Lazar (armoured vehicle)
The Lazar is a series of wheeled armoured personnel carriers (APCs) designed and manufactured by Yugoimport SDPR in Serbia. The series includes several variants, designated Lazar 1, Lazar 2, Lazar 3, and Lazar 3M. They are intended to provide a high level of ballistic and mine protection, along with significant firepower.
Design and Features:
The Lazar APCs are typically characterized by a modular design, allowing for various configurations and armaments to be mounted depending on the mission requirements. They feature a V-shaped hull to deflect blasts from landmines and improvised explosive devices (IEDs). The vehicles are typically equipped with a remote weapon station (RWS) that can be armed with various machine guns, autocannons, or grenade launchers. They are also designed with firing ports that allow troops inside to engage targets from within the vehicle. The vehicles are generally powered by diesel engines, providing a high level of mobility on various terrains.
Variants:
- Lazar 1: The initial version of the Lazar APC series.
- Lazar 2: An improved version with enhanced armor protection and various other upgrades.
- Lazar 3: A further developed variant featuring a redesigned hull, improved suspension, and a more powerful engine. It also includes advancements in situational awareness systems.
- Lazar 3M: A modernized version of the Lazar 3, incorporating further technological advancements and design refinements based on operational experience and customer feedback.
Role and Deployment:
The Lazar APCs are designed to provide protected transportation for infantry units, offering support in various combat scenarios. They can be used for patrol, reconnaissance, convoy escort, and peacekeeping operations. Several nations have expressed interest in or acquired Lazar APCs for their armed forces and security agencies.
Criticisms:
Some criticisms have been directed towards specific aspects of the Lazar APC series, including perceived limitations in certain areas of performance or design choices. However, details on specific criticisms are often not publicly available in sufficient detail for encyclopedic inclusion.