Denel Land Systems and Patria have signed an agreement regarding Patria AMV 8×8 armoured wheeled vehicle serial production and delivery to South Africa. The agreement includes 238 vehicles, out of which 5 pre-series vehicles have already been delivered during the development phase. The first 16 serial vehicles will be assembled by Patria in Finland, Hämeenlinna. Thereafter the assembly will be migrated to South Africa to Denel Land Systems.
These vehicles are specially designed and customized to meet the unique requirements of operational deployment in the demanding African environment. The vehicle, known as Badger in South Africa, is a best-of-breed in its class and will contribute to the modernization of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), providing its troops with effective protection and mobility.
“This agreement is a continuation of the good co-operation of the last several years. We have in Patria unique technology, know-how and a proven track record. We simply provide a vehicle with very high standards and we believe that Denel is the best partner to customize the vehicle to meet the unique needs of the South African National Defence Force”, says Seppo Seppälä, President, Patria Land Systems and Patria Land Services.
Denel Land Systems is a leading defence contractor in its domestic market and a key supplier to SANDF acting as an original equipment manufacturer (OEM). Denel Land Systems also provide overhaul, maintenance, repair, refurbishment, and upgrade services for the SANDF’s equipment arsenal.
Patria has decades of experience in armoured wheeled vehicles and its products are under continuous development and fitted with the latest technology. Patria AMV has been the unrivalled market leader of modern 8×8 armoured wheeled vehicles for the last decade with nearly 1400 units contracted, selected by seven different nations and combat proven in real mission environment.
Denel Land Systems is a Division of Denel SOC Ltd, the largest manufacturer of defence equipment in South Africa operating in the military aerospace and landward defence environment. Denel’s sole shareholder is the South African Government.
Patria is a trusted provider of defence, security and aviation life-cycle support services and technology solutions. Patria is owned by the state of Finland (73.2%) and the European Aeronautic Defence and Space Company (EADS).