Hobby Boss 84566 Bergepanzer BPz3A1 Buffalo ARV 1:35

The Bergepanzer 3A1 is an upgraded version of the Bergepanzer 3 Buffel. It was developed by Rheinmetall specially for service in Afghanistan. This vehicle appeared in 2011. Only four of the Bundeswehr Buffels were upgraded to this standard. In 2012 three of these vehicles were deployed in Afghanistan and the forth was used in Germany for training. Previously Rheinmetall upgraded Canadian Army BPz 3 armored recovery vehicles in a similar manner to operate alongside Leopard 2A6M tanks. These machines were fielded in 2007 and proved themselves well in Afghanistan.

   The German Army BPz 3A1 has improved protection against small arms fire, artillery shell splinters, RPG rounds, landmines and improvised explosive devices. These threats were typically encountered by ISAF forces in Afghanistan.

   The Bergepanzer 3A1 armored recovery vehicle has a reinforced hull floor for improved protection against landmines and IED blasts. Sides of the vehicle are fitted with special add-on protection elements that reduce the blast wave caused by roadside bombs. Vehicle is also fitted with a radio jammer, that prevents detonation of radio-controlled explosives. The BPz 3A1 is fitted with a cage armor for improved protection against RPG rounds.

   The main mission of the Bergepanzer 3A1 is recovery of damaged main battle tanks and other armored vehicles from the battlefield. Also it recovers overturned, stuck or swamped vehicles. It also tows them to maintenance units or provides maintenance service in the field. Other tasks include general dozing and obstacle removal.

   The BPz 3A1 is fitted with a powerful recovery system, similar to that of the BPz 3. It is fitted with a crane, winch and front-mounted dozer.