UK Ministry of Defence, The Ministry of Defence has signed a £30 million contract with Plymouth-based company DML for a number of weapons-mounted patrol vehicles which will be used by troops in Afghanistan.
MWMIK (Mobility Weapons Mounted Installation Kit) vehicles will be a considerable asset to troops on operations. With a top speed of 80 mph, they will offer increased mobility and protection.
The vehicles can be fitted with a range of firepower, including a .50 calibre machine gun or an automatic grenade launcher and a general purpose machine gun.
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The MWMIK can carry up to three soldiers with their individual weapons, and can operate on a variety of terrains, including off road.
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The MWMIK can carry up to three soldiers with their individual weapons, and can operate on a variety of terrains, including off road.
Lord Drayson, Minister of State for Defence Equipment and Support, said:
“These vehicles are well armed, swift, and agile. They will boost our capability with some serious firepower. MOD and the Treasury have worked hard to get these powerful vehicles to our troops in quick time, and they will start going out to theatre early next year.”
The MWMIK will be produced at DML's Devonport dockyard facility, based on a design from Supacat Ltd. Universal Engineering Ltd will manufacture the chassis, Cummings the engine, and Allison the transmission.
DML has also recently been awarded a separate contract for a number of MEP (Military Enhancement Programme) vehicles. These are 6×6 load carrying all-terrain vehicles based on the same technology as MWMIK.
Background Information
1. DML is the prime contractor for MWMIK and is now owned by Babcock International Group plc.
2. There will be 130 vehicles in the fleet. Delivery will take place throughout 2008.
