The role of mean maximum pressure in specifying cross-country mobility for armoured fighting vehicle design

Abstract

This paper examines the relationship between a military vehicle's mobility and its survivability. The theoretical model governing this relationship is based on a series of steps, each of which is critically examined. The tactical role of the vehicle is translated into a mobility requirement stated in terms of the percentage of ground to be trafficable in specified areas. The assessment of soil strength is achieved using the cone index, the statistical handling of which is described. The link between Vehicle Cone Index and Rowland's Mean Maximum Pressure (MMP) is discussed, as is its role as an indicator of vehicle mobility. Vehicle and armour weight follow directly from Rowland's MMP, leading to an assessment of survivability. Examples are given of the effects of varying the mobility requirement, the threat level and the armour type on the ultimate survivability of the vehicle.