A M.A.B., or as it's referred to by it's operators, MAB, is an acronym for Mobile Assault Bridge. Basically, it's a 26 ton amphibious transporter that carries a hydralically operated Class60 bridge section. The rear of the vehicle has a large pivotting propeller shaft attached below a control station.You drive the transporter into the water,The marine drive unit is lowered into operating position, and it's propeller shaft extended. The bridge section is then hydralically lifted and rotated, then lowered and locked down with 4 large retaining bolts by the deckhand. The MAB is then manuvered alongside another unit. Ropes are thrown across from one vehicle to the other, and utilizing electrically powered capstans, the rigs are slowly pulled together, until the bridge sections interlock and are secured by hydralically operated pins. Numerous MABs are connected using folding end ramp units, with 4 or more bridge units inbetween. sal;
