Denel Group takes defence systems to South American markets

LAAD is South and Latin America’s premier defence exhibition and between the 14th and 17th April more than 700 exhibitors from 50 countries will be showcasing their products and systems at this biennial event. 

“We have a strong relationship with the Brazilian defence industry through the joint development of the A-Darter air-to-air missile (above), which has successfully completed advanced in-flight testing and we are confident that it will be a global leader in its class when production starts within the next 12 months,” said Saloojee. 

At LAAD Denel will also use the opportunity to profile the Rooivalk combat helicopter as a capable system for guerrilla warfare within the context of its successful deployment in the suppression of armed conflict in Africa. 

Saloojee says the successful deployment of the Rooivalk in peace-keeping operations in Africa has created a global awareness about the capabilities of the South African defence industry. “We have proven that we can deliver on very complex defence systems from design, through to the industrialisation and manufacturing phases, and into highly-effective deployment.” 

Denel Land Systems will showcase the MT-105 turret weapon system which is being evaluated by the Brazilian army for its new VBR-MR armoured car. The MT-105 combines Denel’s proven experience in turret design and manufacturing with its recent innovations in fire control.

The decision by the SA Army to commission Denel to manufacture the Badger infantry combat vehicle demonstrated that local forces have confidence in the local industry to provide them with frontline equipment. “This is an important factor when we are marketing other landward defence products such as the T5-52 truck-mounted artillery and the small- and medium calibre range of ammunition manufactured by Denel PMP,” said Saloojee. 

Denel will maximise on the fact that its products are designed for rugged terrains and climate conditions that are similar to conditions in South America. Most of the company’s products are battle-proven and have been deployed in operational circumstances.

“The quality of the diplomatic and trade ties between South Africa and countries in Latin and South America is of great importance for the defence industry because many contracts require government-to-government participation,” said Saloojee.