Toyota HiLux Gets Military Upgrade: Supacat MUV

Supacat, a leading supplier of military vehicles, has introduced the Medium Utility Vehicle Hi-Load (MUV), a versatile and capable vehicle based on the popular Toyota HiLux. The MUV offers a significant upgrade to the HiLux platform, extending its chassis to accommodate a six-wheel-drive configuration and enhancing its payload capacity.

A Modular and Versatile Solution

Designed to be modular, the MUV can be customized to meet various military requirements. With a gross vehicle mass (GVM) of 6.5 tonnes, it is technically classified as a truck but can carry a substantial payload of up to 3000kg.

Unlike many other military vehicles in this segment, the MUV utilizes off-the-shelf components, making it more cost-effective and easier to maintain. This approach aligns with the increasing demand for affordable and reliable military equipment.

Powertrain and Performance

While specific details about the MUV’s powertrain haven’t been fully disclosed, it is understood to be equipped with the HiLux’s 2.8-liter turbo-diesel four-cylinder engine, delivering 150kW of power and 500Nm of torque. Supacat has indicated that engine upgrades are available to further enhance performance.

The MUV also incorporates a common remotely operated weapon station, allowing occupants to engage targets safely from within the vehicle.

A Competitive Landscape

The unveiling of the Supacat MUV comes amidst a competitive landscape for military vehicles. Just weeks ago, the Australian Defence Force (ADF) announced the addition of the Polaris DAGOR to its fleet. Additionally, the ADF recently rejected a bid to supply militarized 6×6 Toyota LandCruiser 70 Series utes from an Australian engineering firm.

The MUV’s combination of high mobility, high payload, and modularity positions it as a strong contender in the market. Supacat believes that the MUV will appeal to regional forces seeking to maximize capability while maintaining affordability and ease of maintenance.

As the demand for versatile and reliable military vehicles continues to grow, the Supacat MUV offers a promising solution that blends the proven capabilities of the Toyota HiLux with advanced military features.