Merkavim to unveil at LAAD 2015 next generation of its MARS Defender protected armoured bus

Defense and Security equipment - Merkavim
 
Merkavim to unveil at LAAD 2015 next generation of its MARS Defender protected armoured bus.
Merkavim – a world leader in the production of armored buses, cost-effective city buses, inter-city buses, and coaches – will reveal the next generation of its MARS Defender, the world's best protected armored bus, at LAAD 2015. Protected from up to 7.62 AP bullets, grenades, and IEDs, the bus looks like a standard bus, with a luxurious interior, while providing safe transport for its passengers.
     
Merkavim – a world leader in the production of armored buses, cost-effective city buses, inter-city buses, and coaches – will reveal the next generation of its MARS Defender, the world's best protected armored bus, at LAAD 2015. Protected from up to 7.62 AP bullets, grenades, and IEDs, the bus looks like a standard bus, with a luxurious interior, while providing safe transport for its passengers.MerkavimMARS Defender, the world's best protected armored bus
     
The MARS Defender is built on a Volvo 6X2 chassis and equipped with two rear axles, enabling it to carry its own weight plus 53 passengers and a driver. Meeting the most stringent standard of MIL STD 461000 High Harness Steel (HHS), the bus provides protection against shooting and bomb assaults, and is considered the ultimate passenger transport solution for dangerous locations.

The body of the bus is built of stainless steel, with armor covering the entire envelope – sides, front, roof, and floor. Two quickly and easily opened emergency hatches are installed in the roof and one on the rear wall of the bus – providing an escape option for passengers. All eight wheels are fitted with Runflate™ systems – allowing the bus to travel, when necessary, even with punctured tires. The bus can be fitted as a luxury or VIP coach, or as an armor-protected mobile command post with communications and C2 fitted interior.

According to Mr. Micha Maixner, CEO, "We are pleased to launch the next generation of the MARS Defender Armored bus at LAAD 2015. Previous generations of the bus were very successful; hundreds of units were sold and have carried passengers in dangerous areas in Israel and other countries around the world, often saving lives. The Defender's functional design and production are carried out in accordance with the stringent requirements of the Israeli security authorities and with their full cooperation."