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Cougar MRAP Military Vehicle

Cougar MRAP Military Vehicle

Manufacturer: General Dynamics
Category: Tanks & Armored Vehicles
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Main Gun Caliber Optional (typically roof-mounted .50 cal / 40mm)
Engine Power 330 hp
Maximum Speed 55–65 mph (road)
Armor Type V-shaped monocoque hull with composite / ballistic protection (up to STANAG Level 3 equivalent)

Full Specifications

1. General Information

Vehicle Name	Cougar MRAP (CAT I / CAT II)
Type / Role	Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) Vehicle / Infantry Mobility
Manufacturer	General Dynamics Land Systems (formerly Force Protection, Inc.)
Country of Origin	United States (design influences from South Africa)
In Service	Yes (legacy / allied use)
Year Introduced	2004
Unit Cost	Approx. USD 475,000
Crew	2 + 4–8 passengers (variant dependent)

2. Dimensions & Weight

Length (Gun Forward)	~19.4 ft (5.91 m) 4x4; longer for 6x6
Width	9.0 ft (2.74 m)
Height	~8.7 ft (2.64 m)
Weight	32,000–52,000+ lb (curb to combat)
Ground Clearance	15 in (0.38 m)
Chassis Material	V-shaped monocoque hull

3. Performance

Engine Type	Caterpillar C-7 Diesel
Engine Power	330 hp
Power-to-Weight Ratio	Varies with load
Transmission	Allison 3500SP Automatic
Maximum Speed (Road)	55–65 mph (88–104 km/h)
Maximum Speed (Off-Road)	Reduced
Operational Range	350–600 miles (560–965 km)
Suspension Type	Wheeled (4x4 or 6x6) with run-flats

4. Armament

Main Gun	Optional remote weapon station (.50 cal MG, 40mm AGL, etc.)
Ammunition Capacity	Mission dependent
Secondary Armament	Firing ports; crew-served weapons
Gun Elevation/Depression	Varies by mount
Fire Control System	Basic / remote
Stabilization	N/A (vehicle stabilized mounts available)
Rate of Fire	Varies by weapon

5. Protection & Armor

Armor Type	Ballistic / Blast-resistant V-hull
Reactive Armor	Optional add-on packages
Active Protection System (APS)	Limited / upgrades available
NBC Protection	Yes (overpressure system)
Smoke Grenade Launchers	Optional
Fire Suppression System	Yes
Mine Protection	High (designed for IED/mine blasts)

6. Mobility & Capability

Maximum Gradient	Significant (off-road capable)
Side Slope	Capable
Trench Crossing	Limited (wheeled)
Vertical Obstacle	Moderate
Fording Depth	~39–40 inches (99 cm)
Turning Radius	Standard for size
Amphibious Capability	No

7. Sensors & Electronics

Fire Control Computer	Basic for weapon stations
Thermal Imaging	Optional / add-on
Night Vision	Compatible
Laser Rangefinder	On weapon systems
Ballistic Computer	Limited
Communication System	Secure military radios
Battlefield Management System	Compatible

8. Operational Info

Service Branch	U.S. Army, Marines, Air Force
Primary Operator	United States and allies
Combat Experience	Iraq, Afghanistan
Upgrade Packages	Various armor/ECW enhancements
Export Status	Available to approved allies
Production Status	Completed (legacy platform)

Our Rating

The overall rating is based on review by our experts

7.8

Maintenance Efficiency 7 / 10
Technology 8 / 10
Performance 8 / 10
Reliability & Maintenance 8 / 10

PROS

Exceptional blast and mine protection via V-hull design, saving numerous lives in combat.
Versatile configurations (4x4/6x6) for multiple mission types including EOD and convoy escort.
Reliable Caterpillar diesel engine with good range and off-road capability.
Air-transportable and equipped with run-flat tires for sustained mobility after damage.
Modular design allowing integration of remote weapons stations and upgrades.

CONS

Higher weight and size limit agility in tight urban spaces compared to lighter vehicles.
Fuel consumption can be high under heavy armor and load conditions.
Limited inherent firepower without add-on weapon systems.
Maintenance of specialized armor and systems requires dedicated logistics.
Larger turning radius and profile can pose challenges in dense terrain or confined areas.

Cougar MRAP: Proven Mine-Resistant Ambush Protection

The Cougar stands as one of the most successful Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicles fielded by U.S. forces. Developed in response to the growing threat of improvised explosive devices (IEDs) during operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, its V-shaped monocoque hull deflects blast energy away from the crew compartment, significantly improving survivability. Available in 4×4 and 6×6 configurations, the Cougar excels in troop transport, route clearance, explosive ordnance disposal (EOD), convoy security, and reconnaissance missions.

Manufacturer

Originally designed with roots in South African blast-protection technology, the Cougar was produced by Force Protection, Inc. (later acquired by General Dynamics Land Systems). It entered U.S. service around 2004 and saw widespread deployment.

Speed and Range

Powered by a Caterpillar C-7 7.2-liter diesel engine producing 330 horsepower, the Cougar achieves a maximum road speed of approximately 55–65 mph (88–104 km/h) depending on configuration and load. Operational range typically spans 350–600 miles (560–965 km), supported by run-flat tires and strong off-road performance.

Cost/Price

Unit cost is approximately $475,000 (early production figures), varying with configuration, armor upgrades, and mission kits.

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