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10 Jan 25. UK LMV RFI. The UK Ministry of Defence has a requirement for the production, supply, in-service support and training for a Light Mobility Vehicle (LMV). The Ministry of Defence has a requirement for the production, supply, in-service support and training for a Light Mobility Vehicle (LMV) as part of the Land Mobility Programme (LMP).
LMV will explore multiple options including delivery of a wheeled utility platform to modernise capability in roles currently filled by Land Rover and Pinzgauer with a Common Based Platform delivering warfighting roles across the Joint Force.
As part of this option analysis, the Authority is inviting industry to participate in a Preliminary Market Engagement (PME) exercise in support of the development of our acquisition strategy. Specifically, we seek information from industry to help us:
- Establish the potential for an Off The Shelf (OTS) solution to meet the LMV requirement.
- Obtain a greater awareness of what the market can currently provide to inform the LMV requirement.
- To inform through life cost and cost of ownership.
- To potentially inform further pre market engagement activity.
This Request for Information has been issued to enable industry to receive the PME and to respond within a specific timeline.
¤ Next Steps ~ Any suppliers who have an interest in this PME should express an interest to: DES-LandMobilityProgramme-LightM[at]mod[dot]gov[dot]uk (Source: joint-forces.com)
09 Jan 25. The South American market for armored vehicles is expected to increase from US$417m in 2024 to US$563m in 2029, at a CAGR of 6.2%. With a cumulative spending of US$3.1bn through 2024 2029..
Brazil is the largest market in the region, with a cumulative spending of US$1.9 bn over the period 2024-2029, followed by Columbia – US$434m, and Argentina – US$386m.
The leading programs include Brazil’s procurement of 1,416 VBTP Guarans APCs for US$2.4bn and 221 Centauro II tactical vehicles for US$2.1bn, Colombia’s acquisition of 55 light armored vehicles for US$313m, Argentina’s acquisition of 120 6×6 Guarani for US$201m, and Chile’s 280 MARDER 1A3 IFVs for US$140m.
ARGENTINA APC, IFV and Tactical and support vehicles In February 2023, Argentina announced its plan to procure 156 domestically produced 6×6 Guarani VCBR TP vehicles in APC, IFV and tactical vehicle variants from Iveco.
In the following months, the Argentine Army conducted an extensive technical-operational evaluation (ETO) of the Guarani test vehicles across various geographical environments, successfully passing all tests. However,
Argentina has been unable to finalize the procurement due to Brazil’s reluctance to fund the project. Meanwhile, Argentina is considering proposals for several 8×8 wheeled armored combat vehicles, including the M1126 Stryker from the US, the Pandur II from Israel, and the LAV 5 model 2003 from New Zealand.
A contract is anticipated to be signed by the end of 2024 or early 2025. MBT: TAM 2C modernization In June 2022, domestic company Industrias Mecánicas Pescarmona SA (IMPSA) won a contract from the Argentine army to upgrade the turret of the Argentine Medium Tank (TAM) as part of the TAM 2C modernization program.
This program involves the modernization of the FCS and commanders/gunners’ optics and stabilization of the 105mm gun, which would allow the TAM MBT to detect and engage targets under various weather conditions or at any time of the day/night. It also includes a new sighting system, much like the Commander Open Architecture Panoramic Sight (COAPS) system made by Elbit Systems, and a new detection system.
The first modernized TAM was delivered to the Army the following October, with all 126 units expected to enter service by 2029. The total program value has been estimated at around US$189m
BRAZIL LMV: BR2/VBMT-LR program In July 2024, the Brazilian army signed a US$257.3 m contract with Italy’s Iveco Defense to acquire 420 LMV-BR 2 light multirole vehicles, referred to domestically as “Guaicurus.” These vehicles are anticipated to enhance the army’s tactical readiness across diverse terrains.
The LMV-BR 2, introduced in 2001, is a 4×4 light armored vehicle designed for transport, reconnaissance, combat, and peacekeeping missions. It features a V-hull and a collapsible sandwich structure for protection against mine blasts, while its modular design allows for customizable armor based on specific needs.
Under the contract, Brazil will receive two variants of the LMV-BR 2: one featuring a manual weapon system and the other with a remote-controlled weapons station. Production will occur at Iveco’s facility in southeastern Brazil, with deliveries slated to start in 2026 and continue through 2029. Tactical and Support Vehicles: Centauro II – VBC Cav-MSR In November 2022, the Brazilian army contracted a Leonardo and Iveco consortium to search for around 98 Centauro II tactical vehicles, with the total procurement expected to increase to 221 vehicles over the long term.
The Centauro II was selected over other competing designs, such as the LAV 700 with a Cockerill turret by General Dynamics Land Systems (GDLS), the Tigon by Hanwha, the ST-1 by NORINCO, the Eitan by Ares-Elbit Systems, and the Kestrel by Tata Motors. The vehicles are expected to replace the Army’s aging fleet of EE-9 Cascavel armored cars. The total program is expected to value over US$2bn, with around US$420 million being spent over the period 2024-2029.
APC: Guarani VBTP-MR 6×6 ARMORED VEHICLE GLOBAL DEFENCE ACQUISITION REPORT 2025-2029 In December 2009, the Brazilian army contracted Iveco to procure as many as 2,044 VBTP-MR Guarani APCs for a total consideration of around US$3.4 bn.
However, financial considerations trimmed this number to 1,416, with deliveries spread out until 2037. IDV is currently producing 60 Brazilian vehicles annually at the plant in Sete Lagoas. Each vehicle is 6.91m long, 2.34m high, and has an overall width of 2.7m. It has an empty weight of 14.5t and a gross vehicle weight of 17.7t for amphibious operations. It is also equipped with a turret built by Elbit Systems and features electric drive and stabilization systems, fire control systems, gunner and commander sights, and life support systems. The total program value has been revised to US$2.4 bn, with US$629m expected to be spent over the period 2024-2029
CHILE APC: Bastion 4×4 armored vehicles In December 2023, France’s Arquus secured a contract to supply five Bastion 4×4 armored vehicles to Chie.
The Arquus Bastion is a modular 12.5-ton armored vehicle built on the 4×4 chassis derived from the company’s VLRA light tactical vehicle family. It is designed to provide a blend of tactical performance, durability, and easy maintenance, accommodating a crew of two and eight additional personnel.
Production of the Bastions has already commenced at Arquus’s New Vehicle Production Center of Excellence in Limoges, with deliveries scheduled for the end of 2024. While the contract value has not been disclosed, Chile is expected to invest approximately US$5m in this program in 2024
PERU Wheeled Armored Vehicle (WAV) – K808 In May 2024, the Peruvian Army signed a contract with a consortium of South Korean defense manufacturers, STX and Hyundai Rotem, for the procurement of K808 wheeled armored vehicles.
Under the terms of the contract, Peru’s Arms and Ammunition Factory (FAME SAC) will collaborate with the Korean manufacturers, and a new vehicle assembly plant will be set up at FAME headquarters to produce a range of advanced special units.
This agreement positions STX-Hyundai Rotem as a primary supplier of defense and specialized vehicles for the Peruvian Army. The Army is set to receive 120 K-808 White Tiger 8×8 wheeled armored vehicles by 2029, with the initial batch of 30 units expected by the end of 2025. The K-808 is designed with puncture-resistant tires and an automatic control system that adjusts tire pressure based on terrain. It also features an amphibious propulsion system, allowing it to navigate rivers.
Peru is anticipated to invest around US$240 m in this program from 2024 to 2029. (SOURCE: DEFENCEIQ)
07 Jan 25. PIK-AS Austria GmbH Invests Again in Expanding Manufacturing Capacities. PIK-AS Austria GmbH, a leading international manufacturer of electrical products for special-purpose vehicles, has made another significant step towards sustainable growth by investing in the expansion of its production, storage, and office facilities. With the acquisition of a new production site in Mariasdorf (Austria), PIK-AS Austria GmbH is positioning itself to meet the growing demands of the market and future challenges. Through this investment in Mariasdorf, the company is also making a commitment to regionality, taking responsibility for the local economy and job security in the region. By strengthening its local presence, PIK-AS Austria GmbH contributes to the sustainable development of the area and reinforces its role as a dependable regional employer.
Managing Director DI(FH) Christina Polster, celebrating these days her 10-year anniversary in this role, expressed her pride in the company’s achievements. “We reflect on more than 40 years of company history, built with foresight and dedication by founder Franz Polster. His focus on reliability, customer proximity, and high-quality products has laid the foundation for our current position as a leading provider.” The investment in the new production facility is part of a long-term strategy to meet the increasing demand for robust, high-quality solutions for special-purpose vehicles. In addition to expanding production capacities, the company plans to invest in state-of-the-art testing equipment and advanced production tools. “We are confident that these actions will not only allow us to maintain our market leadership but also open up new markets and further solidify our position as a preferred supplier for OEMs worldwide,” Polster emphasized.
Among PIK-AS Austria’s most popular products are its high-performance connectors (VG96917, VG96923, VG96921, STANAG4047), LED interior lights, light switches, followed by high power contactors. These products are particularly valued in the military sector for their durability, reliability, and user-friendliness. From the early stages of product development, the company ensures compliance with international standards and rigorous testing procedures to meet the highest customer expectations. While technological advancements remain a key focus, PIK-AS Austria GmbH continues to prioritize customer satisfaction. “Our goal is to make our customers’ project workflows as smooth as possible. We achieve this through collaborative partnerships, tailored solutions, and reliability. Handshake-quality has been a hallmark of our company for decades,” Polster explained.
Long-standing partnerships with customers and suppliers are the base for this approach. “We are honored that our partners have trusted us for many years. This trust motivates us to continue developing innovative solutions that meet the high demands of our customers,” Polster added. With this latest investment, PIK-AS Austria GmbH underscores its commitment to being a reliable partner for high-quality products, not only today but also in the future. The expanded capacities enable the company to respond flexibly to market needs while strengthening its position as a leader in innovation. “We look to the future with great confidence and are excited to continue supporting our customers with high-quality, customized products and exceptional service,” Polster concluded.
(Source: Defense Arabia)
09 Jan 25. “Telford is at the heart of UK Defence” – Minister visits site behind next generation of tanks and armoured vehicles.
Telford’s skilled manufacturing base is helping equip soldiers with high-tech equipment and drive the government’s growth mission, Defence Minister Maria Eagle has said.
* State-of-the-art facility in Telford plays a key role in delivering cutting-edge armoured vehicles to the British Army.
* Investment in defence has attracted over £56m for defence manufacturing facility in Telford.
* New Defence Industrial Strategy to help secure Britain’s growth mission and create high value jobs across UK.
Telford’s skilled manufacturing base is helping equip soldiers with high-tech equipment and drive the government’s growth mission, Defence Minister Maria Eagle has said.
Her comments came on a visit today to Rheinmetall BAE Systems Land (RBSL)’s Hadley Castle Works Factory in Telford, where she met crucial defence procurement staff and chaired a roundtable with defence industry leaders from the Telford area, as part of consultation for the new Defence Industrial Strategy.
The site is at the forefront of producing the Army’s newest tank, the Challenger 3, which is at the heart of the Army’s armoured warfighting force and will serve as the most lethal tank ever used by British Armed Forces.
Under a £950m contract, Challenger 3 production has generated nearly 300 highly skilled jobs within RBSL, including 130 engineers and 70 technicians, as well as an additional 450 roles supported across the UK supply chain.
Contracts like this are a key part of the UK Government’s Plan for Change, safeguarding national security whilst raising living standards across the UK with good, skilled, productive jobs.
Defence investment continues to make a substantial contribution to the local economy, supporting over 1,500 skilled jobs and nearly 40 apprentices and graduates in Telford and Wrekin.
Minister for Defence Procurement and Industry, Maria Eagle MP, said: “Telford is at the heart of UK defence, and I was pleased to witness first-hand how our defence industry is equipping the Armed Forces with 21st-century armoured fighting vehicles.
In the face of global threats, the upcoming Defence Industrial Strategy will drive economic growth, boost British jobs, and strengthen national security. £5bn is being invested in equipping the British Army with 148 Challenger 3 tanks and 623 Boxer armoured vehicles, planned to be in service by the end of 2030. These investments continue to solidify the UK’s position as a global leader in defence innovation and manufacturing.”
Will Gibby, Managing Director of RBSL, said: “We are proud to welcome Maria Eagle MP to our Telford facility. Through programmes like Boxer and Challenger 3, RBSL is committed to providing sovereign capability for the UK, supporting the British Army, and investing in the workforce of tomorrow through our apprenticeship and graduate schemes. Today’s visit highlights the value of UK-based manufacturing and the expertise we bring to the defence industry.”
Nick Taylor, Head of Combat Vehicles at DE&S, the MOD’s procurement agency delivering Challenger 3 and Boxer said: “This has been a great opportunity for the Minister to experience the close collaboration that exists between RBSL, the Army, and DE&S colleagues to re-establish armoured vehicle manufacturing in Telford and deliver our two major programmes – Challenger 3 and Boxer.
The Defence Industrial Strategy underlines the government’s commitment to forging long-term partnerships with the defence industry. This strategy will ensure economic growth, regional prosperity, and resilience by supporting skilled jobs and apprenticeships.”
Defence investment continues to make a substantial contribution to the UK economy. Over 1500 (200 RBSL and 1,497 Leidos) businesses across the UK are sustained through the supply chain because of defence investment.
Findings from the British Army’s Oxford Economic Report highlight the major contributions Armed Forces spending makes to the UK economy. For every £1 directly contributed by the Army, a total of £2.70 is stimulated through multiplier effects.
There has also been £169m in R&D investment and the upskilling of over 12,000 recruits through apprenticeship programmes, with 1,400 enrolled in higher education schemes.
Alongside her visit to the factory and industry talks, Minister Eagle also had the opportunity to tour the cutting-edge Defence Fulfillment Centre (DFC). The £83m DFC at MOD Donnington plays a crucial role in supporting the UK Armed Forces by ensuring the efficient delivery of critical equipment and supplies across the globe.
Operated by DE&S in partnership with Leidos, the DFC exemplifies innovation within defence logistics and supports operational readiness. It is one of two major storage and distribution locations for the Ministry of Defence, the other at MOD Bicester, with a new facility at Longtown currently in construction.
Simon Hutchings, VP Logistics Commodities Services Transformation Programme (LCST) at Leidos, said: “I am immensely proud of what Leidos has achieved to date on the development of the Defence Fulfilment Centre in Telford and as the prime integrator for LCST. The flexible capacity and strategic network resilience we’ve established have significantly bolstered defence resilience and enhanced our ability to support the war fighters with better, more agile adaptive logistics.”
Since 2015, the LCST, based at the DFC, has delivered over £1 bn worth of products to the UK Armed Forces, getting everything from food rations to boots exactly where they need to be, at the right price and at the right time.
The LCST contract has helped bring the UK MOD into 21st-century, by identifying how the private sector can be leveraged to support UK Defence in distributing equipment to military personnel so they’re able to carry out their critical duties, all while delivering significant value for money to the taxpayer. (Source: https://www.gov.uk/)
08 Jan 25. 40 new Bushmasters to secure 250 Aussie jobs. Minister for Defence Industry and Capability Delivery Pat Conroy has announced the government will build more than 40 Bushmaster Protected Mobility Vehicles as part of a $100 m contract.
Thales Australia will manufacture the Bushmaster Protected Mobility Vehicles (PMV) in Bendigo, Victoria, continuing the city’s proud tradition of producing these iconic vehicles for over 20 years. Renowned for their robust design and battlefield effectiveness, Bushmasters have served in operations worldwide, providing life-saving protection for troops in diverse combat environments.
The latest production contract, valued at over $100m, will not only bolster the Australian Army’s capabilities but also support hundreds of local jobs in Bendigo and stimulate economic activity across Victoria’s supply chain.
Minister Conroy said, “The Bushmaster vehicles will contribute to the acceleration of a land-based long-range strike capability for the Army, demonstrating a commitment to modernising the Australian Defence Force.”
These newly built Bushmasters will be assigned to the Army’s second long-range fires regiment, based at the Edinburgh Defence Precinct in South Australia under the 10th Fires Brigade. The vehicles will play a critical role in supporting a multi-mission phased array radar battery, enabling advanced command and control capabilities essential for modern warfare.
“This contract underscores the Albanese government’s commitment to providing the Australian Defence Force with the capabilities and equipment it needs to keep Australians safe,” Minister Conroy said.
Jeff Connolly, CEO, Thales Australia and New Zealand, welcomed this announcement, saying, “This is an important investment by the Government in Australia’s industrial base that will deliver the capabilities our army needs – a battle-proven and locally-made platform that will get the job done for decades to come.
Since taking office, the Albanese government has committed over $300 m to contracts for new Bendigo-built Bushmasters, resulting in the delivery of more than 130 additional vehicles to the Australian Army.
Minister Conroy said, “This additional investment will support hundreds of jobs, underscoring the Albanese government’s commitment not only to the people of the Bendigo region but to building Australia’s future.”
Mr Connolly added, “What makes the Bushmaster so special is our nationally critical manufacturing facility at Bendigo and its unique blend of the engineering expertise, technical skills, and dedicated workforce who do such a great job for the nation. The Bushmaster is an excellent example of what we do at Thales Australia as a trusted partner of the Australian government, utilising local skills, design, engineering and technology to protect the interests of Australia, our allies and partners.”
The Bushmaster PMV is a trusted platform for nine nations, offering exceptional protection and mobility, making it a preferred choice for militaries worldwide, it has reinforced its reputation underscored by its life-saving performance on operations, credited with safeguarding Australian soldiers and now protecting Ukrainian forces in the ongoing conflict. (Source: Defence Connect)
02 Jan 25. The revolutionary KIA ATV (All Terrain Vehicle) Powered by Hydrogen made its first appearance outside of Korea at MSPO 2023 in Poland, writes Bob Morrison. It is probably unsurprising that Korean manufacturer KIA chose the annual Kielce defence expo for the foreign launch of its futuristic defence vehicle prototype, as not only was Korea the Lead Nation Exhibitor at the Polish event but just the month before around 400 Korea Light Tactical Vehicles (KLTV) were ordered for Poland’s Border Guards. The KIA ‘ATV Powered by Hydrogen’ (a temporary name) would also make an appearance last February at World Defense Show 2024 in Saudi Arabia, where we had a second chance to snap it on a company stand, though as of yet we have not managed to photograph it on the move.
Some basic specification and dimensional details were released at Kielce and from these we know that the ATV, which is based on the second generation KIA Mohave / Borrego SUV, has a 2895mm wheelbase and measures approximately 5000x1900x1900mm. Approach and Departure Angles are 30° and 25° respectively and Ground Clearance is 220mm. Using Hyundai parent company technology the KIA ATV is powered by a 90kW / 120hp electric motor from a hydrogen fuel cell stack, with 6.3kg hydrogen tank and 1.56 kWh battery giving a stated range of 480km. It will be interesting to see where the KIA ‘ATV Powered by Hydrogen’ turns up next and if we get the chance to photograph it on the move. Hydrogen-powered vehicle technology is advancing fast as the world turns away from fossil fuels and it is probably only a matter of time before we see the first military vehicles using this power source entering service. (Source: joint-forces.com)
07 Jan 25. GM Defense, a subsidiary of General Motors, is introducing a new level of sophistication to covert armored vehicles in the Middle East by providing next generation armored Suburban Shields to the Qatar Armed Forces. Please read the full press release here (also pasted below), including an image of the Suburban Shield. Additional defense and government entities in UAE have expressed interest in our next generation protected vehicle.
GM Defense leverages the advanced technologies and global supply chain of its parent, General Motors, to bring modern solutions to UAE. For example, the business’ Infantry Squad Vehicle was one of three vehicles to complete the UAE Summer Trials two years ago on its first time at the Trials. Please let me know if you have any questions or need a high resolution image. Thank you!
GM Defense is providing next generation Suburban Shield armored vehicles to the Qatar Armed Forces and Special Forces Command for protected diplomatic security and VIP transport.
The Suburban Shield is based on General Motors’ full-size pickup truck and sport utility vehicle architecture. The vehicle features a high percentage of commercial parts, including the body, exterior, propulsion, interior, and brakes.
Suburban Shield includes a new and unique body-on-frame chassis and suspension system, designed to support increased vehicle weight and performance requirements. The vehicle leverages digital engineering and GM’s global quality management system to realize efficiencies throughout the development phase while ensuring the highest levels of quality and performance.
“GM Defense’s next-generation Suburban Shield offers the Qatar Armed Forces unrivaled performance thanks to GM’s advanced technologies,” said Steve duMont, president of GM Defense. “We engineered the Suburban Shield from the ground up as a protected vehicle using GM’s world-class process and tools to deliver the reliability and quality expected from a GM vehicle. We’re confident the vehicle will help the Qatar Armed Forces effectively carry out their important diplomatic security missions and are excited to see Suburban Shield introduce a new level of sophistication to protected vehicles in the region.”
GM Defense incorporates protective armor into the original design and manufacturing process, diverging from previous after-market, tear-down and rebuild practices. New design features help ensure the vehicle is safe and reliable, while meeting GM’s stringent commercial standards.
“Our OEM-provided solution benefits from GM’s world-class technologies, engineering and validation capabilities, and global quality management systems that traditional defense contractors don’t offer,” said Bradley Watters, vice president of international business development for GM Defense. “With Suburban Shield, GM Defense delivers a one-of-a-kind solution that outperforms previous generation vehicles. We’re proud to offer this capability to the Qatar Armed Forces that will help replace their legacy platforms.”
Suburban Shield includes independent armoring certification with options and configurations to suit customer requirements.
GM Defense also provides customized Suburban Shields to the U.S. Department of State’s (DoS) Diplomatic Security Service (DSS) in support of its Heavy-Duty armored Sport Utility Vehicle program. The company recently completed some of the first production vehicles for the law enforcement and security arm of the DoS.
For the latest GM Defense news, please visit www.GMDefenseLLC.com, and follow GM Defense on LinkedIn.
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TEK Military Seating Limited
TEK Military Seating Limited is a UK based designer and manufacturer of ProTEK military vehicle seating which offer the highest standards of safety and protection. The ProTEK brand is well respected across the globe for its robust construction, innovative design, built in modularity and cost effectiveness. Our superior products are supported by our experienced team who endeavor to offer unrivalled service to our customers from enquiry, through design and acceptance, to through life support.
From its inception ProTEK seats have been designed around a family of innovative seat frames onto which tested and certified modules can be fitted to create a bespoke solution for the user. These include Blast protection to Stanag 4569 standards, vibration reduction, head and body protection, seat risers and turntables, fore & aft adjustment, and seat back rake along with viable seat dimensions without the need for additional tooling costs.
Contact: Paul Fleming
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