Why Middle Eastern markets demand bespoke AFV solutions
The Leclerc MBTs operated by the UAE have a host of enhancements compared to the French Army’s own fleet. This example is fitted with a new panoramic sighting system. (Photo: author)
In this expert analysis, Christopher Foss looks at how armoured vehicle suppliers to the Middle East are increasingly tailoring platforms for the region’s specific operational requirements.
The Middle East’s climatic challenges along with its deep-pocketed customers prepared to spend what is necessary to meet specific operational needs mean that Western and other OEMs targeting this market need more than an off-the-shelf offering to secure contracts.
While there is a clear trend in Middle Eastern countries to design, develop and manufacture their own fleets of armoured fighting vehicles (AFVs), especially wheeled platforms, many armed forces in the region still rely on foreign models to meet their own specific operational requirements.
A fair proportion of these were designed for operations in Europe rather than the Middle East, with its
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Land Warfare
-
![“A staggering rate of change”: how experience combating IEDs is being applied to the C-UAS arena]()
“A staggering rate of change”: how experience combating IEDs is being applied to the C-UAS arena
The scale of the current escalation in drone attacks is fuelling demand for C-UAS technology that must address a rapidly evolving and expanding threat. Against this background, important lessons can be learned from the battle against IEDs, with networked responses and dispersed capabilities essential to deliver enduring protection.
-
![Lockheed Martin plans a major expansion in Canada following the HIMARS acquisition]()
Lockheed Martin plans a major expansion in Canada following the HIMARS acquisition
The HIMARS acquisition could deliver launchers within 18 months while driving new investments in Canadian manufacturing, technology and defence supply chains.
-
![Air defence at scale: Europe’s challenge of cost, integration and sustainability]()
Air defence at scale: Europe’s challenge of cost, integration and sustainability
The evolution of aerial threats is driving renewed investment in ground-based air defence across Europe. Yet beyond capability, a more pressing challenge is emerging: how to sustain air defence at scale, as rising costs, limited stockpiles and industrial production constraints place increasing pressure on existing structures.
