AACE (Armoured Amphibious Combat Earthmover)

AACE (Armored Amphibious Combat Earthmover), developed by FNSS, is an amphibious, armored, tracked earthmoving vehicle. Operated by a single operator and crew, it is designed to perform functions such as digging, scraping, leveling, and transporting in military engineering and combat earthmoving operations. Unlike standard construction machinery, AACE is a highly versatile platform capable of operating both on land and in water.

Technical Specifications

• Weight: 19,500 kg
• Dimensions: Length 6.2 m, Width 3.3 m, Height 3.2 m
• Crew: 2 (1 operator, 1 crew member)
• Engine: Diesel, fully automatic transmission

Mobility:

• Maximum speed on land: 45 km/h
• Maximum swimming speed in water: 8.6 km/h (powered by 2 water jets)
• Maximum operational range: 400 km
• Maximum climbing gradient: 60%, maximum side slope: 30%
• Vertical obstacle clearance: 0.4 m, trench crossing capability: 1.5 m
• Turning radius: Pivot

Protection:

• Ballistic and mine protection compliant with STANAG 4569 standards (protection level classified)
• Equipped with automatic fire suppression, CBRN (Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear) protection, and climate control systems as standard

Equipment:

• 6 smoke grenade launchers
• Recovery winch with 15,000 kg capacity
• Driver vision enhancement system

Features and Capabilities

The AACE is one of the most effective tracked earthmoving vehicles for rugged terrain conditions. Its amphibious capability allows it to operate in water, reducing the need for coastal preparation unlike standard construction machinery, thereby increasing operational flexibility in riverbank and water obstacle engineering tasks.

A specialized hydraulic suspension system enables the front part of the vehicle to be lowered and raised, allowing the dozer blade and ballast compartment to maintain more effective contact with the ground. This design allows digging, scraping, and leveling operations to be performed even while the vehicle is in motion.

The ballast compartment can intake soil to increase vehicle weight and enhance operational capacity during tasks. At the end of operations, ballast can be released, optimizing vehicle performance and maneuverability.

Operational Use and Export

The AACE is actively employed in the inventory of the Turkish Armed Forces, especially preferred for engineering operations in riverine and water-obstacle environments. The vehicle has also entered the international market through exports to the Philippine Armed Forces. Deliveries to the Philippines began in 2021, contributing to military engineering capabilities in the region.

AACE (Armoured Amphibious Combat Earthmover) (FNSS Savunma Sistemleri Official Website)