In the late 1960s the military were looking for a larger payload vehicle which could tow a 4000lb light gun. It also had to be able to be carried by helicopter and had to be no heavier than 3500lb.

A forward control model would give the best format for providing the space required but the available model from Land Rover did not meet the load/tow requirements, so a new vehicle was designed.

The V8 and drivetrain from the Range Rover was mounted on a new 101" chassis on the latest very strong Salisbury axles. The vehicle weighs 4040lb but only 3500lb in stripped down form so could be carried by Wessex and Puma helicopters.