The tactical Tractor

MEHLER PROTECTION, the European market leader in ballistic body and platform protection, and STEYR®, a CNH brand and established manufacturer of premium-segment tractors, are set to unveil the M-RACC KE armoured concept for tractors at EUROSATORY in Paris. At the heart of the collaboration is an armoured STEYR Terrus CVT, designed to serve as a multifunctional work and transport platform for demanding operational scenarios.

With M‑RACC KE, MEHLER PROTECTION presents an armoured integration concept that meets key military requirements – particularly in the area of crew protection – for tractor platforms. The solution to be showcased at Eurosatory demonstrates how Mehler Protection’s comprehensive system protection can be applied to STEYR’s Terrus CVT tractor series.

At its core is the powerful and versatile STEYR Terrus CVT platform. The Terrus range, with power outputs of up to 340 hp, delivers high tractive performance with a maximum lift capacity of more than 11 tonnes at the rear and just under 6 tonnes at the front. Its compact design and optimised all-round visibility support front and rear applications – a key advantage when deployed in demanding environments such as military training areas, airfields or critical infrastructure sites. The concept sets a new benchmark for crew protection, particularly in exposed environments, and significantly exceeds the requirements specified in DGUV 201‑027 (BGI 833).

MEHLER PROTECTION provides comprehensive system protection through a high-quality, military-grade design. The armoured concept has been developed in accordance with NATO standard STANAG 4569. The cabin features all-round protection, including the roof, to STANAG / AEP-55 Level 2, while optimised additional armour across the entire system reinforces the vehicle’s most critical areas. This not only protects the tractor against grenade fragmentation, but also provides mine protection to STANAG Level 2. The concept sets a new benchmark for crew protection, particularly in exposed environments, and significantly exceeds the requirements specified in DGUV 201-027 (BGI 833).

Drawing on many years of expertise, LINDNERHOF TAKTIK, also part of the MEHLER SYSTEMS GROUP, has developed the stowage concept for personal equipment in the cabin.

The combination of the Terrus CVT series platform and the M‑RACC KE protection concept creates a robust, highly adaptable solution for engineering, clearance and support tasks, as well as transport and logistics operations in high‑threat environments. The platform can be equipped with a wide range of attachments, including dozer and clearing blades, excavator and crane booms, trenchers and front loaders.

Christian Vahldieck, Managing Director of MEHLER PROTECTION Platform Armour, highlights Mehler Protection’s role in the project: ‘Our contribution to M-RACC KE is consistently focused on crew safety. We have channelled our experience in military platform armouring into a concept that provides comprehensive protection for the cabin body, underbody and key components, ensuring the multifunctional tractor platform benefits from a level of survivability normally found on specialised military vehicles. Our goal is to give crews the best possible protection against ballistic threats, shrapnel and mines, without compromising the platform’s operational flexibility.’

Markus Müller, President EMEA at CNH, welcomes the opportunity to exhibit the solution at EUROSATORY together with MEHLER PROTECTION: ‘Our deep experience in manufacturing equipment designed to operate at scale in demanding applications positions STEYR as a strong partner for the defence sector. By combining STEYR’s engineering expertise with Mehler Protection’s specialist knowledge, we are positioned to meet the extremely high standards of this sector. We are delighted to exhibit this pioneering STEYR innovation at EUROSATORY, as CNH evaluates a potential entry into defence-related activities.’

MEHLER PROTECTION online 

STEYR online