Namer
 
 
 
 




















First prototype based on Merkava Mk. 1 chassis.
 
 
 













First Namer APC based on Merkava Mk. 4 chassis.
 
 
 
















Second Namer APC based on Merkava Mk. 4 chassis.
 
 
 




Stryker LIC, Israeli modification of Stryker APC for low intensity conflict.
 



Stryker APC with RCWS and Trophy
 
 

Pilon is Nakpadon version with front door, only few Nakpadon APCs been converted to this model, this is another attempt by the IDF to improve its Heavy APCs for LIC, another great example is Achzarit LIC.
 
 
 

In light of the ongoing operations in the Gaza Strip, a new Merkava tank based Namer (Tiger) project was launched, that will improve maneuverability, armored scope, and execution of infantry missions in enemy territory. The Namer, designed by the IDF Merkava Tank Directorate, is the first example of the integration development and production capabilities in the armorment of the Infrantry Corps, and is based on technology developed for the Merkava tank.

The Namer is an APC based on the Merkava tank and much like a tank, it is capable of maneuvering in very difficult terrain. It has advanced defensive systems, and an internal air-filtering unit, making battle in areas contaminated with hazardous materials possible. The Namer has specialized equipment installed that is designated for various purposes. Among these apparatus are machine guns, missile launchers, and day and night reconnaissance equipmen. Special emphasis was put on the protection of the soldiers within the APC, during its design stages. One the many systems that will be installed on the Namer is the "Wind Coat", a system that identifies threats and neutralizes them, before they manage to hit the vehicle. "This vehicle is breaking new ground", said Commander of the Logistics Branch, Major General Dani Biton. "This vehicle will secure the IDF's techonogical superiority in the field and secure the infantry system in a signifigant manner."

The Namer APC is at the cutting edge of APC technology and all that pertains to the protecting of foot soldiers in the IDF. The systems and technology that it sports are of the most advanced in the world, and the majority are Israeli manufactured. All the companies that have participated in the project did so while working closely with the IDF. "The soldiers will be protected much more," stressed Major Gnereal (reserves) Israel Tal (Talik), creater of the Israel Armor Doctrine. "The Namer will provide them with mobile fire power and allow them to sustain the longevity of the tanks on the battlfield to a much higher degree."
 
 


First prototype based on Merkava Mk. 1 chassis.
 
 








Namer APC based on Merkava Mk. 4 chassis.
 
 
 
 
 
As a result of the ongoing troubles in the occupied territories and the rising number of casualties, the IDF is currently investigating replacing a part of the M113 based vehicles which were until very recently used in these parts.

As a spot-gap measure, vehicles like the Achzarit, Nagmachon, Nakpadon, and Puma have been transferred to these areas of operation.

Also, a new version of the M113 (Bardelas), the L-VAS (Bazelet) is now on order. This involves adding three tons of passive armor, a new engine, new suspension, and a driver's seat with power steering. The cost will be $20 million for 50 vehicles. Although the APC is 35 years old, the IDF is considering gradually upgrading hundreds of the old APCs because of their availability and relatively low cost.

For a more permanent solution the team dealing with the Merkava tank plan in the Defense Ministry is built a prototype of a heavy APC based on Merkava Mk 1 tanks, the Namer (Tiger). The final version of Namer APC based on Merkava Mk 4 chassis is ready and it is in mass production, at the beginning the Namer will replace Achzarit APCs in Golani brigade. And later Namer APCs will be fitted with Trophy system. Here is a video of Trophy test on Stryker APC.
 

Trophy Test on Stryker APC
 
 

Compared to the Achzarit APC the Namer's most significant advantage is the high level of protection. It uses the basic hull of the Merkava, widely known for its very high survivability on the battle field. The basic hull will be heightened, much like the current Merkava based Namera recovery vehicle. It will have a roof hatch for the driver and commander, seated to the right of the driver. Behind these positions an Remotely Controlled Weapon Station (RCWS) ,will be fitted, with a larger caliber weapon of 12.7mm MG.
 
 

Namera - Merkava ARV
 
 
The use of an RCWS has the advantage of a small footprint on the vehicle, freeing up space in the interior. In addition to the crew of three Namer can carry 8 more soldiers, here is demonstration video of RCWS.
 
 

RCWS - Remote Controlled Weapon Station
 
 

RCWS - Remote Controlled Weapon Station
 
 

By rearranging the rear of the hull a larger rear hatch can be accommodated, easing access and egress for the riding troops.

A very large disadvantage of the Namer is the projected high price. It is estimated that the Namer will cost round $750,000 per unit.

The projected buy of the Namer is part of the total envisioned solution. The IDF also has ordered Ze’ev vehicles.
   
   
   






 
   
   
   
   


 
   
   


 
   
   






 
   
   


 
   
   


 
   
   


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