Ratel IFV benefits from upgrade while Badger remains delayed
Ratel 6x6 IFV upgraded by OTT Group, pictured at the AAD event in September 2022. The image clearly shows the applique armour package to the hull and turret, the new sighting system above the 20mm cannon and the new commander's sight. (Christopher F Foss)
The first service life extension upgrade of the Ratel 6x6 IFV contrasts with the continued failure of Denel to deliver the Badger ICV for the South African Army.
OTT Group has completed the first example of the Ratel 6x6 IFV Service Life Extension Programme (SLEP), which the South African company developed as a private venture.
For a higher level of crew survivability and ballistic protection, the IFV has been fitted with an applique passive armour package to the hull and turret.
The original Ratel only had day sights for the commander and gunner but the upgraded IFV features a roof-mounted stabilised day/night sight for the commander.
As a result, the 17t wheeled vehicle has a hunter/killer capability: the target is first detected by the commander and, if confirmed
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Land Warfare
-
![MyDefence delivers counter-drone system to US Army ahead of livefire exercise]()
MyDefence delivers counter-drone system to US Army ahead of livefire exercise
The Soldier-Kit system consists of detector, jammer, tablet and wideband antenna and is being evaluated as part of Project Flytrap 3.0 counter uncrewed aerial system (CUAS) exercise.
-
![Arquus and Milrem push their UGVs fitted with long-range missiles]()
Arquus and Milrem push their UGVs fitted with long-range missiles
Arquus displayed the Drailer uncrewed ground vehicle (UGV) integrating the Akeron LP long-range missile at the Techterre technology demonstrator event ahead of trials in September.
-
![Czech CAESAR howitzer order at risk of cancellation]()
Czech CAESAR howitzer order at risk of cancellation
The Czech Republic ordered 52 CAmion Equipé d’un Système d’ARtillerie (CAESAR) self-propelled howitzers (SPHs) in 2021 and added another 10 a year later. A cancellation of the programme would impact both the army’s capabilities and local industry which is involved in the manufacture.
-
![Sweden turns to Nammo and Rheinmetall as world demand grows for 155mm shells]()
Sweden turns to Nammo and Rheinmetall as world demand grows for 155mm shells
Demand for ammunition continues to increase with manufacturing capability growing to match. Sweden have turned to the two supply lines of Rheinmetall and Nammo as part of a Nordic effort to meet demand. The Polish Government has also announced a US$700 million investment to boost manufacture of munitions.
