In a significant military development, South Africa showcased its latest development, an 8×8 wheeled armoured vehicle, the Badger, during an exercise, at the SA Army Combat Training Centre in Lohatla, Northern Cape. The Badger is set to replace the Ratel 6×6 armored vehicles, which have been a staple in the South African armed forces for over four decades.
Developed by the South African Company Denel Land Systems, the Badger is an 8-wheeled armored vehicle based on the Finnish Patria AMV. It has been customized for the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) with enhanced protection and suitability for local conditions. The Badger represents a significant upgrade in South Africa’s military capabilities.
Denel was tasked with producing 264 Badgers under Project Hoefyster, a contract signed in June 2007. Despite delays, with no deliveries as of August 2022, the unveiling of the Badger marks a new phase in this project. The first prototype vehicle was delivered to the SANDF in 2010.
The Badger will be delivered to the South African army in six variants, catering to different military needs. These include an IFV and Fire Support variants equipped with one 30mm automatic cannon, a mortar variant with a 60mm mortar, a command post variant, an anti-tank variant armed with Ingwe missiles, and an ambulance variant. Each variant is designed with specific operational roles in mind, enhancing the flexibility and effectiveness of the SANDF.
The Badger is based on all-welded steel armor, providing protection against the firing of small arms fire and artillery shell splinters. It also boasts LMT Flat Floor Technology for increased protection against landmines and IEDs, withstanding blasts of up to 8 kg of TNT beneath the vehicle. The design prioritizes both protection and rapid deployment capabilities.
The Badger is powered by a DI 12 Scania Diesel engine developing 543 hp coupled to a 7-speed automatic transmission. The vehicle can reach a top road speed of 100 km/h with a maximum road range of 800 km. It is equipped with a hydro-pneumatic suspension with optional height adjustment. The vehicle is able to ford water up to 2m deep.
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