The Hovet (M163) is a self propelled variant of the General Dynamics 20mm Vulcan Air Defence System program based M113. Modification include new linked digital fire-control computer with range-only radar, and adding the new APDS round which increases range to 3.5 km.
The Hovet utilized a modified version of the US Air Force's M61 Vulcan six-barreled 20mm rotary cannon. It was installed in a turret on a modified M113A1 APC. Since the Hovet weighed so much more than the M113 APC, flotation cells were fitted to the sides of the vehicle, and a high-displacement trim vane was added to the front. When the powertrain modifications of the M113A2 APC were introduced to the Hovet, the carrier vehicle was redesignated as M741A1. The improved suspension of the M113A2 was not fitted since the Hovet's suspension was fitted with the lockout device. The Vulcan could fire at a high rate of 3000 rounds per minute in 10-, 30-, 60-, or 100-rounds bursts, and it could also fire at a low rate of 1000 rounds per minute.
The Product Improved Vulcan Air Defense System (PIVADS), was a kit developed by Lockheed Electronics Company which reduced the gunner's workload and improved the accuracy of the system. Hardware improvements included a digital microprocessor, director sight, low backlash azimuth drive system, and the ability to fire armor-piercing discarding sabot (APDS) ammunition. PIVADS provided its operators with automatic notification of system failures through its built-in test equipment (BITE). PIVADS's radar remained a range-only device. |
