General Dynamics Land Systems–UK and Ricardo are proud to announce a strategic collaboration established to develop a bespoke vehicle to support the British Army’s Light Mobility Vehicle Programme (LMV) — a key componenent of the Army’s broader Land Mobility Programme (LMP).
Built on the 5-Star NCAP-rated Ford Ranger family of trucks, the vehicle seamlessly integrates General Dynamics and Ricardo technology to offer a best-in-class Off-The-Shelf (OTS) platform that meets the Army’s requirements for payload, mobility, and through-life support. With militarised 4×4 and 6×6 variants on display at DSEI, the partnership demonstrates innovation, sustainability, and operational excellence.
Global Strength Meets UK Defence Needs
Utilising the recently launched 2025 Ford Ranger Super Duty, the partnership has fully integrated its upfit system while maintaining the class-leading safety, payload of up to 2,000kg, enhanced powertrain options and advanced trailer technology of the heavy-duty Ranger platform to meet the military’s demanding operational requirements.
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Download free sample pagesIts relevance to the UK MoD lies in its scalability, durability, and compatibility with defence-grade modifications. The partnership brings together the extensive UK-based capabilities of General Dynamics Land Systems–UK and Ricardo to deliver a solution that meets the British Army’s operational needs while driving national prosperity. With significant manufacturing, engineering, and support operations across the UK, this partnership represents a major investment in British industry. The Ford Ranger—Europe’s leading pick-up truck—is ideally suited for Commercial Off-The-Shelf (COTS) conversion, and its integration into the LMV programme aligns directly with the principles of the Land Industrial Strategy (LIS), supporting job creation, supply chain resilience, and long-term economic growth across the defence and automotive sectors.
The partnership recently showcased a range of demonstrator vehicles—including militarised 4×4 and 6×6 variants—on the General Dynamics and Ricardo stands at DSEI, highlighting the platform’s adaptability and readiness for defence applications.
Scott Milne, Vice President & General Manager at General Dynamics Land Systems-UK, said: “General Dynamics Land Systems–UK is excited to be working with Ricardo to develop a bespoke Ford Ranger for this important programme. Our partnership brings together the best of UK defence and automotive engineering. By combining General Dynamics’ programme leadership and Ricardo’s technical innovation on a proven Ford platform, we are delivering a solution that is not only fit for purpose but also aligned with the Army’s Land Industrial Stategy. This programme will be delivered from our facilities in South Wales—supporting UK jobs, industry, and capability.”
Paul Tarry, Head of Defence & Special Vehicles at Ricardo, said: “We are extremely pleased with the latest 4×4 and 6×6 Ford Ranger conversions. These platforms offer a proven, capable, and flexible solution that performs reliably in demanding environments. The HEX 6×4 and 6×6 conversions are being developed effectively with single, extended, double cab and Super Duty variants while maintaining the base vehicle’s warranty, providing customers a cost-effective, flexible means to significantly improve the payload and mobility of the base product.
This partnership represents a powerful union of defence expertise, automatic innovation, and industrial commitment—ready to deliver a next-generation light mobility solution for the British Army.
