Alvis OMC Casspir

The Casspir is a landmine-protected personnel carrier (APC) that has been in use in South Africa for over 20 years. It is a four wheeled armored vehicle, used for transport of troops. It can hold a crew of two, plus 12 additional soldiers and associated gear.

The Casspir was unique in design when launched, providing for passive mine defense. The main body of the vehicle is V-shaped and raised above the ground, so that if a mine is detonated, the explosion is less likely to damage the crew compartment and kill the occupants.

The cross-section of the hull is V-shaped, directing the force of the explosion outwards, further protecting the occupants. The name ‘Casspir’ is an anagram of the abbreviations of the customer, the South African Police (SAP), and the design company, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR).