Denel, Patria sign South African Badger agreement

Denel Land Systems and Patria have entered an agreement regarding the 8x8 armoured wheeled vehicles being delivered to the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) under a contract awarded to Denel in October.

Of the 238 vehicles covered by the contract - known as the Badger infantry combat vehicle (ICV) in South Africa and based on the Patria 8x8 Armoured Modular Vehicle - five pre-series vehicles have already been delivered during the development phase.

Under this agreement, the first 16 serial vehicles will be assembled by Patria in Finland, Hämeenlinna; the remaining vehicles will be assembled by Denel Land Systems in South Africa.

Seppo Seppälä , president, Patria Land Systems and Patria Land Services, said: ‘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 customise the vehicle to meet the unique needs of the SANDF.’

The vehicles are being designed and customised to meet the requirements of the SANDF and the demanding African operating environment. The new fleet will provide troops with advanced protection and mobility, and contribute to the SANDF’s ongoing modernisation efforts.