SITDEF 2019: China has donated GQL-111 bridge layer systems to Peruvian army.

Peruvian armed forces have received new bridge layer vehicle from China called GQL-111, this engineer vehicle was displayed for the first time at SITDEF 2019, the VII International Exhibition and Conference of technology for the defense and prevention of disasters.

Chinese GQL-111 truck-mounted bridge layer system at SITDEF 2019, Defense Exhibition in Lima, Peru. May 17, 2019. (Picture source Army Recognition)

In November 2017, China has donated military equipment to Peru including medical and engineer equipment including a few numbers of GQL-111 of truck-mounted bridge layer systems. During a ceremony held in the headquarter of the Peruvian army, Peruvian Defense Minister Jorge Nieto and the Ambassador of the People's Republic of China to Peru, Jia Guide, signed two cooperation protocols in defense.

The GQL-111 is also in service with the Chinese army. The GQL111 is a scissors-type bridge that is transported and launched over the rear of an 8×8 cross-country truck chassis. This is conceptually similar to the Russian TMM-6 heavy bridge building system.

One section can be used to span a gap of up to 15 m, and a complete set of five can span a gap of 75 m. The GQL111 can be used to span wet and dry gaps, with each scissors bridge having an adjustable leg that can be extended to 5.5 m below. It can also be used with pontoons to enable wider rivers to be crossed.

According to the Chinese Defense Industry, the GQL111 bridge can handle tracked AFVs (Armored Fighting Vehicles) up to 50 tones and wheeled vehicles with a maximum axle weight of 13 tones. A later version is also referred to as the 60T Modified Heavy Mechanized Bridge; its capacity increased to 60 tones.