Despite cuts in the overall budget, the French army remains one of the most advanced in the world. In addition, a few days ago, the army released a new video to introduce their Griffon SAN. A vehicle designed to transport troops, as well as to create command posts. Here are the media in question, followed by the full description as published by the army on the official Youtube account.
The 24.5-ton Griffon Armored Vehicle has gradually replaced the Forward Armored Vehicle (VAB) from 2019 to support and transport Félin-equipped fighters as close to combat as possible. 395 “Gryphons” have already been delivered, of which 335 are in the military transport version and 60 are in the command and staff version.
In the SAN version, the Griffon is equipped with a medical module, devices for storing and integrating medical equipment, as well as an assistance system for loading the wounded, consisting of a mobile table and a lifting winch. The internal configuration allows for seated or lying casualties to be accommodated on four stretchers. The SAN version has all the elements common to Griffons (mobility, weaponry, protection, and communications).
Qualification testing of this medical version was carried out at the DGA test centers with the assistance of the Armed Forces Health Service. They mainly concerned the general ergonomics of the medical module, the ergonomics of the assistance system for loading the wounded, the protection of personnel from mines / IEDs, the electromagnetic compatibility of equipment and electrical networks. The SCORPION program has been designed in a phased approach to allow for rapid delivery of each ability as it matures. Thus, the DGA consistently qualifies the different versions of the Griffon. The artillery observation vehicle version is expected to qualify in the coming months.
Image: @DGA