To close out October, Arquus will participate to MiliPol Qatar, a key security exhibition taking place in Doha from October 29 to 31. Arquus, a long-standing partner of the Qatari armed forces and security services, will be present under the French pavilion, alongside John Cockerill Defense, to showcase the latest innovations in its security range. For over four decades, Arquus has been committed to supporting Qatar’s armed forces and security services, contributing significantly to their modernisation and operational effectiveness. Since 1982, when the first VAB armoured vehicles were delivered, followed by the VBL models still in service today, trust between Arquus and Qatar has only grown stronger. In 2018, this relationship took a new step forward with the signing of a contract for the modernisation of the VAB Mk1 vehicles by the Qatari armed forces. This ambitious program, which includes modification studies, vehicle repairs, and training for industrial and military personnel, established a local production line in Qatar. With 126 fully renovated vehicles to date, Arquus became the first French defence company to set up military vehicle production directly in Qatar, demonstrating its commitment to long-term support for the country.
Arquus is also very active with Qatar’s internal security forces, especially with special units and operations and support units. These units have acquired armoured vehicles such as the HIGUARD 6×6 and the SHERPA 4×4, designed to meet the requirements for security missions, public order maintenance, and protection of critical infrastructure.
From patrolling and border control, special forces, and counter-terrorism, to public order maintenance and troop transport, the Arquus security range covers a broad scope of missions with battle-proven vehicles. These range from the adaptable, best-selling SHERPA, which meets various needs, to the VAB MK3, a 6×6 vehicle capable of carrying a large crew. Arquus teams will be present at MiliPol Qatar to showcase the entire range. This exhibition will also be an opportunity to discuss the latest armoured vehicle introduced at Eurosatory 2024 last June, the MAV’RX. Adapted to the Middle Eastern geography, this 8×8 combines high payload capacity, enhanced protection, and medium-calibre armament while maintaining excellent mobility.
The MAV’RX is a true multi-mission contact vehicle, capable of transporting a combat group, carrying out medical evacuation missions, and providing direct or indirect fire support. Thanks to Arquus’s expertise in systems integration, the MAV’RX can be equipped with HORNET remote-controlled weapon stations. With a payload capacity of 25/30 mm, it is also compatible with Cockerill turrets such as the CPWS from John Cockerill Defense, a company that Arquus is now a part of. Arquus and John Cockerill Defense will share a stand at this year’s MiliPol Qatar. Present with vehicles sold to internal forces for diverse missions and supported for over 12 years, Arquus, a long-standing partner of Qatar, will showcase its security range at MiliPol. This enduring and strategic partnership demonstrates Arquus’s commitment to supporting Qatar in its pursuit of sovereignty and enhanced security by providing robust, innovative, and customised solutions.
Arquus , formerly Renault Trucks Defense , is a French company specializing in military vehicles owned by French businessman Bernard Serin , through the Belgian group Cockerill. Politically, this acquisition is part of a strengthening of military collaboration between France and Belgium. The acquisition was finalized in June, and provided for 10% stakes of the Belgian and French States in John Cockerill Defense. Beyond Arquus© vehicles and Cockerill© weapon systems, each a reference in their respective markets, John Cockerill Defense will also propose combined offers of vehicles equipped with light tank turrets to better serve ground forces worldwide. It aims for an annual turnover of 1 billion euros and a workforce of 2,000 professionals by 2026, with a global presence and major operational bases in Belgium, France, Italy, India, and Saudi Arabia.
