Force Protection Ocelot Family

Ocelot (Foxhound) Overview

The Ocelot is a 4×4 armored vehicle designed and developed by Force Protection, later acquired by General Dynamics Land Systems. The Ocelot armored vehicle has been chosen by British Army for Afghanistan War. since then, vehicles are serving in different part of British Army. Ocelot vehicle family has three main variants: the “Ocelot Armored Petrol Vehicle (APV),” “Ocelot Utility Vehicle,” and “Ocelot GMRV“.

Ocelot (Foxhound) Chassis

The Ocelot armored vehicle is equipped with a 3.2L 6-cylinder turbodiesel engine, producing 272 horsepower and 610 Nm of torque. It features a fully automatic transmission with six forward gears, one reverse gear, and a two-speed transfer case, ensuring constant four-wheel drive. Its independent front and rear suspensions, fitted with stabilizers, torsion bars, and telescopic shock absorbers, provide outstanding stability and mobility over difficult terrain.

The vehicle is fitted with 335/80 R20 tubeless, run-flat tires and includes a Central Tire Inflation System (CTIS) that enables real-time tire pressure adjustments for different terrains. Its braking system consists of a dual-line hydraulic setup with disc brakes on all wheels, supplemented by an Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) for improved safety and control.

Ocelot (Foxhound) Weight and Dimensions

The Ocelot (Foxhound) measures 5,400 millimeters in length, 2,100 millimeters in width, and 2,350 millimeters in height, with a wheelbase of 3,660 millimeters. It has a curb weight of 5,500 kilograms and a payload capacity of 3,000 kilograms, resulting in a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of 8,500 kilograms. With a ground clearance of 350 millimeters, the vehicle is built for exceptional off-road performance, enabling it to navigate obstacles and operate effectively in challenging environments.

Ocelot (Foxhound) Performance

The vehicle features a 6-meter turning radius, allowing for agile maneuverability in confined spaces, and can ford water depths of up to 750 millimeters, making it capable of traversing wet and flooded terrains. It boasts a 60% gradeability for tackling steep slopes and can handle side inclines of up to 30%, ensuring stability on uneven surfaces. With approach and departure angles of 45° and 48°, respectively, the vehicle is well-suited for navigating rugged and inclined terrain. Capable of reaching a top speed of 110 km/h and covering up to 500 kilometers on a full tank, the Ocelot is designed for extended missions, offering exceptional mobility and adaptability in demanding environments.

Ocelot (Foxhound) Protection and Armament

The Force Protection Ocelot is designed with advanced ballistic protection for its crew compartment, shielding against small arms fire and shrapnel. Its reinforced structure enhances survivability by withstanding blast impacts from mines and improvised explosive devices (IEDs) beneath the vehicle or its wheels according to STANAG 4569

In addition to its protective features, the Ocelot is built to accommodate various armament systems, including manual or remote-controlled turrets, cupolas, and weapon mounts. These configurations can support machine guns, grenade launchers, or other mission-specific weaponry, ensuring adaptability across different operational scenarios.

Ocelot (Foxhound) Variants

Ocelot Armored Patrol Vehicle (APV)

Back to top of the page ↑

Ocelot Utility Vehicle

Back to top of the page ↑

Ocelot GMRV

Back to top of the page ↑

Development Story of the Force Protection Ocelot (Foxhound)

The story of the Force Protection Ocelot began in response to a pressing need identified by the British Ministry of Defence (MoD) in the late 2000s. British forces operating in Iraq and Afghanistan faced an escalating threat from IEDs and direct fire attacks. The Snatch Land Rover, originally designed for lower-threat environments like Northern Ireland, proved tragically vulnerable in these new asymmetric battlefields, leading to significant casualties and public concern. The MoD urgently sought a Light Protected Patrol Vehicle (LPPV) that could offer significantly enhanced protection against blasts and ballistic threats, while still being compact and agile enough for patrol and reconnaissance duties in complex terrain and urban areas.

The LPPV program was initiated, seeking a replacement that would embody a new philosophy of protection. Force Protection Europe, a subsidiary of the prominent US-based Force Protection Inc. (a company renowned for its larger MRAP vehicles like the Cougar and Buffalo), teamed up with Ricardo plc, a leading British automotive engineering company, to form “Team Ocelot.” This collaboration aimed to leverage Force Protection’s expertise in blast-resistant vehicle design and Ricardo’s vast experience in automotive innovation and rapid prototyping.

The design philosophy behind the Ocelot was radical and innovative. Unlike many MRAPs that were essentially armored versions of existing commercial truck chassis, the Ocelot was conceived from the ground up as a bespoke protected vehicle. A key feature of its design is its modularity, centered around a “V-shaped armored spine” or “skateboard” chassis. This central armored core houses the engine, transmission, fuel tank, and other critical components, providing a high degree of protection for the vehicle’s vitals. The V-shape is crucial for deflecting blast energy from underbody explosions away from the vehicle.

Mounted onto this protected spine is a demountable, interchangeable “crew pod.” This innovative concept allows for various mission-specific pods to be quickly swapped in or out, transforming the vehicle from a patrol carrier to a protected logistics vehicle, a command and control platform, or even an ambulance, all utilizing the same protected chassis. The crew pod itself is constructed from advanced composite materials, offering ballistic protection comparable to traditional metal armor but at a significantly lighter weight, contributing to the Ocelot’s agility and reduced fuel consumption. Blast-attenuating seats within the crew pod further enhance occupant safety by absorbing shock energy from explosions.

The Ocelot underwent extensive and rigorous testing, including numerous live blast tests, to ensure its survivability against a range of threats. Its independent, double-wishbone suspension system was designed to provide exceptional off-road mobility and a smooth ride, even in challenging terrain. The wheels were designed to function independently, meaning the vehicle could potentially continue to operate even if one wheel was lost to a blast. The vehicle was also designed for rapid maintenance, with a claimed ability to remove and replace the entire engine in under 30 minutes, minimizing downtime in operational theaters.

In September 2009, the Ocelot was publicly launched. Following comprehensive trials against other contenders, in September 2010, the Ocelot was selected as the preferred bidder for the UK’s LPPV program. This decision marked a significant turning point, affirming its superior design and protection capabilities. The first production vehicles, officially renamed Foxhound by the British Army to align with their canine-themed vehicle naming convention (e.g., Mastiff, Ridgeback, Wolfhound), began deliveries for training in 2011, with full operational deployment to Afghanistan commencing thereafter.

Unveiling the Ocelot: Exhibitions Before and After Launch

Defense exhibitions are critical venues for showcasing new military hardware, allowing manufacturers to demonstrate capabilities to potential clients and gain industry attention. The Force Protection Ocelot (Foxhound) made a significant impact from its very first public appearance, underscoring its innovative design and advanced protection.

The prototype of the Force Protection Ocelot was first publicly unveiled in September 2009 at the Defence Systems and Equipment International (DSEi) exhibition in London, UK. DSEi (now DSEI London) is a leading global event that brings together the defense and security industry. This debut was a crucial moment, as it introduced a radically new approach to light protected vehicles, emphasizing its modularity and high levels of blast and ballistic protection in a compact package. The Ocelot immediately drew considerable attention due to its innovative design and its direct relevance to the urgent operational requirements stemming from conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq.

Following its selection as the preferred LPPV for the British Army and its renaming to Foxhound, the vehicle continued to be a prominent feature at subsequent exhibitions, often showcasing its various configurations and enhanced capabilities.

• At the International Armoured Vehicles (IAV) 2011 exhibition in London in February 2011, Force Protection presented the new Ocelot’s utility variant. This display allowed them to show the different configurations the vehicle could adopt, leveraging its modular pod system. It highlighted the vehicle’s versatility beyond a standard troop carrier, including its potential for command and control or logistical support.
• In June 2011, at the Protected Mobility Display & Sustainability Conference (held at Millbrook in the UK), Force Protection Europe unveiled the Ocelot vehicle weapons pod variant. This variant demonstrated the Ocelot’s capability to be fitted with various weapon systems, showcasing its potential for fire support and special operations teams.
• The Ocelot was also showcased for international export markets. For instance, in February 2011, Force Protection delivered two Ocelot variants (a utility and a command variant) to Australia for testing as part of their Land 121 Phase 4 Project for Protected Mobility Vehicle – Light (PMV-L). These vehicles would have been showcased at events like the Avalon 2011 Australian International Air Show, which also featured a Land Defense exhibition, further broadening the Ocelot’s international exposure.

These exhibitions were not merely static displays; they were dynamic opportunities for Force Protection (and later General Dynamics Land Systems UK) to engage with potential customers, demonstrate the Ocelot’s unique modularity, and highlight its proven protection levels, solidifying its position in the global market for light protected vehicles.

Elite Deployment: Users and Operators

The Force Protection Ocelot, known as the Foxhound in British Army service, has seen its primary and most significant deployment with the United Kingdom Armed Forces. It was specifically procured to replace the vulnerable Snatch Land Rover and has become a core element of the British Army’s protected mobility fleet.

The British Army initially ordered a significant number of Foxhound vehicles, with the first deliveries commencing for training in 2011 and deployment to Afghanistan soon after. The Foxhound is used by various units across the British Army for a wide range of roles, including:

• Light Protected Patrols: This is its most common role, providing protected transport for infantry and reconnaissance teams during patrols in high-threat areas.
• Liaison and Command: Its protected cabin and modularity make it suitable for carrying command elements and their communications equipment, providing a mobile and secure command post.
• Specialized Roles: The interchangeable pods allow for rapid reconfiguration into roles such as protected logistics, route clearance support, or even a light ambulance, adapting to the specific demands of a mission. It is particularly used by infantry units on security force assistance (SFA) and mentoring missions.

Beyond its primary role as an LPPV, the Foxhound is also utilized for training purposes within the UK, ensuring that military personnel are proficient in operating and maintaining the vehicle in various scenarios.

While the Foxhound has been extensively adopted by the UK, its export success to other nations has been limited, primarily due to its highly specialized design to meet specific British operational requirements. However, the Ocelot was considered for other international programs:

• Australia (Land 121 Phase 4): As mentioned, the Ocelot was down-selected for Australia’s Protected Mobility Vehicle – Light (PMV-L) program, with two variants (utility and command) sent for testing in 2011. While the Ocelot was a strong contender, Australia ultimately chose the Thales Hawkei for its PMV-L requirement. This competition, however, highlighted the Ocelot’s capabilities on an international stage.

The Ocelot’s design, initially a private venture and then tailored for the urgent needs of the British Army, made it highly suited for the specific threats faced by UK forces. Its focus on maximum crew protection in a smaller, agile package made it a unique and effective solution for the British military’s operational challenges.

Used Operations, Conflicts, and Wars

The true measure of a military vehicle’s effectiveness lies in its performance in real-world operational environments. The Force Protection Ocelot, known as the Foxhound in British service, was procured and deployed specifically to address urgent operational requirements in high-threat zones, and it has consistently demonstrated its life-saving capabilities.

The most significant and demanding operational theater for the Foxhound has been Afghanistan (Operation Herrick / ISAF). The vehicle was deployed to Afghanistan shortly after its entry into service in 2011, directly replacing the vulnerable Snatch Land Rovers. In Afghanistan, British forces faced a persistent and deadly threat from Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), often deeply buried or camouflaged, and from small arms and rocket-propelled grenade (RPG) attacks.

The Foxhound’s advanced protection system, particularly its V-shaped hull and energy-absorbing crew pod, proved highly effective against these threats. Numerous reports from the field, though often not publicized in detail, confirmed the Foxhound’s ability to withstand significant blasts that would have catastrophically damaged less protected vehicles. The vehicle’s design was widely credited with saving the lives of its occupants in countless incidents, significantly reducing casualties among British troops. Its agility and off-road mobility were also crucial for navigating the challenging Afghan terrain, from dusty plains to rugged valleys, allowing for effective patrols and rapid response.

Following the withdrawal of major combat operations from Afghanistan, the Foxhound continued to serve with the British Army in other missions:

• Afghanistan (Operation Toral / Resolute Support Mission): Even after the combat role ended, British forces remained in Afghanistan as part of NATO’s Resolute Support Mission, focused on training, advising, and assisting Afghan security forces. The Foxhound continued to be the primary Light Protected Mobility vehicle for these duties, particularly for infantry operating on British-led multinational Kabul Security Force (KSF) duties. This included security patrols and providing protected transport in the relatively high-threat environment of Kabul and its surroundings.
• Training and Exercises: While its primary role was operational deployment, the Foxhound has also been extensively used in various training exercises globally. This ensures that British forces are well-drilled in its operation and maintenance, preparing them for future deployments in diverse environments.

The operational history of the Foxhound stands as a testament to its design success. It directly addressed a critical capability gap and proved to be an invaluable asset in safeguarding the lives of British soldiers in some of the most dangerous operational environments of the 21st century. Its transition from an urgent operational requirement (UOR) vehicle to a core fleet asset within the British Army further underscores its enduring value and proven performance in conflict.

A Modular Marvel: Contracts and Sales

The commercial journey of the Force Protection Ocelot, predominantly as the British Army’s Foxhound, is marked by significant contracts within the UK and notable international interest. The unique requirements and the urgency of its development shaped its sales trajectory.

The most substantial contracts for the Ocelot have come from the United Kingdom Ministry of Defence (MoD).

• Following its selection as the preferred LPPV in September 2010, the MoD placed an initial order for 200 Ocelot/Foxhound vehicles through an Urgent Operational Requirement (UOR) process in November 2010. This contract, valued at approximately £180 million, was critical for rapidly deploying the protected vehicles to troops in Afghanistan.
• In December 2011, a further 100 Foxhound vehicles were ordered as part of a larger £400 million package of protected vehicles and Counter-Improvised Explosive Device (C-IED) technology for British Forces. This brought the total number of Foxhounds ordered to 300 units.
• In 2012, an additional 25 vehicles were ordered, increasing the total British fleet to 325 Foxhounds. These later orders, sometimes integrated into broader defense procurement packages, highlight the continued demand for the vehicle and its integration into the core fleet rather than remaining solely a UOR asset.

The procurement process for the Foxhound was specifically structured to address an urgent operational need. While the vehicle’s initial production was managed by Force Protection Europe (a subsidiary of Force Protection Inc.), Force Protection Inc. itself was acquired by General Dynamics in November 2011. This meant that subsequent production and support of the Foxhound shifted to General Dynamics Land Systems UK, ensuring continued supply and maintenance.

Beyond the UK, the Ocelot’s modular design and proven protection did attract international attention. As mentioned, it was down-selected for Australia’s Land 121 Phase 4 Protected Mobility Vehicle – Light (PMV-L) program. While Australia ultimately chose the Thales Hawkei, the Ocelot’s presence in this competitive tender underscored its recognized capabilities on the global stage.

The Ocelot’s contract history reflects a successful response to a specific, urgent military requirement, leading to a substantial procurement by its home nation. While it did not achieve widespread export success like some other MRAPs, its impact on the British Army’s protected mobility capabilities has been profound.

Conclusion: The Foxhound’s Enduring Legacy of Protection

The Force Protection Ocelot, universally known as the Foxhound in British service, represents a significant chapter in the evolution of light protected military vehicles. Born from the harsh realities of asymmetric warfare in Iraq and Afghanistan, where traditional light utility vehicles proved tragically inadequate, its development was an urgent and innovative response to safeguard personnel.

From its striking debut at DSEi in 2009, the Ocelot immediately captured attention with its groundbreaking modular design, centered around a V-shaped armored spine and interchangeable crew pods. This innovative approach allowed for unprecedented levels of protection against blasts and ballistic threats in a compact, agile package, while also offering remarkable mission versatility. The collaborative effort between Force Protection Europe and Ricardo plc, leveraging their respective strengths in survivability and automotive engineering, created a vehicle that was both robust and highly mobile.

The Foxhound’s operational deployment to Afghanistan was its true proving ground. In the face of ubiquitous IEDs and direct fire engagements, the vehicle consistently demonstrated its ability to withstand severe attacks, saving countless lives and cementing its reputation as a genuine life-saver. Its agility and off-road prowess ensured it could operate effectively across the challenging and varied terrains of the conflict zone.

The British Army’s substantial procurement of the Foxhound, through a series of urgent operational requirements and subsequent core fleet orders, underscores the vehicle’s critical importance and proven effectiveness. While its export success has been limited, its impact on British military operations and the protection of its personnel has been profound and enduring. The Foxhound’s transition from an emergency procurement to a mainstay of the British Army’s protected mobility fleet speaks volumes about its sustained relevance.

As the nature of warfare continues to evolve, the principles embodied by the Foxhound – high protection, modularity, and battlefield agility – remain crucial. It stands as a testament to how innovative design, driven by urgent operational needs, can fundamentally enhance troop survivability and enable forces to operate more effectively in the face of complex and dangerous threats. The Force Protection Ocelot, the British Army’s Foxhound, is indeed a resilient and vital component of modern armored mobility.

Similar Vehicles

Iveco LMV2

The Iveco LMV2 Light Multirole Vehicle is a 4-wheel armored military vehicle designed and developed by the Italian defence company Iveco Defence Vehicles. Technical specifications of all Iveco LMV2 Light Multirole Vehicle variants is here

Mowag Eagle

The Mowag Eagle is a 4-wheel armored military vehicle designed and developed by Swiss defense company Mowag, which was later acquired by General Dynamics Land Systems. Technical specifications of all Mowag Eagle variants here

Mercedes G-Class LAPV

The Mercedes G Class armored LAPV is a 4-wheel armored military vehicle designed and developed by the German defence company Mercedes Benz Defence Vehicles. Technical specifications of all Mercedes LAPV variants is here.

Uro Vamtac ST5

The Vamtac ST5 is a 4-wheels armored military vehicle designed and developed by Spanish defence company Urovesa. Technical specifications of all Uro Vamtac ST5 variants here.

AM General Humvee Saber

The AM General Humvee Saber is a 4×4 armored military vehicle designed and developed by the US defence company AM General. Technical specifications of all AM General Humvee Saber variants here.

Denel OMC RG32

The RG32 is a 4×4 armored military vehicle designed and developed by Denel OMC and BAE Systems. Technical specifications of all Denel OMC RG32 variants here.

Arquus Sherpa Light

The Arquus Sherpa Light is a 4-wheel armored military vehicle designed and developed by French defence company Arquus (formerly Renault Trucks Defense). Technical specifications of all Arquus Sherpa Light variants here.