DAF YP-408

The DAF YP-408 is a Dutch wheeled armored personnel carrier developed by DAF Trucks in the late 1950s. Following the development of prototypes, the vehicle was produced in large numbers during the 1960s and formally entered service with the Netherlands Army in 1964.

The vehicle utilizes an 8×6 wheel suspension system featuring the DAF H-drive, with power delivered to three of its four axles. It is powered by a six-cylinder turbodiesel engine paired with a five-speed gearbox and a two-speed transfer case. The hull consists of steel armor plates. In its standard infantry configuration, the vehicle carries a driver, a gunner, and a section of infantry. This version is armed with a 12.7 mm Browning M2 heavy machine gun and a secondary 7.62 mm machine gun, supplemented by smoke canisters.

Several specialized variants were produced or converted from the base infantry model. The PWCO is a command version equipped with a desk and additional radio sets for coordination. For medical evacuation, the unarmed PWGWT variant is configured to carry wounded personnel and a medic. The PWMR serves as a mortar carrier, towing a 120 mm mortar while housing the mortar detachment and ammunition. Anti-tank capabilities are provided by the PWAT variant, which replaces the standard machine gun with a TOW missile launcher. Surveillance needs are met by the PWRDR, which carries a Marconi ZB-298 battlefield surveillance radar that can be operated from the roof or a tripod. Other variants include dedicated cargo carriers and platoon command vehicles.

The Netherlands was the primary operator of the YP-408, maintaining the fleet in service until 1987. In 1975, upon the independence of Suriname, vehicles previously stationed in the territory with Dutch forces were transferred to the Surinamese army. Portugal also acquired several ex-Dutch units in the early 1990s. These vehicles were utilized by the Portuguese Air Force military police for air base security until the early 2000s.