Bulldog

12 Oct 2007

Upgraded FV430s prove their value to the British Army in Iraq

Overview

• BAE Systems is the design authority for the FV430 series in service with the British Army
• Two contracts valued GBP 150 million in total to upgrade 900 vehicles with new powertrain which offers improved speed and performance, improved mobility and improved reliability x 20

In parallel with the upgrade programme, BAE Systems has successfully responded to 14 Urgent Operational Requirements for the FV430 which included;

• external armour protection
• improved electrical system to increase power capacity
• fitted air conditioning

Performance

BAE Systems has hit its delivery targets for both the powertrain upgrades and the UORs. The vehicles are in theatre in Iraq and are performing exceptionally well, as Lt Col David Eadie from the British Army confirmed: "The vehicles are fitted with everything they should be fitted with and are very, very good news for us."

Key Facts

• Up-armoured, upgraded FV430 has been designated Bulldog by the British Army
• Its increased protection is enabling the vehicle to protect its occupants from a wide range of attacks
• Royal Green Jackets Battalion (newly formed up as the Rifles) based at Basra Palace was the first unit to use the Bulldogs on operations.
• Bulldog provides enhanced protection over the Snatch Land Rovers it has replaced on the streets of Basra. It has become the vehicle of choice for carrying out patrols in the city
• Bulldog is used both day and night to patrol the streets of Basra returning only for refuelling, crew change and maintenance