Denel awarded South African Badger ICV contract

Denel has won a contract to manufacture over 200 Badger infantry combat vehicles (ICV) for the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) over the next ten years.

The 8x8 Badger ICV is being procured to replace the SANDF’s existing fleet of armour protected combat vehicles, including the Ratel. The vehicle will bring the force improved firepower, mobility and armoured protection capabilities, and contribute to the modernisation of the SANDF.

Denel has welcomed the contract announcement, and emphasised the benefits to the South African defence manufacturing industry that will come from the production contract.

Riaz Saloojee, chief executive, Denel Group, said: ‘This is the most significant defence contract signed with a South African company in at least the last 10 years, and demonstrates government and the SANDF’s confidence in the ability of the local industry to provide frontline equipment.’

Sam Gulube, Secretary for Defence, added: ‘The production order for the Badger vehicle represents a significant chapter in the history of the SANDF in that it provides a much needed capability for troops involved in critical peace keeping operations in other African countries.’ 

The vehicle platform was originally developed by Finnish defence contractor, Patria, and has subsequently been fully optimised by Denel Land Systems in order to meet the specific needs of the South African Army.

The company displayed a GI-30 30mm CamGun electro-mechanical cannon internationally for the first time at the DSEI in September. The system has been designed and manufactured for the Badger ICV.