AT105 Saxon

The AT105 Saxon was an armoured personnel carrier used by the British Army. The Saxon was intended to act as a protected mobile transporter for units that would reinforce the British Army of the Rhine (BAOR).

Developed by GKN Sankey, it was based on the Bedford 4x4 truck and provided protection against small arms and shell splinters for the 10 occupants. It was equipped with a pintle mounted 7.62mm GPMG for defence.

The hull was welded steel with V-shaped chassis to deflect mine detonations.

The patrol version of the Saxon was used in Northern Ireland replacing the venerable Humber Pigs from 1993 onwards. Like the Pig before, some were converted with extending riot shields attached to the sides.

Withdrawn from service in the early 2000s, the Saxon was an unpopular design due to its cramped interior and poor performance off road.

Weight 10.6 tonnes Length 5.17m (17ft) Width 2.49m (8ft 2in) Height 2.63m (8ft 8in) Range 510km (320mi) Speed 96kmh (60mph)