MOD signs contract for new Army patrol vehicles
5 Sep 07
The Ministry of Defence has signed a £30m contract with Plymouth-based company DML for a number of weapons-mounted patrol vehicles which will be used by troops in Afghanistan.
New Army patrol vehicle MWMIK is the latest addition to the Army's WMIK fleet
[Picture: Andrew Linnett]
The MWMIK (Mobility Weapons Mounted Installation Kit) vehicles will be a considerable asset to troops on operations. With a top speed of 80 mph, they will offer increased mobility and protection.
The vehicles can be fitted with a range of firepower, including a .50 calibre machine gun or an automatic grenade launcher and a general purpose machine gun.
The MWMIK can carry up to three soldiers with their individual weapons, and can operate on a variety of terrains, including off road.
Lord Drayson, Minister of State for Defence Equipment and Support, said:
"These vehicles are well armed, swift, and agile. They will boost our capability with some serious firepower. MOD and the Treasury have worked hard to get these powerful vehicles to our troops in quick time, and they will start going out to theatre early next year."
The MWMIK will be produced at DML's Devonport dockyard facility, based on a design from Supacat Ltd. Universal Engineering Ltd will manufacture the chassis, Cummins the engine, and Allison the transmission.
DML has also recently been awarded a separate contract for a number of MEP (Military Enhancement Programme) vehicles. These are 6x6 load carrying all-terrain vehicles based on the same technology as MWMIK.