HAIFA, Israel, Aug. 2 (UPI) -- Israel's Ministry of Defense unveiled the Eitan, a new 8-wheeled, indigenously made armored personnel carrier, which is set to gradually replace the M1113 fleet.

The advanced, multi-purpose APC can perform a variety of combat capabilities while transporting troops over difficult and varied terrain, the ministry said in a statement.


The 35-ton vehicle sports 750 horsepower and can reach speeds of about 54 mph.

Its development came about in response to the 2014 Gaza war and was undertaken even as the Namer APC procurement proceeded.

The Eitan will complement the Namer carrier by offering quick movement of mobile infantry forces.

It can carry 12 troops and features an unmanned turret with a 30mm or 40mm cannon.