M981 FIST-V

History

The M981 FIST-V vehicle was developed as a derivative (and upgrade) of the M901 ITV Anti-Tank Missile (ATGM) launcher. FIST-V is only used to designate attack targets (via a laser) and does not directly pick up targets as the original M901 ITV vehicle was designed.

The FIST-V series is intended to be used as an artillery observation platform, with a chassis based on the original ubiquitous M113 APC (detailed elsewhere on this website).

The complete M981 system is equipped with a Targeting Station Control Device (TSCD), a Ground Vehicle Laser Locator (G/VLLD), a periscope and a 7.62mm M60 machine gun (the latter for close range) deployment - to defend or suppress nearby enemy forces). The design also features four SINCGARS radios, as well as eight smoke grenade launchers (for self-checking).

Similar to the previous M901 ITV, the M981 FIST-V can expand and fold the turret assembly for laser designation or travel.

The FIST-V vehicle entered service during the 1991 Gulf War, but was eventually filled by the M2 Bradley and Stryker vehicle family.

Specification

Basic

Roles

Dimensions

Performance

Performance

Armor

8 x Smoke Grenade

Changes