21 February 2019

IDEX 2019: Paramount launches Mbombe 4, wins contract

by Charles Forrester

South Africa’s Paramount Group launched the Mbombe 4 at the IDEX 2019 trade show in Abu Dhabi on 17–21 February.

The new vehicle is powered by a turbo diesel 6-cylinder engine and has a burst speed of 140 km/h. Weighing 16 tonnes, the vehicle has a payload of 2.7 tonnes, which encapsulates weapons systems, ammunition, crew, and supplies.

Paramount Group launched an all-new Mbombe 4 at IDEX 2019, receiving a contract at the show for the vehicle. (Paramount Group)

The crew compartment has STANAG 4569 Level 3 ballistic protection, blast protection to STANAG 4569 Level 4a and 4b, and protection against a 50 kg TNT side blast or roadside bomb; further armour can be added as required. The V-shaped hull of the vehicle also assists in mine blast protection. Other options for the vehicle include a roof hatch and roof-mounted turrets or weapons stations.

Notably, rear access to the vehicle is provided by a ramp instead of side-hinged access doors that are common in 4×4 mine-resistant, ambush-protected (MRAP) vehicles..

The company was awarded a contract at the show by the UAE for four vehicles, which are expected to be used for testing and evaluation purposes before any further procurement by the country.

“[The Mbombe 4] gives us the only homogeneous fleets of 4×4, 6×6, and 8×8 vehicles,” executive chairman of Paramount Group, Ivor Ichikowitz, told Jane’s .

“Countries around the world are beginning to realise that what it costs to run vehicles over a 25-year service life is the important thing. Because of the commonality between these vehicles, we can provide one logistics train, one primary spare parts stock,” he added.

South Africa’s Paramount Group launched the Mbombe 4 at the IDEX 2019 trade show in Abu Dhabi on 17–...

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