Sponsored by TEK Military Seating Limited
http://www.tekmilitaryseating.co.uk/
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19 Jan 26. Oshkosh Defense, LLC, an Oshkosh Corporation [NYSE: OSK] business, will showcase its Joint Light Tactical Vehicle (JLTV) platform at the International Armoured Vehicles (IAV) Conference, January 20-22, 2026, in Booth D8. The company will highlight how the combat-proven JLTV adapts to evolving operational demands and modernization requirements across allied forces. With over 24,000 vehicles produced for the U.S. Armed Forces and coalition partners worldwide, the Oshkosh JLTV is the only fully fielded, combat-tested light tactical vehicle available to international customers. As the only original equipment manufacturer (OEM) authorized to supply JLTVs directly to allied nations through Direct Commercial Sales (DCS), Oshkosh delivers proven protection, mobility, and reliability without development risk—underpinned by a commitment to collaborative partnerships for modernization initiatives.
“The Oshkosh JLTV platform delivers the adaptability and interoperability our allies need to modernize effectively,” said Pat Williams, Chief Programs Officer at Oshkosh Defense. “Its open architecture and proven interfaces significantly reduce integration burden and enable rapid fielding of mission systems, weapons, sensors, and protection solutions—all on accelerated timelines with lower risk.”
Current allied operators include the United States, The Netherlands, Montenegro, Slovenia, Slovakia, Belgium, Lithuania, North Macedonia, Israel, Brazil, Mongolia, and Romania. By fielding the proven platform, these nations benefit from enhanced interoperability during combined exercises and joint operations. As a global leader in military vehicle design and production, Oshkosh Defense remains committed to supporting allied modernization and delivering the most capable, proven light tactical vehicle available today.
About Oshkosh Defense
Oshkosh Defense is a global leader in the design, production and sustainment of best-in-class military vehicles, technology solutions and mobility systems. Oshkosh develops and applies emerging technologies that advance safety and mission success. Setting the industry standard for sustaining fleet readiness, Oshkosh ensures every solution is supported worldwide throughout its entire life cycle. Oshkosh Defense, LLC is an Oshkosh Corporation business [NYSE: OSK]. Learn more about Oshkosh Defense at https://oshkoshdefense.com/.
15 Jan 26. M1E3 Abrams main battle tank makes public debut with Javelin, RWS. A new prototype of the M1E3 Abrams main battle tank has made its public debut at the Detroit Auto Show in Michigan, USA. The US Army display, manufactured by Roush Defence, was shown to media and public earlier this week as the next generation of armoured warfare for the US military and potentially other allied armies, such as the Australian Army. The new main battle tank will reportedly focus on digital systems and interchangeability in capability to move with the rapid pace of evolving technology. The system will allegedly be powered by a commercial diesel engine, a crew of three and, potentially, use an autoloader for its 120mm smoothbore main gun. It’s speculated that the M1E3 display also featured an R400 remote weapon station with a top-mounted Javelin anti-armour missile.
The tank is now public. Comments and observations to follow. pic.twitter.com/lSns8CP17b
— The Chieftain (@Chieftain_armor) January 14, 2026
Earlier this month, EOS Defense Systems USA announced it had secured a contract to deliver remote weapon systems to prime contractor General Dynamics Land Systems for integration onto a US Army ground combat vehicle.
“The initial award is for approximately US$22 million and is expected to result in a signed contract before the end of the year. Work will occur over the next two to three years, with future production efforts expected to extend past 2030,” EOS said.
“EOS will deliver an enhanced RWS, designed specifically to meet the Army’s operational requirements. Manufacturing will take place at EOS’ facility in Huntsville, Alabama, further establishing the company’s presence in the US defence market.”
US media organisations have reported that the US Army plans to build four early M1E3 prototypes and full production is planned with General Dynamics Land Systems.
The previously announced M1E3 Abrams Main Battle Tank modernisation program is envisioned to “fight and win against future threats on the battlefield of 2040 and beyond”.
“We appreciate that future battlefields pose new challenges to the tank as we study recent and ongoing conflicts,” according to comments made by Brigadier General Geoffrey Norman, director of the Next-Generation Combat Vehicle Cross Functional Team.
“We must optimise the Abrams’ mobility and survivability to allow the tank to continue to close with and destroy the enemy as the apex predator on future battlefields.”
The US Army will continue to produce the M1A2 SEPv3 at a reduced rate until production transitions to the M1E3 Abrams, and the Army will carry technologies forward into the SEPv4 Abrams modernisation effort.
“The Abrams Tank can no longer grow its capabilities without adding weight, and we need to reduce its logistical footprint,” said Major General Glenn Dean, program executive officer for Ground Combat Systems.
“The war in Ukraine has highlighted a critical need for integrated protections for soldiers, built from within instead of adding on.”
Initial operational capability for the M1E3 is anticipated in early the 2030s. (Source: Defence Connect)
15 Jan 26. Arquus, a John Cockerill company, and Daimler Truck have been awarded the PL6T contract by the French Ministry of the Armed Forces. It covers the qualification and delivery of 7,000 new-generation military trucks for the French Land Forces. The term “PL6T” (Porteurs Logistiques 6 Tonnes) refers to the vehicle class designed for a payload of six tonnes. This major program aims to renew the logistics and operational capabilities of the French forces, in a context of accelerated modernization and rising requirements linked to high-intensity operations. The vehicles will be produced and delivered for more than 10 years.
Thierry Renaudin, CEO of John Cockerill Defense and President of Arquus: “We are proud to receive the renewed trust of the Ministry of the Armed Forces, especially as the PL6T program is of major importance to the French Armed Forces. This industrial alliance with Daimler Truck enables us to fully meet the requirements of this program. We are delighted to be providing the armed forces with a new vehicle that meets the highest global standards and is designed for the most demanding environments.”
Emmanuel Levacher, CEO of Arquus: “Together with Daimler Truck, we are providing the French Army with a robust, modern, and sustainable solution that meets the long-term operational needs of the forces. This large-scale renewal is a critical lever in supporting the transformation program ‘Toward a Combat-Ready Army’.”
Daniel Zittel, Head of Defence Sales at Daimler Truck: “This program is far more than a contract; it is a strong example of what European cooperation can achieve. Together with Arquus, we demonstrate that French and German industry can work hand in hand to deliver modern, reliable solutions for those who protect our security. This partnership is built on trust and shared commitment, setting a clear benchmark for future collaboration in the defence sector. This reflects Daimler Truck’s Defence Strategy: creating future-proof solutions through strong partnerships and uncompromising reliability, while accelerating our growth in the European defence industry.”
Ulrich Loebich, CEO of Daimler Truck France: “With this contract, Daimler Truck is expanding its already strong presence in France — currently around 5,500 direct and indirect employees — through an important industrial partnership in the defence sector. We are ready to support the fulfilment of this demanding contract alongside a strong French partner with our local organisation in France. Our sites in Wörth am Rhein, Germany, and Molsheim, France, ensure fast and reliable series production as well as short distances to Arquus’ sites and to the customer.”
Technology Package Meeting the Requirements of the French Army
The selected vehicle type, the new “Zetros by Arquus”, was showcased by the two companies for the first time in October 2025 at the Forum Entreprises Défense in Versailles Satory. It combines Daimler Truck’s proven vehicle platform, the Mercedes-Benz Zetros, with integration, militarization and in-service support provided by Arquus. The “Zetros by Arquus” will provide the French Army with enhanced mobility and safety, including reliable performance in all-terrain environments. The “Zetros by Arquus” is a versatile tactical truck designed for military operations. The Zetros chassis produced by Daimler Truck was developed for both on- and off-road use and is characterized by robustness, durability and ease of maintenance. All ordered vehicles are based on the same chassis with three-axle configuration, enabling rapid user familiarization as well as simplified operation and maintenance. All vehicles feature the engine Mercedes-Benz OM 460 with Euro 3 certification, proven for full operational readiness also on low-quality fuels, and a fully automatic transmission with torque converter.
The vehicles are conventional trucks with the cab sitting behind the front axle, consistent with the vehicle concept used by the French Land Forces for decades. The “Zetros by Arquus” offers several advantages regarding tactical and strategical mobility. The low vehicle height improves operational capability, e.g. in forests, tunnels and residential areas and facilitates the transport by air and rail. The vehicle concept also suits well for mounting a protected cab, because its high weight is positioned slightly behind the single front axle and therefore better distributed between front axle and rear axles. That allows maintaining a high payload capacity of six tonnes (PL6T). A wide range of vehicle variants will be delivered, including troop carriers, transport vehicles, shelter vehicles, crane-equipped variants, and trucks with winches. All configurations feature extensive customization options tailored to logistical and mission specific requirements. Comprehensive lifecycle support and maintenance for the entire fleet will be carried out by Arquus, based on the company’s operational experience. Daimler Truck supports Arquus by delivering spare parts and providing know-how regarding the basis vehicle platform.
Industrial commitment in France
The basic vehicles are manufactured at Daimler Truck production sites in Wörth am Rhein, Germany, and Molsheim, France. Besides the existing Arquus network, Daimler Truck France also has a comprehensive network of more than 150 sales and service locations across France, ensuring long-term support for the delivered vehicles whenever needed. With locations around the globe, Daimler Truck can also reliably support outside of Europe. Militarisation, systems integration, protected cabs, customer acceptance as well as support and maintenance will be carried out at Arquus’ French facilities in Limoges, Garchizy and Saint-Nazaire, directly contributing to employment and the preservation of national industrial know-how. At Arquus in France, 2,000 employees are committed every day.
15 Jan 26. International Armoured Vehicles Conference 2026 Returns to Farnborough. The 2026 International Armoured Vehicles Conference is coming to Farnborough, uniting global military and industry leaders to explore modernisation, capability, and armoured warfare trends. The 2026 International Armoured Vehicles (IAV) Conference is just around the corner, taking place from 20–22 January 2026 at the Farnborough International Exhibition Centre. The event will once again bring together the UK and global armoured vehicle community, uniting senior military leaders, acquisition authorities, and industry decision-makers at the UK’s most important annual meeting for armoured warfare. With more than 500 British Army and Ministry of Defence personnel already registered, IAV 2026 is firmly established as the primary UK forum for armoured vehicle capability development, procurement and sustainment. The event is officially supported by the British Army and the National Armaments Group, both Three Star Partners of the conference, underlining its strategic importance to UK defence and international collaboration. As land forces adapt to increasingly complex and contested operational environments, IAV 2026 will provide a unique platform to examine how armoured formations are evolving through platform upgrades, advanced protection systems, digitalisation, C4ISR integration and next-generation mobility and power solutions.
15 Jan 26. Why Attend IAV 2026? Discover World-Leading Technology for Military & Defense.
Discover cutting-edge solutions from leading global suppliers
SUPPLIER SPOTLIGHT
Why Attend IAV 2026?
- Unmissable Speaker Lineup: Hear from senior military leaders and industry experts representing more than 40 nations. Hear from senior British Army leaders, MoD officials and allied nations, addressing the future of armoured manoeuvre, force structure, and modernisation priorities.
- Critical Programme & Capability Insight: Gain first-hand updates on vehicle modernisation, protection, lethality, electronic warfare, C4ISR, sustainment and mobility, as the UK and its partners prepare for high-intensity operations.
- Exclusive Networking Opportunities: Join over 1500 qualified, armour-relevant stakeholders, including Chiefs of Army, Platform Program Managers, and leading defence contractors. Build meaningful partnerships that will shape your strategies for 2026 and beyond.
- Industry & Acquisition Engagement: Meet the organisations delivering the next generation of platforms, electronics, survivability systems, powertrain solutions and sustainment technologies supporting armoured forces.
- A Focus on the Realities of Modern Warfare: From multi-domain integration and digitisation to fleet readiness, upgrades and supply chain resilience, IAV 2026 tackles the operational and acquisition challenges shaping land combat.
The UK’s Most Important Armoured Vehicle Event of the Year
As the longest-running and most influential forum of its kind, IAVs 2026 is the ultimate platform for the armoured vehicle community to share insights, collaborate, and set the agenda for the future. Whether you are a military decision-maker, an OEM, or a technology disruptor, this is your opportunity to be at the heart of the conversation. (Source: https://www.defenseadvancement.com/)
15 Jan 26. Insights from the Future Armoured Vehicles Conference 2026. The 12th Annual Future Armoured Vehicles Conference will bring together military leaders and technology providers to shape the future of armoured vehicle programmes across Central and Eastern Europe. The 12th Annual Future Armoured Vehicles: Central and Eastern Europe Conference will act as a strategic platform for collaboration. Across two focused days, military decision-makers, procurement authorities, and leading technology providers will engage in dynamic discussions, case studies, and solution-driven sessions. From regional capability development to cross-border interoperability, the event delivers actionable insights that shape armoured vehicle programmes for the decade ahead. As defence modernisation accelerates across Central and Eastern Europe, the regional armoured vehicle market is projected to grow to at least £7.51bn by 2030. This surge reflects urgent priorities for enhanced mobility, protection, and interoperability as NATO’s eastern flank strengthens in response to evolving security threats. The seniority and diversity of the speaker line-up, including Three Major Generals and Four Brigadier Generals, representing multiple nations and commands, is considered truly exceptional for this year. Their presence ensures unparalleled insights into strategic priorities, operational challenges, and future armoured vehicle programmes.
SUPPLIER SPOTLIGHT
The latest brochure highlights key updates for the conference:
- The only armoured platform-specific event in the region.
- A focused agenda addressing challenges such as modernising legacy assets, enhancing the Iron Triangle, training protocols, interoperability and data sharing, integration, international cooperation, and enhanced procurement processes.
- Presentations from senior leaders from nations including Czechia, Austria, Portugal, Sweden, Switzerland, and NATO generals.
- The unique forum brings together international and industry partners to drive innovation and cooperation. Attendees will have the opportunity to network with leaders who can help address national security challenges and gain insights into the latest technological and doctrinal updates.
- Actionable insights on how the Ukraine conflict has impacted armoured warfare and how future strategies will evolve based on lessons learned.
What’s new for Future Armoured Vehicles: Central and Eastern Europe 2026?
- Enhancing NATO Interoperability and Training Protocols – Major General Constantin Nicolaescu, Chief of Staff HQ, Multinational Brigade South-East-Sibiu, NATO
An examination of MND-SE’s role in improving NATO armoured platform interoperability, advancing collective defence, and refining training protocols to boost warfighter readiness, while addressing challenges of integrating diverse multinational platforms.
- Navigating How Sweden is Upgrading its Armoured Fleets to Operate in Subarctic Conditions – Major General Jonny Lindfors, Commander, Swedish Army
Insights into Sweden’s modernisation efforts post-NATO accession, balancing mobility and lethality in harsh terrain, and future procurement plans for Stridvagn 123 MBTs.
- The Military 2032+ Plan: Mapping the Technological Challenges of Upgrading Current and Future Armoured Vehicle Fleets – Brigadier General Michael Janisch, Director, Armaments and Defence Technology Agency, Austrian Armed Forces
Exploration of Austria’s Military 2032+ technical aims, challenges in modernising armoured fleets, and expected future developments to enhance capability.
- Enhancing Mobility, Lethality and Situational Awareness: Modernising Portugal’s Armoured Vehicles – Brigadier General Antonio Jose Fernandes de Oliveira, Commander, Mechanised Brigade, Portuguese Army
Overview of Portugal’s modernisation programme, anticipated capability improvements, and future directions to counter emerging threats.
- Updates on Current Swiss Armament Projects: New Platforms to Develop Swiss Heavy Forces – Brigadier General Yves Gaechter, Commandant Armour and Artillery Training Unit, Swiss Armed Forces
Discussion on Swiss armoured capabilities, introduction of new platforms (artillery, APCs, reconnaissance vehicles), and plans for enhanced integration.
- Lessons Learned in the Ukraine-Russia War: New Approaches to Using Armoured Vehicles – Colonel Yevhen Shamataliuk, Deputy Commander, LITPOLUKR Brigade
Analysis of current armoured vehicle strategies in Ukraine, Russia’s battlefield use of AVs, and Ukraine’s evolving tactics to maintain operational advantage, including future developments to counter UAV threats.
Looking to Connect With the Future Armoured Vehicles Community Shaping Central and Eastern Europe?
Attendees can connect with a global audience of military and industry leaders. Previous attendees have included:
Previous Military Attendees: Albanian Armed Forces, Armed Forces of Ukraine, Austrian Armed Forces, British Army, Bundeswehr Technical Centre for Weapons and Ammunition, Consulate of Oman, Czech Armed Forces, Dept of Defence Australia, Estonian Centre for Defence Investments, FDF, FOI, Finabel – The European Land Force Commanders Organisation, Hungarian Ministry of Defence, Irish Defence Force, Israeli MoD, Italian Army, Lithuanian Land Force Command, NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA), OCCAR-EA, Polish Armed Forces, Slovakian Ministry of Defence, Slovenian Armed Forces, Spanish Army, UK Defence and Security Exports
Previous Industry Attendees: Aselsan, BAE Systems Hägglunds AB, Bold Valuable Technology Spain SL, CES Advanced Armour, EuroTrophy GmbH, General Dynamics, Hanwha Aerospace Europe, Hyundai Rotem, Konsberg Defence and Aerospace, Leonardo DRS Land Electronics, Microflown AVISA, Milrem Robotics, Moog Defence, NAMMO R&D dept, Nurol Makina, Otokar, Patria Group, RENK Test System GmbH, Rafael Advanced Defense Systems Ltd, Rheinmetall Landsysteme GmbH (RLS), Roketsan AS, SSB, ST Engineering, Soucy International Inc, Thales UK, UkrSmartTech
Showcase Your Brand
Whether through exhibition booths, branded networking, or thought-leadership sessions, sponsorship guarantees visibility among senior stakeholders driving future armoured vehicle programmes across Central and Eastern Europe. Register your interest in sponsorship today >>
Secure Your Place
Those who prefer to join as a delegate can take advantage of an early bird discount. A saving of £400 is available for bookings made by 6 February 2026. International Active Military & Government Personnel can attend for just £598. Reserve a ticket now and don’t miss out >>
The Future Armoured Vehicles Conference Team looks forward to welcoming attendees to Prague in May 2026.
Contact the FAVCEE Team
- Conference Producer: William Fry, Conference Producer,
- Sponsorship Enquiries: Emma Fountain, Sponsorship Sales Manager,
- Delegate Bookings: Adam Smith, Business Development Executive,
- Marketing & Media Enquiries: Elliott Karmel, Marketing Lead, (Source: https://www.defenseadvancement.com/)
14 Jan 26. Birdon secures $125m Army contract to design, build amphibious vehicles logistics. Australian-owned maritime engineering company Birdon has signed a $125 m contract to design and build one prototype and 15 amphibious vehicles – logistics for the Australian Army. The fleet of amphibious vehicles will replace the Australian Army’s ageing Lighter Amphibious Resupply Cargo vehicle, under the LAND 8710 Littoral Manoeuvre Program. The new vehicles are expected to significantly enhance the Australian Defence Force’s amphibious capabilities with improved speed, safety, reliability and performance.
Birdon chief executive Jamie Bruce said the AV-L contract strengthens Australia’s sovereign defence capability and showcases Birdon’s leadership in innovative maritime and automotive engineering excellence.
“The project reflects Birdon’s commitment to delivering Defence-ready solutions tailored to Australia’s unique operating environments. It builds on our proven expertise in integrated design, engineering, logistics, and construction,” Bruce said.
The AV-L design integrates cutting-edge technologies to deliver superior performance across both land and sea. It is engineered to operate as a deep-sea vessel capable of reliable surf zone transitions, while also meeting Australian road safety regulations for on-land mobility. Designed to withstand Australia’s harsh environmental conditions, the AV-L can sustain immersion in corrosive saltwater, far exceeding the limitation of most amphibious vehicles. It is built to perform in extreme humidity, high temperatures, rough surf zones and different beach landing zones, ensuring operational readiness in diverse terrains and climates. The vehicle’s advanced propulsion and steering systems combine water jet and dynamic drive train technologies, enabling seamless transitions between marsh, clay and surf environments. Enhanced in-water manoeuvrability, improved speed and responsive reversing performance allow for agile operations, including rapid rescues in emergency scenarios. Operator safety is central to the AV-L’s design. It features a system that automatically detects and adjusts for wheel bogging and slipping, providing the traction needed to exit dangerous wave zones quickly. Shock-absorbing seating and comfort features reduce operator fatigue, while front and rear steering, automatic tyre inflation and self-levelling suspension with ride height control further enhance safety during high-risk missions. The AV-L includes a modular payload system with a deck crane, advanced fire safety measures and a reverse flush system to clear debris from the jet intake. These features ensure the vehicle is not only mission-ready but also adaptable to a wide range of defence and humanitarian applications. All AV-L vehicles will be constructed at Birdon’s shipbuilding yard in Port Macquarie on the NSW Mid North Coast. Coupled with Birdon’s ongoing investment in growing Australia’s maritime engineering and defence industries, the AV-L project will support local job creation and skills development in regional Australia. (Source: Defence Connect)
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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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