BAE Systems wins new Finnish RG32M order

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BAE Systems has won a contract worth more than €6 million (about R58 million at current exchange rates) to supply a further 16 4×4 RG32M mine-hardened patrol vehicles to the Finnish Army. Finland received six similar vehicles in November 2006. The new order is for 15 of the current standard production vehicles, albeit with a suspension upgrade.

The 16th vehicle will be an example of the new Series 3 variant, which BAE Systems says provides for a higher payload, increased power and higher protection levels. The RG32M Series 3 is currently undergoing testing at BAE Systems’ facilities in South Africa and is a result of a Swedish order of 60 such vehicles late last year.

Delivery of Finland’s 15 standard RG32Ms with a combat weight of 7.3 metric tons will take place this year with the Series 3 vehicle to follow in early 2011.
“The RG32M is a battle-proven vehicle in the BAE Systems RG series,” says Land Systems South Africa MD Johan Steyn. “This latest order by Finland is a further endorsement to the integrity of the vehicle’s design and its ability to safeguard the lives of the personnel who operate them in theatre.” Sweden currently operates 200 RG32M, with several deployed in Afghanistan.

The RG32M is an all purpose, mine hardened vehicle with integrated ballistic protection for convoy support, infantry patrol and reconnaissance missions. It features an all-steel, welded armour, monocoque hull that protects the crew against small arms fire, grenades, anti-personnel mines and land mine detonations under any wheel. The engine and other key components are also protected against small arms fire and shrapnel.

The RG32M provides an economical life cycle cost solution that can be operated in various climates and readily fitted with mission specific communication and weapon systems. The vehicle is highly tactical and features a minimal logistics footprint with the ability to be reconfigured to customer required mission equipment. The RG32M is designed with multiple features that enhance survivability and crew safety.