The company’s more than 25 bullet-resistant vehicles are each equipped with a protection package from sister company SVI Engineering. Available protection ratings include B4 discreet (handguns), B4+ discreet (handguns and AK-47) and B6 (assault rifles, including AK-47, R1 and R5), with the latter level offered in both semi-discreet (aimed specifically at the security industry) and fully concealed forms. Additionally, SVI Secure offers armoured guardhouse units for rent.

SVI said the rental fleet includes a broad selection of discreetly armoured VIP vehicles, suited to private individuals, such as B6-armoured versions of proven ladder-frame SUVs such as Toyota’s Fortuner, Land Cruiser Prado and Land Cruiser 200, along with a B4-armoured Mercedes-Benz V-Class.

There’s also a Volkswagen Golf 8 GTI, which features SVI’s bespoke AK-47-resistant B4+ package, as launched earlier in 2024. This armoured hot hatch is furthermore deployable as a rapid-response vehicle. Meanwhile, the trusty Toyota Hilux is a staple in the rental fleet, particularly when it comes to meeting the needs of security firms.

Options here include both single- and double-cab versions of the Hilux bakkie, most of which are fitted with SVI’s field-proven B6 Stopgun V2.0 package. A single-cab Hilux additionally equipped with an armoured personnel carrier (APC) canopy is also available, with this fully homologated solution providing B4+ protection for an extra five crew members.

The SVI MAX 3 Troopy – a multi-role 8-seater armoured personnel carrier (APC) based on Toyota’s Land Cruiser 79 chassis and offering B6 protection thanks to its bespoke hull – is likewise available to security firms for hire, as is a UD Kuzer RKE 150 truck that incorporates SVI’s factory-backed full armoured cab replacement.

“Thanks to our extensive fleet of armoured vehicles, we cover a broad range of client requirements, from the safeguarding of valuables-in-transit to riot control and, of course, VIP transport. On the latter point, in partnership with our trusted associates in the close-protection field, we’re also able to offer our executive clients highly experienced security details,” said Cobus de Kock, SVI Secure Director.

Officially established in 2019, SVI Secure has regional hubs in Gauteng and the Western Cape as well as KwaZulu-Natal, with a newly opened office in uMhlanga. The company’s armoured vehicles are available to rent right across South Africa and even in select neighbouring countries. Both short- and long-term rental options are available, the company said.

In order to ensure SVI Secure’s armoured vehicles are not used for nefarious activities, all new clients go through a standard vetting process and are thus required to meet certain criteria before any rental agreement can take effect, the company added.

Though exact rental costs depend on the model derivative (and the duration of the rental period), vehicles can generally be rented from R5 000 to R20 000 per day.

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The mid-August tender specified that the vehicle should have an ergo-metric internal height of minimum 1.8 m, not exceeding 2 m.

The vehicle shell must be a monohull and be powered by an engine with a minimum displacement of 6.5 litres and minimum output of 240 hp. The gearbox must be fully automatic 6-speed. Further, power steering, permanent 4×4 mobility and a top speed of 120 km/h is specified, with fuel capacity to allow for minimum 600 km range.

The vehicle must be able to give ballistic protection against AK-47 rifles (7.62×39 mm FMJ at 10 m) and be upgradable to STANAG Level 1 on all vertical sides. Euro norm standard B6, protecting the vehicle 360 degrees, with the roof and floor able to withstand 7.62×39 mm at an angle of 30 degrees from horizontal is required. Alternatively, equivalent levels such as BR-6 and US NIJ III Plus for vehicles for the Middle East and Europe need to be met.

The vehicle’s structure should be designed to prevent shrapnel and blasts from anti-personal munitions on the roof and underfloor. Resistance to grenade explosions at close range is required, however the document notes the vehicles do not need to be resistant to artillery shells, anti-tank mines or rockets. Additionally, provision for add-on armour to increase protection is required.

Two emergency escape hatches must be provided, one above the commander’s seat, the other at the rear of the vehicle. These hatches must allow personnel to exit with their equipment and be manually lockable from the inside. Further, the roof should be reinforced. A large window must be provided to allow for situational awareness and should have the same level of protection as the vehicle body. Gun ports must be installed, with a minimum of 4 per side, one in front of the commander’s seat, and an additional gun port in the rear.

Seating layout should include two front seats, with eight outward facing seats in the middle, with a rear area including multipurpose layout to allow for cargo storage or two additional seats. The vehicle should include two front doors, two side doors and a rear door. All doors must be internally lockable, to prevent outside access. Driver should be able to lock all doors at once from driver’s seat. Driver, Commander and crew doors must be hydraulically or pneumatically operable in case of emergency.

Two unique requirements for the vehicle include a camera system, and a bulbar/scraper. An on-board camera system with recording storage for 24 hours must be installed, with a minimum of four externally mounted on all four sides and covered with mesh type protection. As for the scraper, it must be capable of lowering and raising from the driver’s position, presumably using a switch. The scraper must be able to move obstructions from the vehicle’s path. A “V” shaped dozer/bullbar must be easily removeable in case of damage, to ensure mobility. The dozer must be capable of moving a 3-ton obstacle.

The vehicle must be supplied with a Mobile Adjustable Rescue/Assault System (MARS), which must be mounted on the vehicle’s roof, and allow for two personnel to access structures at a minimum of 8 metres in height, with the tender listing the height of an Airbus A380 top door as a minimum reachable point.

Further, there must be a camera mounted to the front of the breaching platform, with a display mounted close to the driver to enable precise positioning of the vehicle and the MARS.

The bid stated that quantities cannot be guaranteed and order/s will be placed as and when required. The contract period will be for two years.

While the bid window closed on 02 October 2024, several vehicles displayed at the recent Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD) exhibition in September met these requirements and could be potential bidders. Notably, the SVI Max SWAT, and Paramount’s Maverick.

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Aimed at markets in Africa, Latin America and Asia, Milkor launched the Land Cruiser-based 6×6 Frontier military vehicle. This vehicle addresses the need for an agile, well-protected military transport vehicle. Built on the reliable Toyota Land Cruiser chassis, this 6×6 vehicle features a 4.5-liter V8 engine, providing it with a powerful, yet adaptable, platform for various combat and peacekeeping roles.

Milkor said the Frontier is ideal for regions requiring mobility and cost-effective military solutions. It features proven off-road capability with military-grade armour. Variants include troop carrier (seating up to 12), Long Range Patrol Vehicle, Rapid Reaction Vehicle and fire fighter. Gross vehicle mass (GVM) is 8 700 kg and top speed up to 120 km/h. Armour can be up to B6 level.

A smaller, lighter 4×4 Frontier model with a GVM of 5 700 kg is also available, perfect for border surveillance and utility tasks. It is available in three versions, including a stripped-down extra lightweight VTT version.

Another standout offering of Milkor’s Land Systems is the Milkor Bushcat APC (Armoured Personnel Carrier). Previously known as the Milkor 4×4, this 12-ton GVM vehicle offers a balance between high-level protection and operational efficiency, positioning it as a cost-effective solution for military and peacekeeping operations.

Designed with rugged terrain and infantry transport in mind, the Bushcat provides robust protection for its occupants, making it an ideal choice for peacekeeping missions, border security and law enforcement. It offers military-standard protection with minimal operational costs, making it one of the most affordable APCs in its class, Milkor said. Blast protection is to STANAG 3A and 3B standards, with Level 2 ballistic protection. It can accommodate manned or unmanned turrets.

Milkor’s brand new Vanguard MRAP (Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected) vehicle was launched at AAD 2024. This 20-ton GVM vehicle is built for high-end combat and cross-domain operations, offering what the company said is unparalleled protection and strength. It meets NATO STANAG 4A and 4B standards, providing protection against 10 kg landmines. Its Level 3 ballistic protection ensures the safety of the 2+8 or 2+10 crew, depending on the seating configuration.

Built for demanding environments, the Vanguard MRAP features independent suspension and a 450-horsepower engine, giving a top speed of 100 km/h on road. The turret may be optionally manned or unmanned. With its V-shaped hull design, it offers enhanced survivability in combat situations, making it ideal for UN peacekeeping missions and European defence forces. Variants include troop deployment, command vehicle, border surveillance, field ambulance and anti-riot capability.

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The MAX SWAT is a sibling to the company’s popular MAX 3 range of armoured personnel carriers (APCs) and the MAX 9 military vehicle.

“From the outset of our rigorous design and engineering process, we knew a high level of adaptability was key for the SVI MAX SWAT – and that’s exactly what we’ve achieved. This new APC’s versatility means it’s well suited to various sectors, from police and correctional services to private security and indeed military. Therefore, AAD 2024 was the perfect place for us to reveal it,” said Jaco de Kock, CEO of SVI.

The new SVI MAX SWAT has been designed for a wide range of roles, including border patrol, public-order maintenance, command & control, and tactical surveillance, as well as special weapons & tactics (SWAT) and mobile assault & reconnaissance system (MARS) operations.

Providing a minimum protection level of EN1063 BR6 (assault rifles, including AK47, R1 and R5), the MAX SWAT employs a custom-fabricated armoured monocoque hull (bolted to a ladder-frame chassis) and armoured glass windows, with the latter strategically positioned to maximise situational awareness. The substantial side doors, meanwhile, allow for rapid ingress and egress, providing a distinct tactical advantage during high-risk operations, SVI said.

The 12-seater MAX SWAT can carry a payload of more than 2 tonnes. It can be fitted with an optional auxiliary power unit (APU) capable of independently running the air-conditioning system as well as any specialised systems (such as ground radars and long-range cameras) that the client may wish to include. These can be accommodated in two cargo bay areas at the rear corners of the vehicle. At AAD 2024, one bay was fitted with a Honda generator, and another a Hensoldt South Africa Bushbaby 100 optronic mast.

“Since reliability and ease of maintenance are particularly crucial factors for vehicles tasked with transporting personnel and equipment in high-risk areas, SVI opted to use a well-proven powertrain from Japanese automotive giant Isuzu. As such, the MAX SWAT employs the 7.8-litre, inline-six turbodiesel engine (6HK1-TCN) familiar from Isuzu’s range of medium-duty trucks,” the company said.

Generating peak outputs of 176 kW and 706 Nm, this six-cylinder motor drives all four wheels as standard. SVI upgraded the drivetrain to include a six-speed Allison 2500 Series automatic transmission in place of the otherwise-standard manual gearbox.

“The use of this field-proven Isuzu 4×4 powertrain, along with tough Isuzu axles and suspension components, plus various commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) components, serves to not only ensure reliability and simplify maintenance but also to boost operational efficiency and thus reduce total lifecycle costs. In fact, routine servicing can be performed at any Isuzu dealership across South Africa or in neighbouring African countries,” SVI said.

The SVI MAX SWAT has a build time of three months and is priced from R4.4 million. It comes standard with SVI’s innovative anti-riot scraper – which looks like a regular bumper until it is deployed – as well as anti-riot screen guards. In addition to the APU, available options include heavy-duty runflat rings, shot-detection and -location systems, medical equipment, and mast-mounted camera.

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