MRAP

MRAP stands for Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected. It is a category of armored military vehicles designed to survive blasts from below caused by mines or improvised explosive devices (IEDs). MRAPs use a combination of a V-shaped hull, reinforced armor, and blast-attenuating seating to deflect or absorb energy from a detonation, along with protective features such as reinforced floors, run-flat tires, and enhanced crew survivability systems. The goal is to reduce casualties during convoy transport and route-clearance missions in high-threat environments.

MRAPs were developed in response to the IED threat encountered in Iraq and Afghanistan. A U.S.-led procurement program in the late 2000s accelerated the fielding of a diverse family of purpose-built, mine-protected vehicles produced by multiple manufacturers. The resulting lineup includes medium to large armored trucks as well as smaller protective vehicles. Well-known examples include the Force Protection Cougar family, the Buffalo, the South African RG-31 Nyala, the Navistar International MaxxPro, and the Oshkosh M-ATV. The United Kingdom and other allies operated variants such as the Mastiff and other configurations derived from MRAP platforms.

Operationally, MRAPs were deployed extensively by the United States and allied forces during the Iraq and Afghanistan campaigns, where they demonstrated improved survivability in IED blasts compared with older armored vehicles. As combat needs evolved, MRAPs were complemented and eventually partially superseded by more versatile all-terrain platforms under the MRAP All Terrain Vehicle (M-ATV) program, aimed at providing better mobility in rugged terrain while maintaining blast protection.

Impact and limitations include significantly enhanced crew protection and reduced fatalities, balanced against higher procurement and maintenance costs, greater weight and fuel consumption, and increased logistical complexity in theater operations.