not only efficiency, but also high survivability. These wheels can also convert to a tracked format by deforming the rim into a tri-wheel track. This deformation can be carried out at speed (up to 20 mph) and provides increased off-road capabilities, increased traction, climbing abilities, soft ground suspension, and speed.
Each wheel is capable of independent movement providing conventional steering utilising just the front wheels with the rear wheels providing limited movement. At high-speeds the wheels can simultaneously turn in the same direction for easy lane changing abilities. For tight manoeuvres the wheels can turn in a multitude of directions. This enables the Viking to travel sideways and to turn around in almost its own length. Skid steering provides fast off-road manoeuvring.
Each wheel set is supported on four independent suspension arms. Each arm supports two wheels on a floating wheel carrier assembly. The suspension arm use electro-hydraulic dampers that are capable of keeping the cabin stable in a variety of conditions. At 670mm downward travel and 550mm upward travel gives the Viking previously unseen capabilities.
Cabin
The cabin is large and spacious capable of carrying 3 crew and 8 armoured infantry. A rear ramp and nearside ramp provide fast access and deployment under fire. All seats are forward facing with crash harnesses designed for armoured troops. these seats can be folded away prior to deployment.
Size is a limiting factor for the Viking.
- Length - 7.29 m
- Width - 2.91 m
- Height - 2.31 m (baseline vehicle with no turret)
With the reduction in size of powerplant, fuel, and drive train more space is provided for the crew including a replenishment station, wc, armoury, and command and control station.
Crew
The two crew sit in a carbon nanotube bath tub providing increased protection. The Viking is driven and operated using a 360x270 VR full colour simulation, VR visors and gloves with ICE connectivity.
Options
The base vehicle has limited offensive capability relying on the two upper hatches for soldiers to operate from. A remote turret can be fitted removing the rear most hatch. These turrets cut down on the available space inside the Viking. Without a turret 12 armoured infantry can be carried.
- 40mm Coilgun
- 40mm CT Canon
- 12 round Missile turret
- 650mm Grazer