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01 Oct 25. Preferred bidder identified for new SANDF border patrol APC. State defence materiel agency Armscor has identified a preferred bidder for its armoured personnel carrier (APC) tender for the South African Army. Liziwe Nkonyana, Senior Manager: Corporate Communication at Armscor, told defenceWeb in response to a query that the procurement process is nearing finalisation, and a preferred bidder has been identified. She did not divulge which company has been selected.
“A request for Financial Authorisation (FA) has been submitted to the SA Army unit and we are awaiting approval thereof. The appointment of the preferred bidder will take place as soon as the FA is approved,” Nkonyana added.
In January 2023, Armscor issued a Request for Information (SA Army/R/403/6) for a 2+8 seat APC capable of counterinsurgency operations with variable ballistic and mine protection able to defeat an 8 kg mine. Seven companies responded to the RFI (DCD Protected Mobility, Denel, OTT Solutions, Paramount, Automotive Investment Holdings/ICP, and SVI). The intention was to evaluate the different vehicles along the South African borderline in operational conditions in October/November 2023 and afterwards demonstrate the vehicles during the SA Army’s Exercise Vuk’uhlome in November 2023, but this did not happen. Armscor was originally supposed to place the procurement contract from 1 April 2024, but this was delayed. On 23 July 2024, Armscor issued tender ELWS/2024/71 for personnel carrier vehicles for border patrol, to be utilised for internal and external missions of the SA Army. Nearly 500 vehicles are to be acquired, in three variants: 210 Section variants, 144 Command variants, and 108 Ambulance variants. The bid calls for a vehicle with a 13.5 ton Gross Vehicle Mass, while catering for a minimum payload of 1.5 tons. Ballistic protection must be to NATO STANAG Level 1 that covers 7.62 x 51 mm and 5.56 mm ball ammunition. Mine blast protection must be to Level 2 (single 6 kg surrogate mine placed under the vehicle). Bids were initially due to close on 23 August last year, with deliveries expected on or before 15 March 2025. However, the tender has faced numerous challenges, including changing requirements – Armscor revised specifications, reducing the combat weight as the original user requirement was mostly taken from that of the Badger infantry fighting vehicle for the SA Army, and this was not practical for the vehicles required for border patrol. Bid validity was extended to cater to delays, and in a letter to bidders dated 17 June 2025, Armscor’s Supply Chain Management announced another extension. “There is a likelihood that the bid process will not be concluded before the expiry of the currently validity period. You are therefore requested to extend the validity period until 30 September 2025,” according to Samson Mahlangu on behalf of Executive Manager: Supply Chain Management. Market entry and bid proposal consultant James Kerr believes the bid’s requirements are a stretch for the industry to meet. He believes it would take at least a year for the first 60 vehicles to be delivered after tender award, and the remaining vehicles following at least three years after that. The new APCs will replace the troop pack vehicles previously acquired for border patrol – over 400 Toyota Land Cruisers were originally bought for this purpose. National Treasury allocated R500 m in 2024/25 for the procurement of vehicles to replace the troop packs. (Source: https://www.defenceweb.co.za/)
01 Oct 25. BAE Systems, Forterra partner for autonomous AMPV. The partners will seek to develop a self-driving AMPV prototype at a pace much faster than typical development timelines. BAE Systems has joined forces with autonomous systems provider Forterra to accelerate the development of an autonomous version of its Armoured Multi-Purpose Vehicle (AMPV). This partnership marks the first industry collaboration for BAE Systems under its vehicle capability kit series, which was introduced in September 2025. The company will utilise internal funds and the AMPV’s modular chassis to develop a range of technologically advanced prototypes, each equipped with distinct capability kits. As part of the latest collaboration, the company will work with Forterra to develop a ‘highly survivable, self-driving AMPV prototype’ that can be developed more swiftly than traditional timelines typically permit. A demonstration of this new capability is scheduled for 2026. BAE Systems ground manoeuvre product line director Bill Sheehy said: “Bringing together two of the best in both worlds—to include combat vehicle production and autonomous technology development—means we can move faster, think bigger, and give Soldiers the edge they deserve.” Forterra will contribute its AutoDrive full-stack autonomous vehicle system to this effort. Forterra’s capabilities are designed to integrate seamlessly with a variety of payloads to support a wide range of missions. (Source: army-technology.com)
30 Sep 25. Romania aims to buy Abrams tanks in $7bn deal-defence ministry. Romania’s defence ministry has asked parliament to approve a plan to acquire hundreds of Abrams tanks as well as ammunition, parts and training worth more than $7bn, it said in a statement on Tuesday. The European Union and NATO member signed a first contract to buy 54 Abrams tanks from U.S. army stock for $1.07bn in 2023, with full delivery estimated in 2028. It is now aiming to buy ammunition, parts, simulators, technical support and training for those tanks at a cost of $458.2m before VAT. It also aims to order an additional 216 tanks and parts for 6.49bn euros ($7.6bn) before VAT, it said. The Abrams is made by General Dynamics (GD.N). The statement did not specify when the equipment would be delivered. The country’s defence acquisition strategies are approved by its top security council, led by President Nicusor Dan, and large purchases must be cleared by parliament. (Source: Reuters)
30 Sep 25. Mali’s military displays new hardware during anniversary parade. Having recently received several batches of Chinese military hardware, Mali’s Armed Forces (FAMA) displayed its new equipment at its 23 September Independence Day Parade. At the beginning of September, the latest consignment of equipment arrived in Mali’s capital Bamako after being driven from Guinea’s port of Conakry. Media reports suggest a total of 160 armoured vehicles are being acquired from China’s Norinco, with at least 24 CS/VP14 mine-resistant ambush-protected (MRAP) vehicles, six 6×6 VN22B fire support vehicles armed with 105 mm guns, nine VN22 armoured personnel carriers (APCs), two CS/SH1 (PCL-09) truck-mounted 122 mm howitzers, three CTL-181A light tactical vehicles and two boats arriving in September. In late July/early August, the Malian Armed Forces (FAMA) took delivery of a batch of CS/VP14s and Dongfeng EQ2050 multi-purpose wheeled vehicles. The newly delivered equipment was displayed during Mali’s 65th anniversary of independence parade, including five SR5 multiple rocket launchers. Janes noted that the munition pods on the SR5s appeared to be for 122 mm rockets rather than the larger-calibre rockets and missiles the system is capable of launching. Also observed were five 122 mm CS/SH1 truck-mounted self-propelled howitzers, and five 120 mm CS/SM5 6×6 self-propelled mortars mounted on CTL-181 6×6 vehicles, all manufactured by Norinco.
CS/VP14 MRAPs.
Also seen during the parade were the CS/VP14s, VN22s, and VN22Bs. The Malian VN22s are fitted with the one-man turret armed with 14.5 mm and 7.62 mm machine guns used on some older types of Chinese APCs.
VN22B fire support vehicles.
In September 2024, Mali signed a contract with Norinco to provide unspecified military equipment, training, and a transfer of technology. The agreement was signed by Mali’s Defence Minister Sadio Camara and the head of Norinco in Beijing.
CSTL-181A vehicles fitted with 120 mm CS/SM6 mortars.
In January, a convoy was seen carrying over 100 vehicles in Bamako, comprising Russian T-72B3M tanks, BMP-3 infantry fighting vehicles, BTR-82A 8×8 armoured personnel carriers, and Spartak, Linza, and Tiger 4×4 armoured personnel carriers. Also seen were three D-30 towed artillery pieces, two anti-aircraft cannons, and a couple of boats.
Malian SR5 multiple rocket launchers.
It is believed this equipment may have come from Syria after the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime, and destined for Wagner/Africa Corps mercenaries fighting in Mali. None of the Russian equipment was seen during the 23 September parade, indicating it may be deployed in the field.
Two Su-24 strike aircraft that are presumed to be operated by the Africa Corps flew over the parade. According to Janes, they have already flown more than 78 hours in support of the FAMA in 2025. Also seen flying over were three L-39 jets, an Mi-8/17 helicopter, two Mi-24 attack helicopters, and an An-26 transport.
Seen at the 23 September parade for the first time were two ACMAT VLRA light trucks with a communications shelter and satellite dish. They are believed to be operated by the DTTIA (Directorate of Telecommunications and Information Technology). (Source: https://www.defenceweb.co.za/)
30 Sep 25. Poland’s Bumech and OTT collaborate on vehicle manufacture. Polish company Bumech has reached a cooperation agreement with South Africa’s OTT Technologies for the production of armoured vehicles in Poland. The agreement was signed on 3 September and covers production and development of armoured vehicles for the European market. Bumech specialises in the production of mining machinery. The company’s largest shareholder and President of the Management Board Marcin Sutkowski said “We want to stay in the mining industry overall, but gradually shift from coal mining to non-ferrous metals mining and maintain these competencies. We want to enter the defence sector, because this production is actually not difficult for us. We are able to transition to this production not in three years, but in three to six months.”
“This is a breakthrough moment for us. Drawing on our own resources, infrastructure, and acquired know-how, we are entering the dynamically developing defence market. Our collaboration with OTT Technologies opens up new opportunities for us, allowing us to offer Europe proven, and now locally produced, military solutions. Meeting growing defence needs and responding to announcements of economic re-Polonisation, we are optimistic about the reception of our future products manufactured in Polish production plants,” he said.
He added that his company wants to have demonstration vehicles built in the first quarter of 2026. In a stock exchange announcement, Bumech said the agreement with OTT aims to Europeanise OTT products so they can be manufactured, marketed, and distributed in the continent, notably Central Europe and Scandinavia. The cooperation will cover OTT’s Puma, LM series, and Bulldog armoured vehicles. The companies agreed in principle to installing an anti-drone protection system on the vehicles.
“The agreement includes technology transfer and support in production preparation and the creation of a supply chain. Initially, vehicle assembly will be based on components supplied by OTT, gradually transitioning to parts and components manufactured in European Union countries. Ultimately, full licensed production is planned, based on components originating at least 70% from the European Union,” the company announced in a press release.
In turn, Bumech, according to the agreement, is to provide “comprehensive financial support for the cooperation process, will bear the expenses related to the launch of production, as well as the costs of supporting the sale of products.” The agreement follows a July letter of intent between Bumech and OTT and will initially conclude at the end of 2027, but can be extended. OTT Technologies lists its new-build mine protected vehicle range as comprising the Puma M26, Puma M36 and LM13. Other products include the Bulldog M34 security vehicle, a manual turret, MAN truck bodies, security/cash in transit vehicles and remanufactured Casspirs, Ratels and Samils. Its Ratel Service Life Extension Programme (SLEP) was developed and funded in-house and features a lighter and more powerful engine and drivetrain, new sighting system and numerous other upgrades that make the Ratel competitive with modern vehicles. OTT offers the Ratel SLEP to the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) and foreign clients. (Source: https://www.defenceweb.co.za/)
30 Sep 25. Tata inaugurates first foreign vehicle manufacturing facility in Morocco. In an announcement on 23 September, Tata said the facility was inaugurated in Berrechid near Casablanca by India’s defence minister Rajnath Singh, and Abdeltif Loudyi, Minister Delegate to the Head of Government, in charge of National Defence Administration (de facto defence minister). Also in attendance was Sukaran Singh, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, Tata Advanced Systems Limited. Morocco’s official Maghreb Arabe Presse (MAP) news agency reported that the 20 000 square metre Tata Advanced Systems Maroc (TASM) factory has begun production of the WhAP for the Moroccan Royal Armed Forces (FAR) and potential foreign orders. The plant is expected to source 35% of its components locally, with plans to raise that to 50%. India’s Press Information Bureau reported that deliveries of the first WhAP vehicles to Morocco’s Army will take place in October. The facility became operation three months ahead of schedule, it added, noting that it is Morocco’s largest defence manufacturing facility and the first by an Indian private company in Africa. Speaking at the launch, Singh underlined that India’s vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat (Self-reliant India) is not merely to manufacture for own needs, but to develop capabilities that allows India to become a credible source of advanced technology and high-quality products for the world.
“For India, self-reliance does not mean isolation; rather, we aim to develop strategic autonomy under Aatmanirbharta. We want to develop capabilities that allow us to defend our nation independently while maintaining engagement with global partners. Along with ‘Make in India,’ we are also pursuing ‘Make with Friends’ and ‘Make for the World’; this facility in Morocco is a shining example of that approach,” he said.
“This is not just the opening of a new plant, but the beginning of a new chapter in the long-standing friendship between India and Morocco. The establishment of this facility is a symbol of the growing strategic convergence between our two nations and demonstrates the strength of India’s defence industry,” stated Singh.
In June, Morocco passed legislation to stimulate domestic defence manufacturing, aiming to meet the needs of its armed forces and cut down on imports. The Tata plant’s launch follows a bilateral agreement signed by Singh on 22 September to deepen defence cooperation with Morocco, including joint training, cyber defence, military health, and industrial collaboration. In September 2024, Tata Advanced Systems Limited signed the agreement with Morocco’s National Defence Administration for the local production of the WhAP. The agreement covers a three-year period, during which Tata Advanced Systems Maroc will manufacture up to 100 vehicles annually. The contract was signed for the construction of 150 vehicles for Morocco’s armed forces, according to defence sources quoted by news agency ANI. The WhAP is a versatile, amphibious vehicle designed to navigate challenging terrains, including muddy or slushy conditions, and withstand mine blasts. Various models, including paramilitary versions, are already in service with the Indian Army. Morocco is aiming to reduce its reliance on foreign suppliers, particularly the United States, while positioning itself as a key regional player in defence manufacturing. India, meanwhile, has been expanding its defence engagement with Africa, recognizing the continent’s strategic importance. The India-Africa Defence Dialogue and joint military exercises with African nations have positioned India as a growing defence partner in the region. Morocco’s role in this partnership could help India solidify its strategic foothold in North Africa, with opportunities for increased defence exports or joint ventures. Previously called the Kestrel, the WhAP was developed with the Indian Ministry of Defence’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) for the Indian Army, which calls it the Infantry Protected Mobility Vehicle (IPMV). It is also in service with the paramilitary Central Reserve Police Force. (Source: https://www.defenceweb.co.za/)
29 Sep 25. South Korean Tigon 6×6 seen in Saudi parade. A South Korean-made Tigon 6×6 armoured vehicle was seen publicly in Saudi Arabia for the first time during the kingdom’s National Day celebrations on 23 September. A social media photograph taken at one of the parades marking the National Day showed a Tigon with a raised passenger compartment and the logo of the Royal Saudi Land Forces (RSLF). A video subsequently released by the Saudi Ministry of Defense showed the Tigon was followed by a Chunmoo multiple rocket launcher and its associated ammunition resupply vehicle, indicating the 6×6 is an artillery command vehicle. First seen in Saudi Arabia in March 2023, the Chunmoo is also made by Hanwha Aerospace. This makes the RSLF the only known operator of the Tigon, which was unveiled in 2018 as a collaboration with Malaysia’s AVP Engineering. The Tarantula vehicle on which it is based is used as a fire-support vehicle by the Indonesian Land Force. Neither Hanwha nor the South Korea government has reported any Chunmoo or Tigon sales to Saudi Arabia, although the latter told the UN Register of Conventional Arms that it exported 50 Raybolt anti-tank guided missiles and 77 unidentified manportable air-defence systems to the kingdom in 2023. (Source: Janes)
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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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