What makes you think the M113 cannot keep up with the Bionix???
If the M113 used is the Ultra version, then there is absolutely no problem whatsoever. In any case, there is no need for an air defense vehicle to be directly in line with the Bionix. Their role will be to support from behind, at the rear echelon.
BTW, I have experienced the old M113 before back in NS, and believe me, in the hands of a "garang" driver, it can give you a hell of a ride!!!!!!
My M113 driver can even do drifting....
Originally posted by ^Delta^:
I hope to see an ATGW version with 4 Spike /NT-D launchers and reloads carried internally. This would add bite to our armoured forces in an attack against well-defended positions.
The present M113 with 4 SA-18 missiles is unsatisfactory in my opinion. When the new light tanks enter service to operate alongside the Bionix IFV fleet, a mobile and well armoured mobile SAM would be needed. The M113 cannot keep up with these fast and fuel efficient AFVs. An air defence version of the Bionix with 8 SA-18 missiles in lieu of just 4 or even other more capable missiles like the Barak(10km) or Crotale VT-2(16km) would be a welcome addition to provide short range air defence for our advancing armour.
A light tank based on a Bionix? Not a good idea. Remember the weight and recoil problems faced by ST Kinetics when a 120mm gun on a turret made by Oto Melara was fitted on a Bionix trial vehicle? An IFV is just not meant to be designed as a tank however much the modifications. Why then do we not see light tank versions of the Bradley, Warrior or BMP-3 if they were so effective? A purpose designed chassis such as the M8 AGS would be a good choice. In fact I hope the SAF goes with this option which is competing with the UCVP chassis from General Dynamics and the Bionix chassis.
With regional armies fielding tanks like the ASCOD 105mm armed light tank, Scorpion 90 light tank or PT-91Z main battle tank, no compromise on our choice for a truly effective AFV can be made.