The full form of IFV in military context is Infantry Fighting Vehicle.
An Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV) is a type of armored fighting vehicle designed to transport infantry into battle and provide direct fire support. These vehicles are typically armed with an autocannon of 20mm or greater caliber, and often equipped with machine guns and anti-tank guided missiles. They offer protection to the infantry inside, enabling them to fight from within the vehicle or dismount and engage the enemy. IFVs represent a significant enhancement in the mobility and firepower of infantry units.
Here's a breakdown of the components:
- Infantry: Refers to foot soldiers or infantrymen.
- Fighting: Indicates the vehicle's capability to engage in combat.
- Vehicle: Denotes that it is a land-based, armored vehicle.
The primary role of an IFV is to provide protected transport and firepower for infantry squads, allowing them to maneuver effectively on the battlefield while engaging enemy forces. Examples of IFVs include the American M2 Bradley, the Russian BMP series, and the German Puma.
