The United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) is made up of America’s most elite forces in the world: SEALs, Green Berets, Rangers, Air Force Special Operators, and Marine Raiders.
At this year’s Special Operations Forces (SOF) conference in Tampa, FL the newest line-up of Military-grade ATVs were on display.
These little bad-boys can pack a serious punch.
Over the past 5 years, Polaris has developed four ATVs that will be used by our SOF (along with specialized units from 82nd Airborne, EOD, so on).
Let’s begin with the ATV that started it all: Polaris Sportsman MV 700.
The older MV 700 had the ability to run on diesel, regular gasoline or JP8 (standard military fuel).
In addition, it had an advanced 4×4 powertrain with a lowered center of gravity.
They have interchangeable tow hitches and multiple weapon mounts. Pictured above shows an MK47 grenade launcher up front.
Also, they could be fitted with exhaust mufflers for reduced sound output.
One advanced feature was the headlights.
They can be switched from standard to an infrared setting.
This unique headlight setting will emit an infrared beam which allows an Operator wearing night vision goggles to see the headlights.
Now for the new SOF toys to sneak up on bad-guys.
Two of the ATVs fall into the MRZR platform: MRZR 2 and MRZR 4.
The smaller MRZR 2 can carry up to 1,000 pounds.
And the larger MRZR 4 can carry 1,500lbs.
They are powered by an 88 hp engine that can reach a max speed of 60 mph.
Unlike the standard civilian version, they have a lower center of gravity that is achieved by moving around engine components.
Also, they have a keyless ignition for a quick, “time to move NOW” situation.
Like the MV 700, they have the ability to black out the entire vehicle and switch to infrared mode.
An important feature is the automatic traction that engages 4-wheel when needed but stays in 2-wheel drive when tire slip is not detected.
This helps save fuel and reduces wear and tear on the vehicles…or just step on it.
Now for the cool new DAGOR vehicle.
Deployable Advanced Ground Off-Road (DAGOR) have a maximum payload of 3,250lbs.
It can fit 9 SOF bad-a**es or carry multiple weapons depending on the mission.
They’re small enough to fit 2 into a CH-47 Chinook (or sling loaded).
Also, they can be sling loaded to smaller UH-60 Blackhawks and larger CH-53s.
The turbo diesel or JP8 fueled engines have a range of 500 miles.
Finally, the up-graded MV 850 is ready to go.
She’s got a more powerful engine that churns out 77 hp and moves at a top speed over 52 mph.
One of the cool up dates is the use of new Terrain Armor tires.
They can sustain 30% more damage and even withstand a direct hit from a .50 caliber bullet.
These little ATVs will bring nightmares to those who have earned the mark as targets for our elite Special Forces.
