Alvis Stalwart (FV620)
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| |
| Alvis Stalwart General characteristics | |
|---|---|
| Length | m |
| Width | 2.62 m |
| Height | 2.31 m |
| Weight | t |
| Suspension | 6 x 6 wheels |
| Speed | 40 mph, 64 km/h road km/h off-road |
| Range | 824 km |
| Primary armament | none |
| Secondary armament | none |
| Armour | ? mm |
| Power plant | petrol, 220 horsepower>hp (164 kW) |
| Crew | driver + 2 passengers |
The FV 620 Stalwart, informally known as the "Stolly", is a highly mobile amphibious military truck built by Alvis that served with the British Army.
History
The Stalwart was a private venture by Alvis that was adopted and entered service with the British Army in 1966 as a general transport truck in preference to the FV431, the load carrier variant of the FV430 series. It was one of the same line of vehicles that included the Alvis Saracen and Saladin. The high mobility and amphibious capabilities were considered ideal for resupplying units in the field.
Design
The hull is the vehicle chassis, the engine is situated under the load deck in the rear of the hull and the gearboxes, differentials and transfer boxes forward of this. The load deck was open-topped with large drop down panels on either side. Waterproof seals ensured that these would not leak when in the water. The three man cab has the driver's position in the centre and a seat for a passenger either side. The cab can only be entered through roof hatches.
The Stalwart could carry 5 tonnes of stores, or tow 10 tonnes.
In the water it was driven by vectored thrust water-jet propulsion units at about 6 knots.
The drive system including the all-wheel drive, multiple gearboxes and the water propulsion units was complex and needed a lot of maintenance. When the amphibious qualities become unnecessary, it was common for the water jets to be removed to reduce weight and maintenance.
Variants
FV620
First modelFV621
Stalwart Mk 1FV622
Stalwart Mk 2 General Service. This had a 2-man crew although a 3rd seat could be fitted to the right of the driver as a field modification.. Could also carry 38 fully equipped troops or the Gloster SARO Bulk Refuelling Pack as alternatives to the 5 Ton cargoFV623
Stalwart Mk 2 Limber. An artillery ammunition supply vehicle. An ATLAS 3001/66 hydraulic crane was added to the cargo area.FV624
Stalwart Mk 2 Recovery. Two extra seats and a crane added.See also
- [link] Owners forum for Stalwarts in Private ownership
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