Plasan’s Wilder is designed to bridge the gap between high-mobility buggies and traditional, heavier armored vehicles.
By Hezy Laing
Plasan, the renowned Israeli-based armored vehicle specialist, is generating significant interest across Europe with its new Wilder 4×4, a new 3.7-ton, ultra-light armored vehicle that redefines battlefield mobility.
Unveiled to high acclaim at Eurosatory 2022 in Paris, the Wilder is positioned as a mature, “designed to cost” solution targeting the needs of European special forces, reconnaissance units, and conventional patrol teams requiring rapid deployment and high protection levels.
Currently, the vehicle is considered at a high Technology Readiness Level, specifically TRL 7/8, making it a viable, immediate solution for European procurement agencies seeking to enhance their combat capabilities.
Plasan’s Wilder is designed to bridge the gap between high-mobility buggies and traditional, heavier armored vehicles.
Unlike light tactical vehicles (LTVs) that lack armor, the Wilder offers STANAG 4569 Level 2 protection for four occupants while maintaining the agility of an off-road racer.
It features a unique central driving position for superior visibility, a 420 Nm engine, and patented suspension offering 370mm of wheel travel.
Notably, it can be paired with Plasan’s ATeMM 6×6 module for hybrid capacity and offers a drive-by-wire system for remote operation.
Designed by Plasan’s team, including Nir Kahn, the Wilder offers a unique combination of protection and performance, effectively blurring the lines between lightweight buggies and heavier armored platforms.
Its core strength lies in its patented suspension system, allowing a massive 370 mm of wheel travel, enabling it to navigate harsh terrain with the agility of a racing machine.
It features a powerful engine delivering 420 Nm of torque through an 8-speed automatic gearbox, achieving excellent off-road mobility including 600 mm fording ability and 80% slope-climbing capability.
Safety and operational efficiency are at the forefront, featuring a central driving position that offers panoramic visibility to all four occupants within a comfortable, air-conditioned, monocoque kitted hull.
The Wilder provides STANAG 4569 Level 2 protection, offering, superior, defense, for soldiers against, ballistic threats, while remaining compact enough to be internally transportable within a CH-47 Chinook helicopter, a crucial factor for rapid deployment forces.
The rear cargo bed is designed to accommodate a full NATO pallet, providing versatile utility for long missions.
As of late 2023, an undisclosed NATO country has acquired the pre-production version, with others showing strong interest. The platform is also being tested by the British Army, and Plasan has partnered with Indian firms for regional opportunities.
The growing interest from European nations highlights a demand for vehicles that combine high speed and mobility with substantial armored protection suitable for both conventional warfare and urban operations.
Plasan’s design is also future-proofed, with the Wilder designed to accept a hybrid powerpack ensuring its relevance in upcoming greener defense initiatives within the European Union.
Its ability to deliver high-end features traditionally seen in vehicles twice its weight has made the Wilder a significant contender in European military procurement discussions following its successful presentation at Eurosatory.
