From Major Tim Jones, Kabul-based Programme Manager for the Afghan Mobile Strike Force, come photos of the Textron MSFV (mobile strike force vehicle) that is being purchased to equip five battalions and which will enter service later this year (pictured). It is based on the M1117 ASV (armoured security vehicle) which has recently seen service in Iraq and Afghanistan with US forces, although it is longer, wider and has more ground clearance.

The purchase includes a turreted version armed with 40mm and .50cal guns, a version fitted with a .50cal and what is known as an ‘Overhead Gunner’s Protection Kit’, plus an ambulance variant. Also included in the deal is a training package with a particular emphasis on maintenance in order to improve the chances of the vehicles remaining serviceable.

Major Jones was also kind enough to send us a couple of pictures of the vehicle graveyard at the Afghan camp at Pol e Charki.