Alkali MRAP; a new product designed by Nigeria’s DICON/NAVMC has been developed to cater for the protection of troops against improvised explosive devices and small arms.
The Defence Industry of Nigeria (DICON), and the Nigerian Army Vehicle Manufacturing Company (NAVMC) created the Alkali MRAP after leveraging on the experiences gathered by troops over the years on the battlefield.
Both Nigerian defence companies had earlier designed the battle-proven Ezugwu MRAP which has seen several iterations over time.
DICON which was established by an Act of Parliament in 1964, is tasked with the responsibility to produce weapons and other equipment for the country’s Armed Forces and reduce reliance on reluctant foreign suppliers.
The ALKALI MRAP appears to be in the same weight class as the Ezugwu, and name after the inspector General of Police Alkali Usman Baba.
Alkali MRAP is in use with the Nigerian Police.
The Alkali MRAP shares similar design characteristics with the Ezugwu MRAP, and most likely share the same chassis and drivetrain which is the Tatra 4×4 heavy duty chassis which features an independent suspension system, a 4×4 wheel drive and a 615 WD turbo Diesel engine, mounted in the front of the armored hull.
The Alkali MRAP can withstand small arms fire ranging from 7.62 mm to 12.7 mm from a distance of 10 metres, as well as Improvised explosive and mine blast up to 9 kg under the vehicle.
The turret which can traverse 360 degrees, and can mount machine guns with calibre from 7.69 mm to 12.7 mm.
Alkali MRAP also has a Telescopic surveillance mast for improved situational awareness and surveillance.
The MRAP seats nine fully equipped personal, including the driver and squad commander.
The lack of a credible Nigerian made weapons production capacity has severely limits the Nigerian military’s campaign against the Jihadi group Boko Haram.
The Alkali MRAP along with the Ezugwu was designed to remedy the problem. The vehicle will be deployed to the various theater in Nigeria after undergoing comprehensive field tests.