BAE Systems has delivered the first four BvS10 all-terrain vehicles to the Austrian Armed Forces, providing the service with a vehicle for operations in challenging terrains like mountains and snow.
BAE Systems is under contract, issued in 2016, to deliver 32 of the Armoured Personnel Carrier (APC) variant of the BvS10 to the Austrian Armed Forces.
Two handover ceremonies took place in February in the Austrian state of Tyrol and city of Salzburg and both were attended by Austrian Defence Minister Mario Kunasek.
Also in attendance were representatives of the Swedish government and BAE Systems Hägglunds, the Sweden-based manufacturer of the BvS10.
The first set of vehicles will be fielded by the Austrian Armed Forces’ 24th Infantry Battalion, a battalion of the 6th Mountain Infantry Brigade, which plays a leading role in the European Union Mountain Training Warfare Initiative (EU MTI), and the 2nd Engineer Battalion, which can provide combat support in mountainous terrain.
The Austrian APC variant of the BvS10 is fitted with a number of specific features including a 360 degree Observation Camera System with six Day/Infrared cameras and displays in the front and rear of the cabin for greater situational awareness. Also featured is the latest Remote Controlled Weapon Station, which can be operated by both the Gunner and the Commander, and is foldable to allow for swift transportation in the field.
Peter Nygren, Vice President of business development at BAE Systems Hägglunds, said: “The handover of these highly-capable vehicles marks a significant milestone in the BvS10 contract for Austria.
“We are very pleased with progress to date and the very positive feedback from the Austrian military. We expect final deliveries to conclude later this year.”
image © Bundesheer
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