Piranha Family of Vehicles

The PIRANHA IV is the fourth generation of vehicles in the Piranha family, available in 6x6, 8x8 and 10x10 configurations (see variants section).

The first PIRANHA IV prototype was completed in 2001 and a second in 2004.

This variant features an upgraded 544-horsepower MTU engine providing an increased power-to-weight ratio. Its hydropneumatic suspension, ABS, and traction control enhance mobility on various terrains.

Combat weight is up to 48,000 lbs (21,770 kg) with a 20,000 lbs (9,000 kg) payload and the vehicle is air transportable in C-130 aircraft.

The PIRANHA IV is compatible with various weapon systems, including 12.7mm, 25mm, 30mm, and low-recoil 105mm guns. It supports options like the Rheinmetall Landsysteme weapon station and Delco Systems turrets, making it adaptable for a range of missions.

In service.

First prototype revealed in 2001.

On February 23, 2021, Switzerland’s procurement agency, Armasuisse, signed a contract with General Dynamics European Land Systems (GDELS)-Mowag to begin serial production of 32 new 120mm mortar systems mounted on PIRANHA IV 8×8 armored vehicles. This production follows successful troop and technical tests, which concluded in 2020, ensuring compliance with military requirements. The systems, including the RUAG Cobra mortar as the weapon of choice, are expected to begin delivery to Swiss troops by 2024.

GDELS announced on April 21, 2024, that KNDS Deutschland and GDELS introduced a new artillery platform by mounting the 155 mm Artillery Gun Module (AGM) onto the PIRANHA Heavy Mission Carrier (HMC). This platform was revealed at the 2024 Future Artillery Conference in Paris.

GDELS announced on Nov. 11, 2024, that Switzerland's procurement agency, Armasuisse, selected KNDS Deutschland and General Dynamics European Land Systems (GDELS) to supply a new artillery system for the Swiss Army. This system will integrate KNDS’s 155 mm Artillery Gun Module (AGM) with GDELS’s PIRANHA IV vehicle platform, replacing the M109 self-propelled howitzer. A request for parliamentary approval of this procurement is expected to be submitted in 2025.

General Dynamics European Land Systems-Mowag, Kreuzlingen, Switzerland

 Switzerland
   Army

 Characteristics based on 8x8 model

 CREW                2 (option for third)

 WEIGHTS
   Total             80,000 lbs (36,200 kg)
   Payload           37,478 lbs (17,000 kg)

 PERFORMANCE
   Speed             62 mph (100 kph)
   Range             470 mi (750 km)

 PROPULSION
   Engine            MTU 6V 199TE20, 544 hp (400 kW) 

PIRANHA IV 6X6

The Piranha 6×6 is often used for specialized roles like ambulances, command vehicles, or anti-tank platforms in smaller unit operations.

PIRANHA IV 8x8

The Piranha 8×8 serves as a multi-role combat vehicle capable of acting as an infantry fighting vehicle or providing fire support in large-scale operations. The 8×8 version supports a larger payload and can integrate heavier armament, such as 30mm cannons or turret-mounted systems.

PIRANHA IV Heavy Mission Carrier (HMC)

GDELS announced the variant in April 2024. This is a 10x10 vehicle from the PIRANHA series, currently used by the Swiss Army, designed for high load capacity and agility.

It has five axles, four of which are steerable, enhancing mobility and stability. This design allows for smooth movement during quick repositioning and enables the vehicle to handle trenches and tight turns with ease. In its artillery role, it carries a two-person crew (with an optional third member), and its automated, unmanned gun module is capable of fast, precise shooting in any direction, including while on the move. The platform allows for quick relocation between firing positions on and off-road.

The vehicle has been equipped with the KNDS 155-mm Artillery Gun Module (AGM). With the AGM the vehicle has a gross weight of 40 tons.

The PIRANHA HMC utilizes advanced driveline and suspension technologies, including a 10x10 all-wheel-drive powertrain and an innovative multi-link suspension system (MLS) with steering on the 1st, 2nd, 4th, and 5th axles. This setup enables low axle loads to meet European road regulations, enhances off-road performance, and supports excellent trench-crossing capabilities. Additionally, the steering design allows for a tight turning radius of under 18 meters, contributing to improved maneuverability in diverse terrains.