kids encyclopedia robot

SPRAT facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts
SPRAT, le 14 juillet 2012 à Paris
The SPRAT bridge in Paris.

The SPRAT (which stands for Système de pose rapide de travures) is a special type of bridge that can be quickly set up. It's built on a large military truck. This amazing machine is made in France and is used by the French army. Its main job is to create a mobile bridge so that military vehicles can cross gaps like rivers or ditches. The French army started using the SPRAT in 2011.

What is the SPRAT Bridge?

The SPRAT is a unique solution for crossing gaps on the front lines of a battle. It's also known as a "Modular Assault Bridge." The word "modular" means it can be set up in different ways. This gives the army a big advantage for vehicles that weigh up to 80 tons (MLC 80). Since 2009, the SPRAT has been an important part of the French Army's equipment.

How Does the SPRAT Work?

The SPRAT bridge system is very clever.

  • It can deploy two short bridges, each 14.3 meters long.
  • Or, it can deploy one long bridge, which is 26 meters long.
  • The bridge is put into place from a protected driver's cabin. This keeps the operators safe.
  • It can set up the long bridge in just 10 minutes with two operators. This quick setup helps it stay hidden during operations.

Building Bridges on Tough Ground

The SPRAT is designed to work in challenging places.

  • It has strong support legs that help it set up a bridge even on uneven ground.
  • This means it doesn't need perfectly flat riverbanks to work.
  • The bridges are very strong. They can handle vehicles weighing up to 80 tons.
  • They can cross gaps up to 24 meters wide, over and over again.
  • The bridges are tested to be super strong and last a long time, even under stress.

Smart Technology and Transport

The SPRAT uses modern technology to help soldiers.

  • It has a digital, automated computer system.
  • This system includes a special camera that can see in the dark (an IR camera).
  • It also has easy-to-use controls for the operator.
  • This means the SPRAT can be used day or night.
  • The entire system weighs less than 60 metric tons.
  • Because it's not too heavy, it can drive on regular roads.
  • It can also be transported by air, making it very flexible for military operations.

Who Makes the SPRAT?

The SPRAT assault bridge is made by a French company called CNIM.

kids search engine
All content from Kiddle encyclopedia articles (including the article images and facts) can be freely used under Attribution-ShareAlike license, unless stated otherwise. Cite this article:
SPRAT Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.