Paramount Unveils Latest Version of Its Next-Generation Mbombe 6 Infantry Combat Vehicle.

On June 27, 2024, the South African company, Paramount, announced several updates to its next-generation Infantry Combat Vehicle (ICV), the Mbombe 6. This vehicle is in production to meet the needs of customers as the global armored vehicle market undergoes significant changes. European governments, in particular, are strengthening their ground forces and national production capabilities in response to global tensions heightened by the Russian-Ukrainian conflict.
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The latest 'Mark 3' version of the Mbombe 6 demonstrates Paramount's commitment to continuous innovation and interoperability.  (Picture source: Paramount)

The Mbombe, available in 4x4, 6x6, and 8x8 versions, is designed to meet the changing requirements of modern battlefields. Its advanced construction provides great maneuverability, allows the integration of various weapon systems, and ensures a high level of protection for military personnel. The Mbombe 6 has been supplied to countries in Africa, the Middle East, Latin America, and Asia. It has also been successfully produced in Kazakhstan as part of Paramount’s portable production model with Kazakhstan Paramount Engineering.

The latest 'Mark 3' version of the Mbombe 6 demonstrates Paramount's commitment to continuous innovation and interoperability. This platform features a redesigned electrical system that focuses on improving driver ergonomics, adopting more commercially available components, electromagnetic interference compliance, and a new interior layout that offers increased functionality and better space utilization. Enhancements also include increased engine compartment protection and enhanced recovery capabilities with the addition of a new heavy-duty front bumper equipped with integrated recovery points and an updated electric winch.

Deon Grobler, CEO of Paramount Land Systems, expressed his commitment to continual innovation in the design and manufacturing of armored vehicles. He explained that the company's decades of experience have allowed the development of the Mbombe vehicle family, designed to meet the challenges of modern battlefields. According to him, the latest enhancements to the Mbombe 6 model should further strengthen the reputation of this combat-proven vehicle.

The vehicle is equipped for various military missions such as counter-terrorism, border patrol, and peacekeeping, highlighting its adaptability and versatility (Picture source: Paramount)

The Mbombe 6, developed by Paramount, is a low-profile, highly agile 6x6 infantry combat vehicle designed to carry significant payloads across various terrains. It can be configured as either an armored personnel carrier or an armored fighting vehicle, offering advanced protection with flat-floor technology that provides exceptional mine resistance without the traditional V-shaped design. The vehicle’s design also reduces its silhouette, enhancing its stealth while ensuring protection against ballistic attacks and anti-tank mine explosions in compliance with STANAG 4569 levels.

Following its presentation at DSEI 2023 and facing increasing demand particularly from Latin America and the Southern African Development Community (SADC), production of the Mbombe 6 has been ramped up. Over 20 units are currently in production, meeting the diverse needs of military operations, including in Ukraine. The vehicle is equipped for various military missions such as counter-terrorism, border patrol, and peacekeeping, highlighting its adaptability and versatility.

The Mbombe 6 stands out for its flexible operational capabilities, with seating for a crew of two in the front, a commander or gunner, and eight additional passengers in the rear. Its 6x6 configuration, turbo diesel engine producing 336 kW, and automatic transmission allow it to navigate challenging terrains effectively, reaching speeds of up to 110 km/h and covering up to 1,000 km. Features such as the Central Tyre Inflation System (CTIS) and Battlefield Management Systems further enhance its capabilities, making the Mbombe 6 a robust and versatile solution for contemporary security challenges.