BAE Systems Expands European Defense Ties with Tatra for BvS10 Armoured Vehicle Production.

BAE Systems, a leading European defense industry player, has enhanced its cooperation with Tatra Defence Vehicle (TDV), a member of the Czechoslovak Group (CSG) Holding, by signing a significant contract for the production of the BvS10 all-terrain armored vehicles. Valued at up to €42 million (approximately 1 billion Czech Koruna), the contract encompasses a range of production processes including welding, painting, and installation of hull insulation.
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The BvS10 family of vehicles, developed by BAE Systems, offers a proven all-terrain solution capable of navigating landscapes that would hinder most other vehicles (Picture source: Bae Systems)

Under the recently concluded agreement, TDV will produce 250 new BvS10 vehicles, with an option to extend the order by an additional 274 units. These vehicles, integral to the three-nation Collaborative All-Terrain Vehicle (CATV-3N) program, are designed to operate in extreme climatic conditions and challenging terrains, targeting the needs of Sweden, Germany, and the United Kingdom. The program is set to commence prototype production this summer, with the start of mass production planned for late 2025.

Tommy Gustafsson-Rask, president of BAE Systems Hägglunds, highlighted the strategic benefits of this partnership, noting the integration of TDV’s advanced production technologies and strengthening the role of the Czech defense industry within BAE Systems’ global supply chain. Tomáš Mohapl, CEO of Tatra Defence Vehicle, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the contract's significance in showcasing the consortium’s capabilities on an international stage and fostering the strategic relationship with BAE Systems Hägglunds.

The partnership between BAE Systems Hägglunds and the Czech defense industry builds on existing collaborations, such as the involvement of Czech companies in supplying CV90 MkIV vehicles for the Czech army. BAE Systems anticipates this will lead to new business opportunities in the European defense sector.

The BvS10 family of vehicles, developed by BAE Systems, offers a proven all-terrain solution capable of navigating landscapes that would hinder most other vehicles. This series includes both armored and unarmored variants, each providing remarkable operational flexibility by combining mobility, payload capacity, and protection for various missions. With nearly fifty years of unparalleled experience in Arctic mobility, building 12,000 all-terrain vehicles and logging millions of miles in Arctic conditions, BAE Systems has crafted the BvS10 family specifically to deliver comprehensive operational support in environments inaccessible to other vehicles.

Vehicles within the BvS10 family, including the armored BvS10 and the unarmored BvS10 Beowulf, are amphibious and support a variety of military and civilian missions. Designed in close cooperation with customers to meet their specific needs, BvS10 vehicles are equipped to integrate a broad range of armaments while maintaining the flexibility to adapt to future requirements. The armored variants include ambulances, weapon supports, armored personnel carriers, remote weapon stations, and more, all designed to offer protection from ballistic attacks and anti-tank mines. Additionally, these vehicles are air-transportable by aircraft such as the CH-47 and C-130. The BvS10 is currently in service in several countries, including Austria, France, the Netherlands, Sweden, and the United Kingdom.

The unarmored Beowulf variant adds additional mission flexibility to the BvS10 family. This amphibious vehicle leverages combat-proven technology underpinning the BvS10 fleets in service worldwide. Like its armored counterpart, the Beowulf is designed in close coordination with customers to ensure their mission requirements are met. It is also air transportable by CH-47 and C-130 aircraft. Ideal for non-military applications such as humanitarian aid, disaster relief, firefighting, and rescue operations, the Beowulf demonstrates inherent flexibility to adapt to a wide range of operational scenarios.

In addition to bolstering military capabilities, BAE Systems plays a crucial role in the economic landscape of Europe. The company is a significant employer and buyer, substantially contributing to the continent's economic and technological growth. Last year alone, BAE Systems spent €1.7 billion with more than 2,200 companies in its continental European supply chain, supporting an estimated further 11,000 indirect jobs. Altogether, the company supports nearly 94,000 jobs across the United Kingdom and continental Europe, underscoring its pivotal role in both defense and economic sectors.