Pansarbandvagn

Pansarbandvagn, often abbreviated as PBV, is a series of Swedish armored personnel carriers designed and manufactured by the Swedish company Hägglund & Söner. Introduced in the 1960s, the PBV series was developed to provide mobile infantry transport and support for the Swedish Army.

The Pansarbandvagn is characterized by its tracked chassis, which offers good off-road mobility and survivability in combat environments. The series includes several variants, primarily distinguished by their roles and armament configurations. The most common model, the PBV 302, features a fully enclosed armored hull and is typically armed with a machine gun, providing protection for infantry troops during transportation and combat operations.

Designed to carry a squad of infantry soldiers, the PBV series can accommodate around 10 to 12 personnel, including the driver and crew. Its armor is sufficient to withstand small arms fire and shell splinters, ensuring troop safety in front-line conditions. The vehicle is equipped with a diesel engine, enabling reliable mobility across diverse terrains.

Throughout its service, the PBV series has undergone various upgrades and extensions to improve armor protection, firepower, and electronics. The vehicles have been deployed in numerous Swedish military operations and have served as a crucial component of the Swedish armored forces.

While largely phased out or replaced by newer models in recent years, the Pansarbandvagn remains a notable example of Cold War-era military engineering, illustrating Sweden's emphasis on versatile, mobile troop transport solutions. Its design has influenced subsequent armored personnel carrier developments within the region.