Export Version of Hawkei on Show at Eurosatory

Thales Hawkei light protected vehicle (photo : Thales)

The brand new left-hand drive version will be appearing in the live demonstration zone, offering potential international customers a first opportunity to see the vehicle in action.

A right-hand drive version will also be on the Thales stand, along with many of the company’s other capabilities.


Chris Jenkins said: “The Hawkei’s bolted modular design enables Thales to support technology transfer to countries where industrialisation can be performed at lower cost, giving customers the opportunity to develop their own in-country protected mobility capabilities and skills.”

The 7-tonne, 4x4 Hawkei is designed for rapid airmobile deployment. Available in a variety of variants including command, reconnaissance, liaison and utility, it is a compelling choice for operations with limited point-of-entry options.

In 2013 Thales delivered six Hawkeis to the Australian Department of Defence under Stage 2 of the Manufactured and Supported in Australia option of Land 121 Phase 4. The vehicles, comprising two Command, two Utility and two Reconnaissance variants, plus a trailer, have been subject to an extensive 130,000 km testing programme.

The LAND 121 Phase 4 programme plans to acquire 1,300 Hawkei vehicles next year to replace the current Australian Army Land Rover fleet.

“We developed Hawkei to appeal to the global market from the outset, based on class-leading foundations of protection, mobility and payload combined at an affordable price point. These ensure the vehicle can be readily configured to meet the specific needs of countries looking to keep their soldiers safe on operations”. said Chris Jenkins, CEO Thales Australia.

(Thales)