The purpose of V-hulls is to increase vehicle and crew survivability by deflecting an upward directed blast from a landmine (or Improvised Explosive Device) away from the vehicle, while also presenting a sloped armor face.[4][5] By presenting its armor at an angle, it increases the amount of material a ballistic projectile must pass through in order to penetrate the vehicle, and increases the chance of deflection.
V-hulls are incorporated in armored vehicle designs in several different ways. Many vehicles, such as the BAE SystemsRG-33 incorporate the V-hull into a monocoquechassis, while others, such as the ATF Dingo and International MaxxPro use a body-on-frame chassis, with an armored V-hull crew compartment, and an additional V or semicircular shaped piece protecting the driveline.[6] Others, such as the Cougar H have a V-hull crew compartment, and allow the driveline and suspension components to be sacrificed in an attack, while maintaining the safety of the crew.
A Bushmaster IMV after encountering an IED; the drive train and utility bins were destroyed, but the hull is intact and the crew survived with only minor injuries.