Paramount Land Systems, a subsidiary of Paramount South Africa, has introduced a new long wheelbase variant of its Maatla Protected Vehicle (LPV) tailored for the South African National Defence Force (SANDF). This unveiling took place during the African Aerospace & Defence Exhibition 2024 (AAD) at Waterkloof Airforce Base in Tshwane.
Enhanced Design for Border Security
The new Maatla variant has been specifically designed to meet SANDF’s requirements for border patrol and counter-insurgency operations. With an additional 675mm in length, the vehicle can accommodate up to 12 personnel in a 2+10 configuration, enhancing its capacity for various missions.
Building on Proven Success
This long wheelbase Maatla builds on the success of the original Maatla, launched at AAD 2022. The vehicle is already in operation with border security forces and Gendarmerie in two African countries, demonstrating its effectiveness in some of the continent’s most challenging security environments. Paramount’s three decades of engineering excellence have culminated in this advanced, world-leading armoured vehicle.
Advanced Features and Versatility
Lindiwe Tshabalala, CEO of Paramount South Africa, highlighted the Maatla’s advanced features and reconfigurability. The vehicle’s ‘Smart Floor’ technology allows for quick removal and adaptation of seating, making it suitable for various assignments, including border patrol, ambulance services, command and control, military support, policing, and peacekeeping missions.
Unparalleled Protection and Mobility
The Maatla offers all-round STANAG Level 1 ballistic protection, with options for additional scalable armour upgrades. It is powered by a high-performance engine, equipped with a 2-speed transfer case and 3 differential locks, ensuring exceptional on and off-road mobility. This enables rapid deployment in both rugged and urban terrains.
Comprehensive Border Security Solutions
Tshabalala emphasized Paramount’s extensive experience in developing tailored, cost-effective solutions for African armed forces. The Maatla’s versatility and advanced features make it a comprehensive solution for border security, crowd control, surveillance, and more. Paramount’s offerings include armoured vehicles, crowd control equipment, surveillance aircraft, forward operating bases, specialist training, and fusion cells for real-time intelligence.
Performance in Extreme Conditions
The Maatla can reach speeds of up to 110 km/hr, with a cruising range of up to 600 km at 80 km/hr. It can ford depths of up to 750 mm without preparation and operates in extreme temperatures ranging from -10°C to +55°C.
Recent Deployments
In December 2022, Paramount announced that 50% of the Maatla vehicle contracts had been completed, with deliveries underway to customer countries, including the Democratic Republic of Congo. At AAD 2024, Paramount also announced the delivery of the Maatla 4×4 Light Protected Multi-Mission Border Patrol Vehicle to the Ghanaian Ministry of Interior.
The new Maatla variant represents a significant advancement in border security technology, offering SANDF and other African nations a robust and versatile solution for their security needs.