BAE Secures More Than $140 M for 250 MRAP Vehicles

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(Benoni, South Africa, February 23, 2010) -- BAE Systems Land Systems OMC, through its partnership with General Dynamics Land Systems Canada (GDLS-C), was awarded a follow-on order for the supply of 250 RG31 Mk5E vehicles in support of the Mine Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicle programme for U.S. forces.

The new RG31 Mk5E version utilises the same driveline as the RG31 Mk5EM, 100 of which were sold during the previous MRAP contract completed in May 2009. A further enhancement includes an independent suspension system, which improves vehicle mobility and ride comfort. Combined with ease of handling, improved crew comfort, V-shaped hull for excellent mine and IED protection, the RG31 is one of the best vehicles for the harsh off-road conditions of Afghanistan, where the vehicles will be deployed.

All vehicles will be manufactured in South Africa and delivery of the vehicles to GDLS-C will take place in 2010.

Johan Steyn, Managing Director of BAE Systems Land Systems South Africa, said: "This follow-on order testifies both to the reliability of the RG31 design and its build quality, but more importantly, the capability this battle proven vehicle with its superior protection levels gives to the men and women in uniform. It proves once again the integrity of BAE Systems' engineering and manufacturing excellence."

Source : BAE Systems PLC (LSE: BAES.L)