In the military, there is a constant need to be more prepared, better trained, better protected and even stealthier in scouting missions. Because of this, companies like France’s Panhard, that manufactures military and light tactical vehicles, is stepping up its game, creating some innovative new vehicles to keep military personnel better protected when in harms way. Check out Panhard’s latest concept vehicle in the video above, compliments of Fox Trot Alpha and Pete Ruppert.

Image: Air-Defense.net

The new tactical vehicle from Panhard is called the CRAB, short for Combat Recce Armored Buggy. The idea behind the concept is that the CRAB would be an all-encompassing vehicle for military use, being able to be used in all stages of military operation, from scouting missions to engagement with enemy forces.

To do this, the CRAB is equipped with a “V” shaped seating pattern capable of fitting three crew members comfortably. The driver’s seat in the middle of the vehicle, giving the vehicle’s pilot an unobstructed view through the blast-proof windshield, as well as access to programmable LCD controls, multi-function displays and images streamed from the vehicle’s 360 degree camera system.

Flanking the driver’s seat are two additional passenger seats with direct access to the vehicle’s radio system, control sensors and weaponry.

A large multi-functional display and control stick can be accessed by each passenger, giving them the ability to perform other crew members’ tasks from their seats if necessary. Part of this is access to a large weapons turret, which can hold anything from a remote-controlled 50 caliber machine gun to a 40mm grenade launcher, or even a M242 25mm Bushmaster Cannon.

Image: Fox Trot Alpha

Following along with the CRAB’s name is a unique suspension system with all-time four-wheel drive, independently steerable axles, giving the vehicle the crab-like ability to move sideways, and a high-speed reverse gear. Power to drive all of this could potentially come from a couple different engines ranging in power from 300 to 400hp and even incorporating a 400amp starter/alternator and large battery packs. Solar panels are also being considered to help subsidize the vehicle’s power needs out in the field.

Image: Air-Defense.net

Fully armored with level two STANAG protection, the CRAB is said to be able to withstand minor engagement with enemy forces with no problem. Additional armor, up to a level four, can be added if necessary.

Additionally, the CRAB has extra defense mechanisms built in to deal with possible IED or land mine explosions. These come in the form of a number of false floors that act as crumple zones on the bottom of the vehicle, as well as a specially angled hull to deflect the blast away from the vehicle and its crew. Extra shock absorbing material has also been added to the interior seats, giving passengers extra protection against in-vehicle trauma from an attack. These seats also help make high-speed rides over rough terrain more comfortable.

Currently, the concept model is being considered for French military use as well as in other markets, like South America, the Middle East and even in Pacific nations.

There is no word on the US Military getting on-board with the CRAB scout vehicle, but only time will tell if our military will take advantage of similar technologies to keep our troops safer. The staff at Off Road Xtreme wonders what these will be like years from now in surplus used as recreational off-roaders. What do you think? Let us know in the Comments section below.