Following a ‘rapid procurement process’ the British Army will be receiving 500 support trucks to support operational activity.

“Collaboration between Defence Equipment & Support, Army Headquarters and the Field Army has helped push the boundaries of Defence procurement, acquiring all the vehicles in just 7 months”, the Ministry of Defence (MOD) said.

A £282 million contract has been awarded to Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles which will see them deliver the multipurpose trucks.

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The MOD says the support trucks “will allow personnel to load flat racks onto the platform, which can carry essential logistics such as ammunition, food, water, and support material, to operational locations”.

The vehicles will be from the HX family – a range of purpose-designed military trucks equipped with a multitude of protection capabilities, keeping our most important asset safe, our people.

They will be delivered under the ‘Rapid Acquisition Project’, meaning these advanced mobility trucks reach operational deployment swiftly, ultimately enhancing our military’s agility and responsiveness.

‘Best tools available’

Minister For Defence Procurement, James Cartlidge, highlighted the significance of swift transport capabilities for frontline operations, saying: “The rapid delivery of transport capabilities to the front line is paramount to the lifeblood of British Army logistics and operations.

He added: “This procurement demonstrates our commitment to equipping our Armed Forces with the best tools available, ensuring mobility, agility, and resilience in the face of evolving threats.”

The HX family is known for its cost-effective mobility truck class and integration of military off-the-shelf components.

Designed to bolster military operations, the HX vehicles offer high mobility and reliability in challenging terrains. 

The platforms have several capability improvements compared to those already in service, including an increased payload, a reduced turning circle, an underrun protection safety feature and a more efficient EURO 5 engine.

‘Essential reinforcement’

Colonel Stuart Nassé, Assistant Head Military Capability Delivery, Army Headquarters said: “We are delighted with this project which provides essential reinforcement to the logistic spine of the Army. 

“As a collaborative project, it shows that the acquisition process can be responsive to user demands, and more importantly that when the user, delivery agent and industry all work together we can achieve significant outcomes quickly. We are really excited to put this important capability in the hands of the soldiers this year.”

The MOD added: “The rapid procurement of these vehicles comes at an essential time, as in 2024 the British Army will face increased commitments through Operation Mobilise and its offer to the Nato New Force Model. 

“The procurement contract also delivers on the Chief of General Staff, General Sir Patrick Sanders’ objective of increasing logistical lift as a British Army capability”.