State-owned aerospace and defence technology group Denel has modified its Casspir mine-protected vehicles to accommodate clients’ varying firepower requirements.

Clients would be able to select the type and range of firepower that they required, which would serve as platforms for 81 mm mortar systems, anti-tank and anti-aircraft weapons. Further, the Plofadder mine-clearing system, developed by Rheinmetall Denel Munitions, could now be fitted onto the Casspir’s hull.

This modification significantly extended the range and versatility of the Casspir, which could now be used as a reconnaissance vehicle, a troop carrier, or a fire-support vehicle equipped with mortars, anti-aircraft weaponry or anti-tank weaponry.

“This will attract the interest of defence clients looking for a versatile and cost-effective family of mine-resistant vehicles,” the group said in a statement.

Denel Mechem GM Ashley Williams added that the modification would make the Casspir one the most cost-effective vehicles in its class globally. “Our clients can use the same family of vehicles that offer superior levels of protection and mobility, but in different roles.”

Clients would therefore save on maintenance costs, spare parts and logistics.
 
The Casspir was widely used for demining or peace-keeping operations and had been used from Afghanistan to Mozambique by the United Nations, the South African National Defence Force, police services and private security companies worldwide.
 
The hull and platform of the vehicle was manufactured in its entirety in South Africa by Mechem and its partners in the local defence industry. Existing Casspir 2000 NG vehicles could also be upgraded and modified to fulfil different roles as required by the client.
 
The conventional Casspir could also be adapted to serve as a command-and-control vehicle, a field ambulance or a recovery vehicle. All variants were fitted with run-flat tyres and are available in 6 X 6 or 4 X 4 format, with a choice of manual or automatic transmission.