Guardian Angel Air-Deployable Rescue Vehicle

Mission

The GAARV is a multi-purpose utility vehicle intended to help combat search and rescue teams retrieve individuals that have been isolated and can expand the ability to quickly reach further into the battle space to provide a more mobile rescue capability. Guardian Angel is an USAF non-aircraft weapon system program designed to execute USAF Combat Search and Rescue and Personnel Recovery across the full spectrum of military operations. Currently, Guardian Angels can reach casualties by parachute or helicopter. The new vehicle enables the team to be dropped off well outside the range of the enemy’s anti-aircraft weapons to infiltrate, exfiltrate, and recover downed aircrew and personnel. 

Features

The GAARV is a highly mobile two-door off-roading pickup truck design with all-wheel drive. The lightweight tactical vehicle has a high-performance mid-engine for maximum stability with 430 horsepower and 425 lb-ft of torque. The GAARV can exceed double its curb weight in payload while performing missions. The engine will run using standard gasoline, 87 Octane or higher, diesel, or JP-8. The SRTV is constructed of MIL-STD aircraft tubing, minimizing weight, maximizing strength, and providing a skeletal base for multiple types of commercial off-the-shelf ballistic and blast armoring. The vehicle utilizes identical components with multiple body configurations, hence, it provides multi-role configurations. The GAARV is measured to be carried internally by the M/HC-130P/N/J, C-130/C-130J, KC-130J and C-17 fixed-wing aircraft as well as the CH-47 and CH-53 helicopters.

General Characteristics

Primary Function: Combat search and rescue support vehicle

Prime Contractor: HDT Global Inc.

Power Plant: GM LSX series engine (whipple supercharged)

Power Output: 430 horsepower, 425 ft/lbs torque

Length: 130 in (3,302 mm)

Width: 80 in (2,032 mm)

Height: 66 in (1,676 mm)

Payload: 3,730 lb, (1,692 kg)

Speed: 100 mph (161 km/h)

Range: 350 miles (563 kilometers)

Weapons: The GAARV has weapons mount options: Fore and aft crew-served weapon mounts, 360 degree turret with roll protection, and standard swing arm mounts. Can mount M240B, M249, or M2 machine guns, or the M134 Minigun.