Alvis Vickers developed the Scarab scout vehicle as a private venture and a number of European countries have evaluated the vehicle.

So far, one prototype and two pre-production Scarab vehicles have been built and development is now complete. Typical roles include command, patrol and reconnaissance.

To reduce overall life-cycle costs, Scarab uses proven subsystems where possible. The engine and complete driveline are from the Mercedes-Benz Unimog 4x4 cross-country vehicle, for which a well-established dealer network exists.

Compared to other vehicles of this type, Scarab has a high level of protection against small-arms fire, shell splinters and anti-tank mines.

Protection is provided against 7.62mm armour-piercing (AP) attack through a full 360°, while through the front 60° arc protection is provided against 12.7mm AP attack.

To meet different operational requirements, Scarab can be fitted with various types of enhanced armour packages. These include one that protects the underside of the vehicle against self-forging fragment mines.

The strength of the Scarab's crew depends on the mission but typically it consists of three people: the driver in the centre at the front and an additional two behind, one either side.

A wide range of weapon stations can be fitted, including a pintle-mounted 7.62mm or 12.7mm machine gun. Overhead weapon stations can be installed armed with similar weapons or a 20mm cannon.

These weapons can also be integrated with a day/night sensor package and a land navigation system to allow the crew to undertake all-weather reconnaissance missions.

Standard equipment includes bulletproof windows, power-assisted steering, run-flat inserts and an environmental control system, which comprises air conditioning, heater and nuclear, biological and chemical defensive systems. Optional equipment includes a central tyre-pressure regulation system and a front-mounted winch.