Eurosatory: Paramount unveils new 8x8 ICV

African defence company Paramount Group has unveiled its new-generation 8x8 Infantry Combat Vehicle (ICV), Mbombe 8, for land forces personnel protection.

The Mbombe 8 is a multi-role, mine hardened platform based on the Mbombe 6 design using a new form of construction for improved protection and a lower profile.

The new ICV has a kerb weight of 19 tonnes and gross weight of 28 tonnes, with payload capacity of nine tonnes including crew, supplies, weapon system and ammunition. It is powered by a turbocharged, six-cylinder diesel engine mated to a six-speed automated transmission, and is capable of reaching speeds of up to 110km/h. It has an 800km operating range.

The vehicle features STANAG 4569 Level 3+ ballistic protection and STANAG 4569 Level 4a and 4b blast protection. It can be integrated with various weapon stations and turrets, such as the AU-220M remote turret with a 57mm cannon and 7.62mm machine gun. The driveline and cooling systems have been tested and operate in the temperate of -55 to +55 degrees Celsius.

The first Mbombe 8 advanced prototype will start extensive mobility trails soon, and production will be undertaken in either Kazakhstan or South Africa.

Ivor Ichikowitz, founder and executive chairman, Paramount Group, said: 'The Mbombe 8 is world-leading in its class, this is a product that we are very proud of. We pioneered mine-resistant flat floor technology which is central to the design of the new 8x8 platform.

'Another important feature is the driveline commonality across our family of vehicles, as is the case with the Marauder XT (4x4), Mbombe 6 (6x6) and Mbombe 8. This presents a unique opportunity for the global market, affording a prospective end-user of all three vehicles significant savings in the areas of maintenance and logistical support.'

The unveiling follows the announcement that the company began local production in Jordan of its 6x6 ICV, Mbombe 6, as part of a partnership between the company the Jordanian defence industry.

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