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Strf 9040/56 RB56 ATGM launcher

Strf 9040/56 ATGM Launcher in the firing position

The Strf 9040/56 is a former prototype of a modified Strf 9040A (Mk0) fitted with a dual RB56 ATGM launcher mounted on the right side of the turret. The vehicle was used to see if it was possible to  give the Strf 9040 an Anti-Tank capability, much like the American Bradley IFV.

The trials tested not only the RB56’s capabilities in detection, tracking, targeting and armor penetration, but also the modifications required to install the complete system and the practicality of these modifications.

The Strf 9040/56 prototype was ordered in 1999 and after completing trials the project was eventually dropped due to performance issues with the system.

Strf 9040/56 System

The main launcher (Green) was located on the right side of the turret and had 2 launching tubes. Just like the Bradley TOW launcher, when stowed it folded down and for the firing position erected into a horizontal position with both the rear and front firing hatches open.

Detection and tracking was via an added panoramic sight (Bright Blue) on the turret roof connected to an additional flat screen monitor in the Gunners station. 7 spare ATGM were stored on the left side of the hulls rear in a vertical position. This required 1 of the flat infantry roof hatches to be replaced with a boxed one (Dark Blue) to accommodate the ATGM’s height.

BILL-1 ATGM Missile

The RBS 56 BILL is a Swedish guided anti-tank missile developed by AB Bofors. Development began in 1979 and entered production in 1985, entering service with 5 countries including Sweden.

It uses a semi-automatic command to line of sight (SACLOS) with wire-guidance. It has a muzzle velocity of 250 m/s and an effective maximum range of 2,200m (2.2Km). In the late 1990s production shifted to the BILL 2. The Swedish army received the first deliveries of the BILL 2 in 1999.

Strf 9040/56 Specifications

Firepower
Main Gun 40mm (Bofors) auto-cannon
Elevation -8 to +35
Secondary Weapons x1 coaxial 7.62mm MG
Ammunition Storage x? 40mm, x? 7.62mm
Mobility
Engine Scania DS14 550hp Diesel
Transmission Perkins X300 Series x4 speed forward/x2 reverse
Top Road Speed 70 km/h
Road Range 600km
Fuel Capacity 525 litres
Vertical Obstacle 1m
Water Capability 1.4m
Trench Crossing 2.4m
Gradient 60%
Side Slope 40%
Dimensions
Length Gun Forward 6.47m
Length Hull ?m
Width
3.003m
Height 2.5m (Turret Top)
Ground Clearance 0.45m
Weight 22,800+kg aka 22.8 tonne combat
Protection
NBC Protected Yes
Armor Type Steel
Active Protection Systems No
Crew
Commander Yes
Gunner Yes
Loader No
Driver Yes
Additional Crew
Troops Carried 8

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