M577
M577: Armored Command Post
Statistics
Armor Protection:
Frontal Turret Armor: N/A
Frontal Hull Armor: Moderate. Aluminium. Protected vs small arms and shell splinter
Combat Mass: 11.74 tonnes
Length: 4.86m
Width: 2.68m
Height: 2.70m
Engine Power: 215hp Detroit Diesel 6V53 V6 diesel
Top Speed: 58kph
General
The M577 is a tracked armored command post vehicle based on venerable M113 family of armored personnel carriers. Essentially a standard M113 with a raised troop compartment, the vehicle is equipped with a 4.2kw external generator set mounted above the engine compartment and a tent extension providing additional work space when the vehicle is stationary. The modeled version is the M577A2 which shares the same upgrades as the M113A2. This vehicle is fully modeled and crew-able at the Commander's (F7), Driver's (F9), and Squad Leader's (F11) positions and is equipped with an interactive (F5) real time map board/screen accessible from the Commander's position.
As simulated, this command post vehicle carries a three man dismounted security section equipped with 5.56mm rifles and a 7.62mm M240 (MAG 58) LMG, but otherwise provides no appreciable tactical benefit beyond its role as a high-value target.
Note: When created in the Mission Editor scenario designers have the option to have a given M577's extension deployed and if deployed to have the vehicle screened with camouflage netting. If set as deployed, the M577 will be stationary for the duration of the scenario, and all Commander/Driver inputs will be ignored. Currently the M577 can not deploy its extension during runtime, this decision must be made during scenario creation. Additionally, when deployed, the M577 will erect an 11m OE-254 antenna, therefore careful consideration of the unit's location is critical to reduce the chances the command post being spotted.
M577A2 with extension deployed and antenna erected.
M577A2 deployed with camouflage screen in place.
Like the M113 it is based off of, the M577 was heavily exported with at least 5,000 units in current service with at least 11 nations world-wide, several of which undertook licensed production. Declared obsolete in 2012, the M577 (M1068) series is due to be replaced by the XM1286 Mission Command Vehicle variant of the Armored Multi-Purpose Vehicle based off of the M2 Bradley in 2020, but will continue to soldier on until then.
Thermal Signature
