HMBV is based on a surplus German Krauss-Maffei Wegmann Leopard 2A4 MBT chassis. For its new role the turret has been removed and replaced by a new superstructure of welded armoured steel. Vehicle commander and engineer are seated in this well-protected superstructure with each provided with day periscopes for all round observation and a single-piece hatch cover. To carry out its mine breaching role the HMBV is fitted with a complete suite of mine clearing equipment supplied by Pearson Engineering of the UK. This consists of a Full Width Mine Plough or a Surface Mine Plough that is installed at the front of the vehicle and operated by the driver. To enable it to carry out some combat engineer roles, a Pearson Engineering Combat Dozer Blade can also be installed at the front of the chassis. This can be used to clear battlefield obstacles, prepare firing positions or prepare sites for bridging operations. The mine breaching and dozer blade can be rapidly installed on the front of the chassis using an interface system developed by Patria Weapon Systems and Pearson Engineering. This interface system includes an electro-hydraulic power pack installed inside of the crew compartment, external high lift adapter and a hydraulic emergency jettison system. Mounted either side of the hull rear is a Pearson Engineering Clear Lane Marking System which vertically deploys pennants into the ground as the HMBV moves forwards. HMBV is operated by a crew of three consisting of the commander, engineer and driver with space being provided for an additional crew member.