Israel Launches Namer Armored Infantry Fighting Vehicle Program

The latest design of the Namer AIFV based on the Merkava Mk 4 depicting sloped hybrid armor protecting the fighting compartment, remotely operated weapon station, multiple smoke canisters embedded into the armor and Trophy active protection modules covering both sides, with threat warning radar modules protecting the vehicles four quadrants.

In July 2007 the Israel Defense Forces launched the Namer (Leopard in Hebrew) Armored Infantry Fighting Vehicle (AIFV) program, funding a pilot production of 15 of the tracked vehicles in 2008. The program is a major element in the IDF land forces' five-year modernization plan. Currently in formation the plan is expected to finalize this month. Eventually, the IDF plans to buy few hundreds AIFVs, providing the infantry with the level of protection and mobility matching those of the latest Merkava Mk 4 tanks.

The vehicle is armed with RAFAEL's Mini-Samson Remotely Controlled Weapon Station with multi-sensor target acquisition systems. The system mounts a 12.7mm M2HB heavy machine gun, 7.62mm M246 machine gun or M19 40mm automatic grenade launcher. The IDF considers developing future multi-purpose support versions of the Namer, armed with the Samson weapon station, mounting much heavier 30mm automatic cannons as well as the Spike guided weapons. The current design of the Namer is already prepared for such installations, offering protected storage for weapons separated from the fighting compartment and strengthened roof able to carry the extra loads.



The vehicle accommodates 11 soldiers, including commander and driver. It also has attachments for carrying stretchers. The Namer uses a slightly redesigned door/ramp, enabling more efficient offload of soldiers and equipment and handling of stretchers.