An export version of Thales’s innovative Hawkei light protected vehicle will be on display at Eurosatory, the largest international land and air-land defence and security exhibition in Paris this week.
The brand new left-hand drive version will be appearing in the live demonstration zone, offering potential international customers a first opportunity to see the vehicle in action.
A right-hand drive version will also be on the Thales stand, along with many of the company’s other capabilities.
Chris Jenkins said: “The Hawkei’s bolted modular design enables Thales to support technology transfer to countries where industrialisation can be performed at lower cost, giving customers the opportunity to develop their own in-country protected mobility capabilities and skills.”
The 7-tonne, 4x4 Hawkei is designed for rapid airmobile deployment. Available in a variety of variants including command, reconnaissance, liaison and utility, it is a compelling choice for operations with limited point-of-entry options.
In 2013 Thales delivered six Hawkeis to the Australian Department of Defence under Stage 2 of the Manufactured and Supported in Australia option of Land 121 Phase 4. The vehicles, comprising two Command, two Utility and two Reconnaissance variants, plus a trailer, have been
subject to an extensive 130,000 km testing programme.
The LAND 121 Phase 4 programme plans to acquire 1,300 Hawkei vehicles next year to replace the current Australian Army Land Rover fleet.
Note to editors
Eurosatory 2014, taking place June 16-20, is the largest international land and air-land defence and security exhibition with visitors from around the world.
About Thales
Thales is a global technology leader in the Aerospace, Transportation and Defence & Security markets. In 2013, the company generated revenues of €14.2 billion with 65,000 employees in 56 countries. With its 25,000 engineers and researchers, Thales has a unique capability to design, develop and deploy equipment, systems and services that meet the most complex security requirements. Thales has an exceptional international footprint, with operations around the world working with customers and local partners.
Thales Australia is a trusted partner of the Australian Defence Force and is also present in commercial sectors ranging from air traffic management to security systems and services. Employing around 3,200 people in over 35 sites across the country, Thales Australia recorded revenues of AUD 1 billion in 2013.