KMW Fennek Forward Artillery Observer Specsheet

Fennek Forward Artillery Observer Free PDF Specsheet

Presented below are the full technical specifications for the Fennek Forward Artillery Observer variant, a 4×4 armored military vehicle developed by KNDS Group. Engineered for durability and adaptability, the Fennek is designed to operate reliably in challenging environments.

With its flexible design, The Fennek vehicles fulfills a variety of military and defense roles, including troop transport, equipment carriage, and reconnaissance missions. For a comprehensive overview of its features, performance, and capabilities, a free downloadable PDF specsheet is available.

Fennek Forward Artillery Observer Technical Specifications

Download Fennek Forward Artillery Observer PDF Specsheet

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**KMW Fennek Forward Artillery Observer**
Image by KMW via Wikimedia Commons

Chassis

The FENNEK is powered by a 6.6-liter, inline 6-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine delivering 240 Hp and over 819 Nm of torque, providing a favorable power-to-weight ratio for a vehicle in its class. The drivetrain is integrated with a fully automatic transmission system featuring six forward gears, one reverse gear, and a two-speed transfer case, ensuring constant four-wheel drive (4WD) capability for optimized off-road performance.

The suspension architecture comprises front and rear independent axles with coil springs, telescopic shock absorbers and torsion bar, enhancing vehicle stability and ride quality across uneven and rugged terrains. The platform rides on 365 /80 R20 tubeless run-flat tires, supported by a Central Tire Inflation System (CTIS), allowing real-time tire pressure modulation to adapt to varying surface conditions.

Braking performance is ensured through a dual-circuit air-over-hydraulic system with ventilated disc brakes on all wheels, supplemented by an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).

Weight and Dimensions

The Forward Artillery Observer variant of the FENNEK family has an approximate curb weight of approximately 9,600 kilograms and supports a payload capacity of around 2,400 kilograms, resulting in a total Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of 12,000 kilograms. The vehicle’s dimensions include a length of 5,670 millimeters, a height of approximately 2,400 millimeters, and a width of approximately 2,670 millimeters. It is built on a 3,100-millimeter wheelbase and provides a ground clearance of 400 millimeters, enabling superior mobility across challenging terrain and effective maneuverability over obstacles.

Performance

Designed for optimal performance in demanding environments, the FENNEK delivers an impressive power-to-weight ratio of approximately 20 horsepower per ton. It can achieve a top speed of 112 km/h and has an operational range of up to approximately 900 kilometers. With approach and departure angles of 35° and 36°, respectively, the vehicle excels in negotiating steep inclines and uneven terrain. Its turning radius of approximately 6.5 meters ensures agile handling, while its fording capability allows it to traverse water obstacles up to 1000 millimeters deep. Enhanced off-road performance is further supported by a 60% grade ability and the ability to navigate lateral slopes of up to 35%.

Protection and Armament

The KNDS FENNEK is built to deliver reliable protection and survivability in modern reconnaissance and support missions. Its armored hull is designed to resist small arms fire and explosive threats, including improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and mines, while maintaining a low profile to enhance stealth and reduce detectability. The vehicle’s compact design and reduced thermal signature contribute to its survivability in high-risk environments. In terms of armament, the FENNEK can be fitted with a remote weapon station (RWS) or manual mounts capable of carrying a 7.62 mm or 12.7 mm machine gun, or a 40 mm automatic grenade launcher. This versatility allows it to perform a wide range of operational tasks—from reconnaissance and surveillance to defensive fire support—while ensuring crew safety.

Features

The FENNEK Forward Artillery Observer variant is specifically designed to support precision targeting and fire coordination for artillery units. It accommodates a crew of up to three personnel and features a compact, low-profile design optimized for stealth and battlefield survivability. Equipped with an advanced sensor mast that includes day/night optics, laser rangefinders, and GPS targeting systems, the vehicle enables accurate identification and designation of targets from concealed positions. Its integrated C4ISR capabilities support secure, real-time communication with artillery batteries and higher command elements, ensuring rapid and coordinated fire missions. The modular design allows for the inclusion of additional observation and communication systems based on mission requirements. Like other FENNEK variants, it is fully air-transportable via aircraft such as the C-130 Hercules, C-160 Transall, and C-17 Globemaster III, and is sling-load capable beneath CH-47 Chinook helicopters, providing excellent strategic and tactical mobility across varied operational environments.