UK Ministry of Defence, The Prime Minister announced to Parliament today plans to buy 140 additional Mastiff vehicles to enhance the mobility and protection afforded to our troops on operations in Iraq and Afghanistan.
MoD intends to finalise the deal for 140 of these battle-proven and highly popular vehicles in the next few weeks.
Secretary of State for Defence Des Browne said:
“Mastiff has proved its value on operations offering high levels of protection against mines and roadside bombs. Today I am pleased to announce our intention to purchase 140 extra Mastiffs.
“It's my job to make sure we are delivering the best equipment we can for our Armed Forces. The extra Mastiffs will give us a real increase in capability for our troops.”
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The MoD is currently in discussions with the US Government to agree the export from Force Protection Inc.
Mastiff is just one of a whole range of protected vehicles being used on operations including Challenger 2, Viking, Bulldog, Warrior, Vector, and Snatch.
Background Information
1. Mastiff has been welcomed by troops on operations.
2. In July 2006 the MoD announced it was providing new Mastiff vehicles, more Vector vehicles and upgrading the FV430s, known as Bulldog. The first Bulldog vehicles were delivered to Iraq in November 2006 and the first Mastiff vehicles arrived in Iraq in December 2006.
3. Mastiff is the UK variant of US Force Protection Inc's Cougar vehicle. NP Aerospace in Coventry integrate and up-armour the Cougars to create the finished Mastiff vehicle.
4. Over £100m of funding has been allocated for 140 extra Mastiff.
