Command Unit

RVC had the privilege of working with Essex Search & Rescue to help deliver their new Incident Control Vehicle, based on a Peugeot Boxer L4H3.

Designed to support the team during searches for high-risk and vulnerable missing people across Essex, the vehicle needed to provide far more than transportation. It had to operate as a fully functioning mobile command centre, giving volunteers the facilities, equipment and technology required to coordinate search operations effectively wherever they were deployed.

The interior was divided into dedicated operational and equipment areas. The control space incorporates networked computer systems, display screens, communications equipment, printing facilities, heating and an integrated electrical system, creating a practical workspace from which search operations can be managed in the field.

To the rear, extensive storage was incorporated for the team's specialist equipment, including medical kits, radios, torches, stretchers and water-search equipment.

We would like to extend our sincere thanks to System Edström, who kindly donated the interior storage solution used within the vehicle. Their lightweight modular system provided Essex Search & Rescue with a practical, durable and highly organised storage solution while also helping us manage the vehicle's overall weight requirements.

We would also like to thank our partners at Fleetshield for their support throughout the build. Their involvement and assistance played an important part in helping us deliver a finished vehicle that met the operational requirements of Essex Search & Rescue.

Additional welfare facilities, including hot water and hand-washing provisions, allow the vehicle to support volunteers during prolonged deployments.

Externally, the Boxer features high-visibility Search & Rescue livery, 360-degree scene lighting and a wind-out awning, providing additional working and briefing space when deployed on scene.

Every element of the conversion was designed around the way Essex Search & Rescue operates, resulting in a capable, organised and highly functional mobile command vehicle built to support the team and the vital work they carry out across Essex for years to come.