New Belgian Army DAF CF military trucks parade on Belgium’s National Day.

Among the new items demonstrated by the Belgian Army for Belgium’s National Day (21 July), the different variants of 4x4 and 8x8 DAF CF military trucks, both with and without armored cab, drew the attention of connoisseurs.
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In 2021, following an extensive evaluation process typical for a significant tender, the Belgian Defense awarded a contract to DAF for the supply of 879 4x4 and 8x8 vehicles between 2022 and 2025 (Picture source: Army Recognition)

In 2021, following an extensive evaluation process typical for a significant tender, the Belgian Defense awarded a contract to DAF for the supply of 879 4x4 and 8x8 vehicles between 2022 and 2025. The order from the Belgian Defense includes 636 4×4 trucks for general transport duties and 243 8x8 trucks for specific applications such as tipper (dumper), container transport, and crane operations. The total budget allocated for this contract amounts to 259 million euros. Notably, 40 percent of the vehicles will be equipped with an armored cab to provide a high level of protection for occupants during military operations.

On December 23, 2021, DAF announced that the Belgian Defence had placed an additional order for 9 heavy tractor/trailer combinations, intended for the safe and efficient recovery of vehicles in operational zones and conflict areas. The delivery of these vehicles is scheduled for 2024. The Belgian army's order comprises complete combinations consisting of four-axle and all-wheel-drive CF Military tractors, along with three-axle extendable flatbed semi-trailers provided by Broshuis. The tractors are equipped with an armored cab.

DAF has established a close collaboration with Tatra Trucks, a renowned company based in the Czech Republic. This collaboration has resulted in a unique chassis concept featuring a world-class driveline, central backbone tube, and independent suspension of half-axles. These features grant the CF Military exceptional off-road capabilities and outstanding driver comfort, even in the most challenging terrains. The recovery vehicles ordered by the Belgian Defence are powered by the 12.9-liter PACCAR MX-13 engine, delivering an output of 340kW/460 hp. The PACCAR engines used in the vehicles are sourced from the DAF factory in Eindhoven.

The armored cabins for the vehicles are supplied by Tatra Defence Vehicles, utilizing components from the DAF CF series cabs manufactured in Belgium. The production of the unarmored cabs for the CF military trucks is conducted entirely at the DAF plant in Westerlo. Tatra Defense Vehicles is supplying the protected cabins, with their interiors also manufactured in Westerlo. 

All trucks utilize a unique chassis concept with a four-wheel-drive powertrain and a load-bearing center tube equipped with independent suspension. The independent suspension, special Tatra chassis, and central tire inflation system guarantee exceptional off-road capabilities and driving comfort, even on the most challenging terrains. The trucks are equipped with either a 10.8-liter PACCAR MX-11 engine (for the 4×4 variant) or a 12.9-liter PACCAR MX-13 engine (for the 8×8 variant), offering outputs ranging from 300 kW/410 hp to 340 kW/460 hp. Another major advantage is their reduced height, which remains under 4 meters even when carrying a 20ft sea container.

Regarding maintenance, the Belgian Defence and DAF will collaborate closely to ensure the upkeep of the CF military vehicles. The network of DAF dealers in Belgium, with designated support points in Houthalen and Grâce-Hollogne, will play a crucial role. For maintenance needs outside of Belgium, the extensive DAF dealer network, with more than 1,100 locations worldwide, will be available, supported by the DAF International Truck Service (ITS) emergency service. PACCAR Parts will ensure excellent parts availability to support the DAF dealer organization.

Ludivine Dedonder, Minister of Defence, expressed her satisfaction, stating, "Well-developed logistics and transport capacity are essential for the success of military operations. With the arrival of these new transport vehicles, the Defense is taking another big step forward. These new vehicles are suitable for all areas of operations and are also literally a matter of life and death for our soldiers who risk their lives every day in the interest of our security. No less than 40% of the delivered vehicles are armored and provide vital protection to our personnel during operations. If necessary, additional vehicles can also be equipped with such protection to ensure the safety of our personnel. The fact that a significant part of the production takes place in Belgium is particularly pleasing. By collaborating with Belgian companies to enhance our strategic autonomy and military security, we not only strengthen Defense but the country as a whole."

Harald Seidel, Managing Director of DAF Trucks, emphasized the importance of equipment reliability, stating, "In the toughest and most demanding conditions, an army wants to be able to rely on its equipment. We are, therefore, proud that the Belgian army has chosen the unrivaled reliability and qualities of our Military CF trucks. The versatility of our vehicles demonstrates that DAF also provides an excellent transport solution for all military applications. The safety of our personnel and the reliability of our equipment are crucial," emphasized Lieutenant-General Frédéric Goetynck, Director General of the General Directorate of Material Resources (DGMR).

According to an article published by Army Recognition on December 7, 2021, the tender for replacing the Mercedes Unimog 1300L 4x4 1.9T and Volvo N10 6x4 trucks was issued in accordance with the Strategic Vision for Defense issued by the Belgian army on June 29, 2016. DAF Trucks emerged as the winner of the tender. HIAB was selected as the supplier for all hook-lift systems and load-handling cranes, while VS-Mont was chosen for the supply of tipper bodies. Porgest was assigned the task of producing cargo bodies. The delivery of the initial vehicles took place as planned on December 1, 2022, with the final vehicles expected to be manufactured in 2025.

Defense News July 2023