Paramount, the global aerospace and defence technology company, today announced the delivery of its Maatla 4×4 Light Protected Multi-Mission Border Patrol Vehicle to its partners, the Ghanaian Ministry of Interior, during the African Aerospace and Defence Expo (AAD 2024) in Tshwane, South Africa.
The introduction of the Maatla LPV, meaning “Power” in Setswana, aligns with the Interior Ministry’s continued efforts to strengthen their border patrol and overarching defence operations, emboldening the country’s existing national security apparatus in the face of increasing security threats impacting the greater Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
The Maatla, now in operation with two African countries, meets and exceeds increasing global industry demand for lighter weight and more affordable armoured vehicles, while offering advanced capabilities and reconfigurability in the field in the process. Both its light weight and cost-effectiveness make it an attractive option for nations seeking cutting-edge security capabilities, without the prohibitive costs of heavier armoured platforms.
Deon Grobler, CEO of Paramount Land Systems stated: “The Maatla LPV offers advanced features and reconfigurability, making it the ultimate solution for internal security and border patrol 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 policing, border patrol, ambulance services, command and control, military support and peacekeeping missions; from reconnaissance to logistics support to medical evacuation.”
“Paramount’s deliveries of the Maatla reflects the company’s commitment to supporting African nations as they confront an increasingly complex security landscape, leveraging the latest in armoured vehicle technology to enhance operational effectiveness and mission success.”
The Maatla provides all-round STANAG Level 1 ballistic protections, with options for additional scalable armour upgrades, providing unparalleled protection for its up to eight 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.
Grobler added: “We are pleased to announce that deliveries of our advanced Maatla armoured personnel carrier are underway to the Ministry of Interior of Ghana. Our partners in Ghana and across Africa are benefitting from three decades of armoured vehicle innovation, engineering excellence, and market leadership, emblemised by the multi-mission Maatla. This best-in-class LPV is designed to meet the challenges faced by modern border security forces.
The Maatla can reach a road speed of up to 100 km/hr, with a cruising range of up to 600 km when traveling at 80 km/hr, and a fording depth of up to 750 mm without preparation. The vehicle can also be operated in extreme environments, with temperatures ranging from -10°C to + 55°C, without any preparation.