I'm re-posting the video from an earlier post on the
AAV-7SU in this thread. If you freeze the frame as the Major gives the tour you'll count 7 Port side & 8 Starboard side seats, leaving you with the following 3 Crew & 15 Combat Marines. Why the change? Allows for the additional protections and 675hp power-plant vice what I believe is currently a 525/or 550hp power-plant (
This off the top of my head.)
Also the space allows the SU to carry 3 days worth of supplies vs. current 1 day. Suhiir would have a better handle on this but, it is my understanding all previous and current mods could be outfitted with a center bench to allow for carry of 25 troops. My USMC HQ post said 21 which with outboard benches is doable but, I would think very cramped.
Bottom line...
1) Much better protected.
2) Armament upgrade still being looked at (Primarily some type of ATGW System.).
3) Faster at Sea and on Land it'll be much better at keeping up with armored units. However this is still being evaluated currently.
4) Increased terrain operability (SU is benefiting from the use of modified
BRADLEY suspension components and combat endurance as noted above.)
5) Assuming no issues during
10 unit operational evaluation currently ongoing, Low rate production by
2019, fielded by
2023 in service until current estimates run from
2033-2035.
Video again...
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QKlgq3RDu74
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dyAInmP4KMw
Second video (New.) about 22 seconds in,
freeze it, verifies my seat count. Note the Hi/Lo seat configuration this allows for the human bodies/seat configurations thus, increasing carry capability.
Been on this for a year now or so.
Regards,
Pat
