Denel Land Systems a participant at Land Forces Africa 2013

The company designs, develops, manufactures and supports landward-based high-mobility and high-firepower systems, and is known for its development of combat vehicle systems, combat turrets, armoured personnel carriers, rapid-fire small-and medium calibre weapons as well as artillery systems.

Project Hoefyster

Stephan Burger, the CEO of DLS is optimistic about positive developments that are taking place with regards to the SA Army's requirements around its infantry and artillery capability.

"Denel continues to play a valuable strategic role in strengthening the landward capabilities of the South African National Defence Force through our wide range of quality products and systems," he says.

Denel is currently engaging with Armscor to ensure the finalisation of the contract for the production of infantry combat vehicles as determined by Project Hoefyster.

"This is a contract of great significance - not only for Denel's own business, but also for the entire South African defence industry," Burger says.

"We are also optimistic that the implementation of the recommendations of the Defence Review will lead to further dynamic growth of the South African defence industry. In this Denel will play a strategic role, as a defined national asset that has sovereign and strategic capabilities," says Burger.

In terms of Project Hoefyster, Denel Land Systems will provide the SA Army with the Badger family of new generation 8 x 8 modular infantry combat vehicles. The product baseline was achieved in September 2010 and the company is now awaiting the final green light for the production order.

The turret variants, fitted onto the 8 x 8 armoured modular vehicle platforms, will be similar to the systems currently being delivered to the Malaysian armed forces in terms of a R3.5 billion contract - the largest in the country's history.

New generation Casspir

Another division of the company, Denel PMP, has developed the 30mm ammunition used by the Badger, complementing its existing range of world class small and medium calibre ammunition. This was done in tandem with the 30mm Cam-Gun designed by DLS. The Badger is equipped with either a 30mm externally driven cam-operated cannon, a 60mm breech-loaded long range mortar, a 12.7mm machine gun or four Denel Dynamics Ingwe anti-tank missiles integrated into the turret variants manufactured by DLS.

Denel Mechem, recently incorporated into Denel Land Systems, has unveiled its new generation Casspir, mine-protected vehicle that sets new standards in protection, power, manoeuvrability and comfort.

The hull protection on the Casspir 2000 has been upgraded through the utilisation of higher quality armour steel, modern fabrication techniques and it is now mounted on a more reliable and versatile drive train and platform.

The company also introduced new, strengthened cab systems for MOTS and COTS logistical vehicles that will provide improved protection for vehicle crews transporting medicine, food and fuel in conflict areas.

Burger says Denel is developing into a technology powerhouse on the African continent and an asset that the entire country can be proud of. Through its products and services Denel is also making a significant contribution to high-tech manufacturing in South Africa.

"It also enables us, as a state-owned company, to make a contribution to the broader national objectives as defined in the Industrial Policy Action Plan (IPAP) and the National Development Plan to support the growth of key industries," says Burger.