Paramount Land Systems, a subsidiary of Paramount South Africa, has announced the launch of its long wheel base variant of its Maatla Protected Vehicle (LPV) for the border security requirements of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), during the African Aerospace & Defence Exhibition 2024 (AAD), held at Waterkloof Airforce Base, in Tshwane. The new variant of the Maatla has been designed and developed in response to the South Africa National Defence Force (SANDF) requirements for border patrol missions and counter-insurgency operations, accommodating up to 12 personnel, in a 2+10 configuration due to its additional 675mm length. The Long Wheel Base Maatla is building on the success of the Maatla, launched during AAD 2022, and in operation with two African countries whose border security forces and Gendarmerie are deployed in some of the most challenging security environments on the African continent. The vehicle further leverages more than three decades of Paramount’s engineering excellence in producing iconic, world-leading armoured vehicles for armed forces around the world.
Lindiwe Tshabalala, Paramount South Africa CEO stated: “The Maatla offers advanced features and reconfigurability, making it the ultimate solution for border patrol and security operations. Built with versatility in mind, the Maatla and its “Smart Floor” technology, enables the vehicle’s seating to be quickly removed and adapted for various assignments, including border patrol, ambulance services, command and control, military support, policing, and peacekeeping missions; from reconnaissance to logistics support to medical evacuation. Paramount’s extensive experience over three decades has equipped it to develop tailored, cost-effective solutions that address the unique challenges faced by African armed forces. Internal and border security are our key capabilities, whether it be supplying armoured vehicles, crowd control equipment, surveillance aircraft, forward operating bases, specialist training or fusion cells providing real-time intelligence to support informed decision-making by border security forces. By bolstering our border security solutions with the Maatla, we are able to provide our customers the most comprehensive border security solutions on the continent.”
The Maatla provides all-round STANAG Level 1 ballistic protection, with options for additional scalable armour upgrades, providing unparalleled protection for its up 2+10 personnel deployed in demanding environments. The platform is powered by a high-performance engine that offers exceptional on and off-road mobility, additionally fitted with a 2-speed transfer case and 3 differential locks, enabling rapid deployment in both rugged and urban terrains. The Maatla can reach a road speed of up to 110 km/hr, with a cruising range of up to 600 km when traveling at 80 km/hr, and is able to achieve a fording depth of up to 750 mm without preparation. The Maatla can also be operated in extreme environments, with temperatures ranging from -10°C to + 55°C, without any preparation. The Maatla has been manufactured on a commercial vehicle chassis which provides class-leading reliability and proven capability, while capable of addressing all types of its terrain for its nine-crew personnel. It further features “Smart Floor” technology, enabling the seating to be quickly removed and the vehicle to be configured as either an ambulance, command vehicle or customisable for alternative mission requirements, such as border patrol, military support, policing, or peacekeeping missions. Day/night vision devices and extra sensors can also be fitted to provide 24/7 operability.
Paramount is a global aerospace and technology company, providing innovative and fully integrated turnkey solutions for customers around the world. Since its inception in 1994, Paramount has built strong relationships with governments and government agencies in over 30 countries around the world, earning an enviable reputation as a trusted advisor in the industry. Paramount is a leading innovator in the design and development of state-of-the-art products that it manufactures in locations throughout the world. It is partnered with some of the world’s largest and most reputable organisations in the global aerospace and high tech community. Paramount has the ability to understand its client requirements and to use its unique knowledge and experience to design cost-effective, future-proof solutions. As a result, Paramount has enjoyed strong growth and achieved an excellent track record of delivering successful projects.
