80-Million-Euro-Contract Belgium Selects LEGUAN Bridge Layer from KNDS

Source: Press release KNDS, angepasst von 2 min Reading Time

KNDS Deutschland (KNDS) and the Belgian Ministry of Defence have signed a contract for the delivery of eight LEGUAN bridge layers mounted on a 10x10 wheeled chassis. The contract, which KNDS won against several competitors, also includes 17 LEGUAN 26-meter bridges, a logistics package, and special tools.

(Picture:  KNDS)
(Picture: KNDS)

The LEGUAN is a modular bridge-laying system for mounting on either tracked or wheeled armored vehicles, which facilitates rapid bridge deployment for both military operations and humanitarian missions. It can lay either a 26-meter bridge or dual 14-meter bridges, overcoming obstacles up to 24 meters and 12 meters wide respectively. Both configurations adhere to MLC 80 load capacity standards, with the smaller bridge variant weighing 5.5 tons and the larger weighing 11 tons. The LEGUAN's fully automated horizontal laying mechanism allows the 26-meter bridge to be deployed in approximately 5-6 minutes, and the 14-meter bridges in 4-5 minutes, with retraction times of 8 and 7 minutes respectively. This operation can be conducted by a single operator from within a securely closed hatch.

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Chassis Versatility and Tactical Flexibility

The system is versatile and can be installed on different chassis types. The tracked version employs the Leopard 2 MBT chassis, featuring a robust MTU MB 873 diesel engine that outputs 1,496 horsepower, permitting a top road speed of 65 km/h and a range of 400 kilometers. Its wheeled counterpart operates based on a Tatra 10x10 chassis driven by a 340 kW Paccar diesel engine, achieving speeds up to 90 km/h and an extended range of 800 kilometers. While requiring only a two-member crew, the system is equipped with advanced thermal imaging, CCD cameras, NBC protection, and a 7.62mm machine gun for defense. Enhanced protection for the wheeled version is ensured with an armored cabin that meets STANAG 4569 Level 3 specifications for ballistic and explosive resilience.

The LEGUAN primarily enables military units to maintain mobility across challenging terrains by quickly bridging gaps, thus supporting strategic movement and logistical pathways. Beyond its military applications, its modularity and technological enhancements make it viable for disaster relief operations, providing crucial infrastructure support during emergencies. By now, its reliability and functionality have been affirmed globally, with adoption by 22 armies deploying it across both tracked and wheeled configurations. The contract value between KNDS and Belgium is approximately EUR 80 million.

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