New breed of Mastiff on order for Army

Tuesday, Apr 07, 2009

A new breed of vehicle to give troops increased protection as they support missions in high threat areas is now on order following the signing of a £90M contract.

Integrated Survivability Technologies Limited (IST) will build Wolfhound, a six wheeled variant of the acclaimed Mastiff. Wolfhound will provide a highly protected load carrying vehicle to carry out a variety of tasks such as moving bulky stores for use in the construction of forward bases; as a Gun Tractor and Gun Limber for the Royal Artillery's 105 Light Gun and finally to carry general stores like ammunition, food or water.

Integrated Survivability Technologies Limited (IST) is a joint venture company between Force Protection Inc and Coventry-based NP Aerospace. The contract is for the supply of over 90 heavy tactical support vehicles based on the Cougar design. The development will create 50 new jobs within NP Aerospace and the supplier base.

Dr Andrew Tyler, Chief Operating Officer for Defence Equipment and Support said:

"I am proud to announce the order of the Heavy Support Vehicle, Wolfhound which, with the proven protection capabilities of the excellent Mastiff and Ridgback vehicles, will be a vital asset to battlefield commanders in supporting the frontline.

"This contract is an excellent example of how we are continuing to work with British Industry to secure highly skilled jobs and retain valued expertise in this ever changing market."

Wolfhound will be armed with a 7.62 GPMG self defence weapon and the normal fit of radio and electronic equipment. Its commonality of design will ensure that the support solution is already in place, and that the training bill for troops using the fleet is minimised.

DE&S project manager, Nick Fox, added:

"The capacity, performance and outstanding protection afforded by the vehicle will be much welcomed by front-line troops. Supplied as part of the Tactical Support Vehicle programme, building on lessons learnt from previous Urgent Operational Requirements and working closely with the new joint venture company, Integrated Survivability Technologies (IST), an improved capability will be delivered."

Force Protection Chief Executive Officer and chairman of IST, Michael Moody, said:

"Much like the Wolfhound vehicle requirement, Force Protection and NP Aerospace have come a long way in a very short time. We have established a partnership in the United Kingdom that we believe will become the base for growing our relationship with the UK Ministry of Defence. "

Source: MoD