An apparatus for deploying a payload to a hostile target. The payload may be separable from the apparatus or may be internal to the apparatus. The apparatus has two outboard drive wheels flanking a hollow body. A payload delivery mechanism is disposed on a frame inside and concealed by the hollow body. The payload delivery mechanism has a first, retracted position inside the hollow body and extends through a port to a second position to deliver a payload to a hostile target. The payload may be separable from the apparatus or may be internal to the apparatus. If the payload is internal to the apparatus, upon attachment to a hostile target the payload delivery mechanism may retract to be less visually conspicuous.

A spring loaded device for launching projectiles in a hostile environment. The device has an articulable launch assembly. The launch assembly has a spring loaded carriage for holding the projectile when loaded by an operator or a superjacent magazine. The carriage is retracted by a screw to a predetermined position based upon spring rate and the desired initial launch velocity and launch angle. Upon command or target acquisition a release mechanism releases the carriage for forward translation and launch of the projectile.

Embodiments of the invention relate to a drive system for armored electric vehicles and a method for its operation in event of a fire of the traction battery.