At the beginning of the 1960s, there was an urgent need for suitable vehicles to transport the armored infantry. In addition to the American M-113, prototypes from SAURER and MOWAG were also tested, but unfortunately both were not sufficiently mature.

Ultimately, the decision was made in favor of the M-113 because the technical and financial risks associated with the Swiss prototypes being tested were considered too high.

Reliance was placed on the troop carrier, thousands of which had already been produced in the USA,

in which 3 men crew and 7 grenadiers found place.

In 1963, the Swiss Army procured around 800 infantry fighting vehicles in a first tranche of the armament program, including battle tanks, armored personnel carriers, armored engineer vehicles, and other versions.

Among our models:

The command version differs from the combat version by additional radio equipment, antennas, cable reels, canisters, etc. and inside by a lighting of the crew compartment, a built-in table, 2 monitors and a parking heater.

Initially, 60 Geniepanzers were ordered, which were then increased to 120 in the 2nd tranche. The number was increased to 120 for the second tranche. The vehicle was equipped with a hydraulically operated scraper blade. This made it possible to carry out grading and clearing work.

Technical data:

Unladen weight: 11,000 kg
Towing capacity: 6,600 kg
Length: 4,860 mm
Width: 2,680 mm
Height: 2,500 mm
Engine: General Motors 6-cylinder diesel
Displacement: 5,200 cc
Power: 204 hp
Top speed: 65 km/h

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