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Ratel

Basic Artillery Observation System (BAOS)/

Enhanced Artillery Observation System (EAOS)

Ratel EAOS

Variant Specifications*

First Produced/Service Dates:	Mid to Late 1990's
Manufactured by:	African Defence Systems
Crew:	1+4
Armament:	BAOS?- Main: 60mm Breech-Load Mortar: Co-Axial: 7.62mm M1919 Browning Machine Gun (BMG) EAOS- Commander: 7.62mm BMG
Miscellaneous Info:	The primary purpose of the Ratel Infantry Combat Vehicle (ICV) series was to produce an indigenous South African built Infantry Fighting Vehicle. The result was the main series variant, the Ratel 20 ICV.  All other series variants stem from this vehicle, including both the Ratel Basic Artillery Observation System (BAOS) and Enhanced Artillery Observation System (EAOS) Vehicles. Both the BAOS and EAOS Ratels are part of the South African Artillery Engagement System and act as Fire Support Team Vehicles. The BAOS vehicle performs the tasks of target observation and acquisition; most importantly determining the exact location of the target(s).  Although the EAOS Ratel can perform the same roles, it has more capable equipment to do so (i.e. longer range sensors).  In addition, the EAOS also performs other functions, such as fire requests and fire control.  Neither the BAOS and EAOS variants were built new, but used modified pre-existing Ratel hulls and turrets.  The BAOS variant was built using the Ratel 60 Command Vehicle (CV) turret (and possibly the hull as well).  The EAOS variant used the Ratel 60 CV hull and replaced the turret with a raised superstructure instead.  Although the BAOS has modest sensor equipment fitted for performing it's role, the EAOS is just the opposite.  The EAOS Ratel has a hydraulically operated mast, fitted with an extensive sensor package. That package includes video camera, long-range zoom lens, infra-red capability, laser designator and laser range-finder with video channel.  The EAOS variant also has a computer system for more complicated tasks such as calculating firing solutions.  It is also equipped with additional radios for communications, including three long range (and data capable), one mid-range and one short-range set.  Reportedly, six (6) EAOS Ratels were built, although we have not determined how many BAOS variants were fielded.  *For specifications common to all variants in this series of vehicles, go to our Warwheels.net Ratel Index.
Data Sheet Available:	None Available

Photos

Reference	Source/Provider
Ratel Basic Artillery Observation System (BAOS) Vehicle Photos	South African National Defence Force
Ratel Basic Artillery Observation System (BAOS) Vehicle Photo	Marius van Aardt- South Africa
Ratel Enhanced Artillery Observation System (EAOS) Vehicle Photos	Marius van Aardt

References Available

Online

Model Photos

For information common to all variants in this series of vehicles, go to our

WarWheels.Net Ratel Index