M1235A1 MaxxPro Dash DXM
- Skala:
- 1:35
- Status:
- Idee
The M1235 MaxxPro Dash Mine Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicle was the third major version produced on the NAVISTAR series of Workstar Model 7000 truck chassis. The Dash was developed at almost the same time as the M1234 Maxx Pro Plus MRAP, although for completely different reasons.
The Dash was designed as a result of American experiences in Afghanistan, where a smaller, lighter and more mobile vehicle was needed as the M1224 MaxxPro and MaxxPro Plus vehicles were sometimes limited by their size and lack of mobility. Although equipped with the MaxxPro Plus' features, the Dash is a little smaller than the previous MaxxPro versions. However, it is equipped with different armor package; the full A-Kit Explosively Formed penetrator (EFP) package. Features that help to visually identify the Maxx Pro Dash version are: horizontal armored radiator slats, double air vents on the sides of the hood, a single air screen behind the front doors, single rear wheels and straight front axle.
After a short time in service, the US military found that the Dash was not as mobile as was needed and it was further upgraded with the DXM independent suspension system (ISS) which was developed by Hendickson Truck Suspension Systems and Axle Tech International. It was designated M1235A1 DXM or ISS and is reportedly very mobile, agile and respected by its crews. In fact, the upgrade was so successful, in 2012 an extensive program was undertaken to upgrade the entire MaxxPro fleet in Afghanistan to DXM standards (ISS & engine). The main visual difference between the Dash and Dash DXM is that the DXM has the ISS which has large springs showing in the front. Due to the fitting of the ISS, the Dash DXM vehicle is a little taller.