German army has tested the new Puma armoured infantry vehicle in hot weather conditions in UAE.

In September-October 2013, the new Puma AIFV tracked armoured fighting vehicle has been tested in hot weather conditions in the the desert of United Arab Emirates. UAE provide the perfect climatic conditions and infrastructure to meet high test standards.

The trials was carried out by staff members of the Bundeswehr Technical Centers WTD 91 in Meppen (in charge of weapon tests) and WTD 41 in Trier (in charge of mobility tests) on behalf of the Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support (BAAINBw). About 20 to 30 staff members will be on the ground, depending on the respective trials.

Trials will include firing and driving maneuvers in desert conditions as well as tests on the PUMA's suitability for hot weather conditions. To this end, the temperature profiles inside the vehicle will be measured and compared to the outside temperature.

The climate trials will be part of comprehensive tests to demonstrate whether the PUMA meets the requirements. Prior to these climate trials, it was already successfully tested on rough terrain and with regard to combat power.

The Puma will replace the the MARDER IFVs which have been in use in the Bundeswehr for more than 40 years. Depending on the outcome of the climate trials, it is planned to have the first PUMA IFVs delivered to military units by next year.

Life firing and mobility exercises were the core competencies trialled during this two month long exercise.



The accuracy of the MK30-2ABM and MG4 was tested at day and night during stationary and mobile firing tests at the extensive firing range with modern infrastructure located in the North-West of the UAE. The AIVF PUMA performed the various firing tests successfully which were conducted by the German Centre of Excellence for Weapons and Ammunition at extreme temperatures ranging from 35 to nearly 50 degrees Celsius. The German User attended the comprehensive firing test program to witness themselves that the AIVF PUMA performed with utmost precision which it did.

The multifunctional self-protection system MUSS was also tested during the hot climate trials and passed successfully too.

The AIVF PUMA underwent in further driving ranges in the North and Northeast of UAE several practical mobility trials including in difficult terrain such as massive sand dunes, steep gravel roads and slip rock areas within Wadis. The AIVF PUMA performed with great endurance and to the satisfaction of the User and official trial team.