Up to 80 MAMMOTHs in Multiple Configurations
The Bundeswehr has contracted Dutch specialist vehicle manufacturer Defenture to develop and supply up to 80 tactical vehicles in a variety of configurations for use by the Kommando Spezialkräfte (KSK – Special Force Command), the company announced on 5 August.
To fill the requirement for a mobility platform adapted to specific tasks, KSK has selected the Defenture MAMMOTH – a 9t vehicle based on the GRF 5.12 platform, already in use by the Dutch Korps Commandotroepen special forces, among others and featuring a modular structure and all-wheel drive.
The KSK’s Mittleres Aufklärungs- und Gefechtsfahrzeug Spezialkräfte (AGF 2 – medium special forces reconnaissance and combat vehicle) and Mittleres taktisches Unterstützungsfahrzeug Kommando Spezialkräfte (UFK – medium special forces tactical support vehicle) programmes call for the delivery of four prototype vehicles in various configurations. Each platform will be equipped with a range of systems that will include, for example, shot detection systems, radios, long- and short-range EO sensors, weapon mounts and internal communication systems. In close collaboration with industry partners and KSK, Defenture will tailor the four vehicles and integrate all required systems. Thorough end-user tesing will then inform series production for a maximum of 80 vehicles. Defenture will support the Bundeswehr with service, support and training throughout the anticipated service life of the vehicles.
“Developing and building these vehicles for the German Special Forces is a recognition of all the energy Defenture has put into developing the best vehicle for these specialists over the past years,” commented Defenture CEO, Henk van der Scheer.
Defenture has already executed contracts for the Netherlands, Switzerland and Germany, delivering tactical vehicles based on the GRF 5.12 chassis, specifically designed for military applications. The chassis is based on the Defenture Modular Design Principle (DMDP), which allows almost infinite variation in configurations, ranging from 3-10t GVW and enables interoperability and a degree of operational commonality for operating nations.
Defenture’s unique design and process-driven manufacturing provide opportunities for close cooperation with local partners to ensure strong and sustainable partnerships – which contribute to local prosperity and economic growth and also minimise lifecycle costs and lead times.
