At AUSA in Washington next week Plasan and ASFIR 4×4 will unveil Stormer, a new highly modular light tactical special operations vehicle (SOV) designed to meet the evolving needs of SOF and similar units for whom mobility, payload capacity, rapid deployment and operational flexibility are critical requirements.
The companies developed Stormer as a versatile tactical platform, combining the logistical simplicity of a commercial vehicle with the capability and flexibility required for demanding military operations. With a capacity of 12 personnel and a useful payload in excess of 1,000kg, Stormer a proven commercial platform with a reinforced chassis and driveline, high off-road mobility and a highly configurable mission architecture. Designed for airborne transport and rapid deployment, it enables operators to move personnel and mission equipment across demanding terrain.
Under the skin, Stormer is a rugged Jeep Gladiator-based COTS platform, enhanced through Plasan’s automotive engineering expertise. The vehicle is powered by a 280hp, 3.6l gasoline engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, providing the power and manoeuvrability required for demanding operational environments. Reinforced chassis and driveline, including upgraded Dana axles, are designed to support increased payload and durability, while a modular roll-over protection system provides enhanced occupant protection and supports 360° visibility and situational awareness.
Stormer is designed to adapt rapidly to changing mission requirements. Its configurable rear platform can support troop transport, logistics, MEDEVAC, weapons, and specialised mission equipment, including radar, counter-UAS solutions and communications systems, as well as an electric winch. A three-position folding rear door enables rapid troop ingress and egress, secure transport of mission equipment and a stretcher configuration for casualty evacuation.
The vehicle also incorporates a 24v electrical system, blackout driving capability, a communications console and multiple antenna mounting points, supporting the integration of customer-specific mission systems. The extensive use of commercially available components is intended to simplify maintenance, logistics and long-term sustainment. It builds on Plasan’s 40+ years’ experience in survivability, vehicle protection and automotive engineering, as well as its proven track record with the SandCat family, which is in service on five continents. Stormer combines Plasan’s defence engineering and survivability expertise with ASFIR 4X4’s extensive experience in off-road vehicle systems and components. “Stormer was developed to address a growing operational requirement for a rapidly deployable platform capable of carrying larger teams and mission equipment without compromising mobility. By combining a proven commercial platform with Plasan’s engineering expertise, we created a highly adaptable vehicle that can be configured for multiple missions while remaining simple to operate, maintain, and sustain,” explained Plasan CEO, Moshe Elazar.
Tzachi Oz, ASFIR 4×4’s CEO, added: “Our collaboration with Plasan enabled us to transform a proven commercial 4×4 platform into a practical and highly capable tactical solution. Stormer delivers the mobility, flexibility, and robustness required by demanding users while maintaining the reliability and supportability of a commercial vehicle platform.”
Headline image: Stormer will be unveiled at Plasan’s AUSA booth on 12 October at 3pm local. (Plasan)
