The deadline for final bid submissions for Land 400 Phase 2 (Mounted Combat Reconnaissance Capability) has passed and two of the teams vying for the contract to equip the Army with light armoured vehicles have been showcasing their entries.
BAE Systems is teaming up with Patria to offer the AMV35 Combat Reconnaissance Vehicle (CRV). This solution combines Patria’s Armoured Modular Vehicle (AMV) and BAE Systems Hägglunds’ E35 turret system. Both are qualified and in service with NATO nations.
The BAE Systems-Hägglunds manned turret system is fitted to the CV90 family of infantry fighting vehicles operated by seven nations. It has been used on UN and NATO missions across the globe, including Afghanistan.
“The AMV35 is an outstanding combat reconnaissance platform that integrates BAE Systems-Hägglunds’ E35 turret onto a modern, agile, highly protected Patria Armoured Modular Vehicle (AMV), both of which have attained a fearsome reputation based on their operational performance in Afghanistan," BAE Systems Australia Chief Executive Glynn Phillips said.
"It represents a low risk and affordable step change in protection, mobility and firepower for the Australian Army in any future operations."
BAE Systems and Patria are offering the AMV35 CRV. Credit: BAE Systems.
Another contender is the Rheinmetall and Northrop Grumman partnership offering the latest version of the Boxer8x8, the LANCE turret and Northrop Grumman's C4ISR architecture.
“Rheinmetall’s combat proven BOXER 8x8 CRV delivers the highest levels of protection required under LAND 400 and is a formidable MOTS platform when combined with the in-service LANCE Turret,” managing Director of Rheinmetall Defence Australia Andrew Fletcher said.
The Boxer Cavalry Reconnaissance vehicle, according to Rheinmetall, will provide the Australian Army with a combat proven, low risk capability that can be rapidly transitioned into service and easily supported through life.
Both teams have said that there will be opportunities for involvement and content for Australian suppliers.
The two other prime partnership teams are Elbit Systems Australia with ST Kinetics and Thales Australia with General Dynamics Land Systems.