The Bushmaster, an all-Australian design, will provide the Australian Army with one of its most significant land-force assets — high-speed protected mobility.

CO 25/49RQR Lt-Col Stephen Porter says this trip was the last real chance for user evaluation and input — the last time the units of 7 Bde would get to assess the vehicle before delivery and the last opportunity to provide functional input to the way the vehicle is eventually delivered. "It is a trial about checking that the specifications the army wants from the vehicle are correct and checking that amendments and modifications so far made to the prototype are what we really want," Lt-Col Porter says. "There is a second aspect — and from my viewpoint an equally important point and that is to get an understanding of the capabilities of the vehicle, how to use it and to look at the beginnings of tactics, techniques and procedures at platoon level."

He says the unit is now working with what is the obvious strength of the vehicle. "Bushmaster has certainly exceeded its specifications in terms of ballistic protection and we have now started to take that into account. It also comes with a mounted 7.62mm machinegun so we do have a bit of reach and sustained firepower to use if we can manoeuvre the vehicle while the infantry are getting out."

Manufactured from specially-developed Australian steel and employing ADI’s specialist welding processes, Bushmaster’s innovative design prioritises soldier safety and welfare, from its V-shaped, monocoque,   mine-blast-deflecting hull, to ballistic tolerance. Occupant safety from the effects of a landmine explosion with the equivalent of 9.5kg of HE detonated under any wheel or under the centre of the vehicle was demonstrated during development.

Following various upgrades and modifications during development, ADI now claims ballistic tolerance equal to or better than ASLAV and M113 with protection against 12.5mm ball and 7.62mm armour-piercing ammunition.

Coupled to a seven-speed automatic transmission, a Caterpillar turbo diesel affords Bushmaster a high power-to-weight ratio for long-distance high-speed cruising while offering exceptional low-end torque to deal with the most daunting terrain. Ride and handling are enhanced by all-wheel drive independent suspension featuring coil springs over double-acting shock absorbers on a wishbone configuration. Power-assisted steering, disc brakes and diff-locks add to its manoeuverability and performance.

Lt-Col Porter says he thinks that the wider army doesn’t yet fully appreciate what Bushmaster is about because people often ask if it is an APC or a truck. "Well it’s neither. It’s a unique capability that needs to be explored, developed and used. To class the Bushmaster as a B vehicle is to grossly under-sell it. It is an armoured vehicle but not quite an APC. It is too good in every respect to be classed as merely a B vehicle but at the end of the day it will be used to deliver infantry to where they are needed, fresh and in the best possible condition to do what light infantry do on the battlefield."

The performance of troops at their destination is greatly influenced by their method of transportation and Bushmaster’s outstanding protection and comfort will ensure they arrive in peak condition. It is ultimately designed for crew comfort and protection. Head and leg room are extremely generous, as are provisions for the internal storage of equipment. Large external storage lockers add further capacity.

Face-to-face passenger seating ensures secure body support under extreme braking conditions or in the event of collision. Large, ballistically protected side and rear windows provide excellent visibility and prevent problems of passenger disorientation. A spacious, air-conditioned interior can accommodate up to 10 fully-equipped soldiers, delivering them over long distances in comfort, ready to operate at peak capacity.

Fuel and hydraulic tanks are located outside the crew compartment to protect occupants from possible fires in the event of rupturing after mine blast. In addition, the fuel tank is fitted with fire retardant elements that prevent the explosion or deterioration of the fuel. A 270-litre water tank under the crew compartment, not only provides for soldier rehydration but also offers extra cushioning in the event of mine blast.

Lt-Col Porter says the advent of Bushmaster is a significant boost to 25/49RQR after it had been badly hurt in aiding other units prepare for East Timor. "Our soldiers are very keen and excited by this vehicle. We have finally moved away from the Landrover-type, unprotected chassis to this vehicle and they are excited to be involved — especially our reserve elements. We can demand more of our reserve soldiers because we have a lot more to offer. Those who want to soldier at 25/49RQR can expect better training thanks to the integration with full-time soldiers and a better standard of equipment such as Bushmaster."

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