Light Mobility Vehicle: UK Defence Plans Unveiled
The UK Ministry of Defence has recently initiated a request for information (RFI) concerning a new vehicle designed to succeed the British military’s current Land Rover and Pinzgauer systems. This initiative seeks to develop a Light Mobility Vehicle (LMV) capable of fulfilling both protected transport and tactical support functions as the existing fleet is scheduled for retirement by the 2030s. While specific numbers regarding the planned LMV fleet remain undisclosed, a 2022 report from the UK defense agency revealed that the armed forces operated around 7,800 Land Rover and Pinzgauer units, offering a glimpse into the potential scale of this new procurement initiative.
In addition to the production and supply of these new vehicles, the RFI also emphasizes the importance of in-service support and training. These components are crucial for maintaining the LMVs and equipping future crews for operational deployments. The Light Mobility Vehicle project was first unveiled in 2024 as part of a larger government strategy aimed at replacing over a dozen different types of ground vehicles within the military. The Land Mobility Program is set to begin accepting proposals for the new systems in late 2025, with an announcement regarding the selected vehicles expected by the end of 2026.
Fleet Expansion Plans
A report from European Security & Defence outlines that this initiative will not only focus on the LMV but also encompass the acquisition of additional vehicles. Specifically, the framework plans to include 500 heavy vehicles and 2,000 medium vehicles alongside the LMVs. The heavy vehicles are projected to weigh up to 40,000 kilograms (88,185 pounds), while the medium variants will have a maximum weight of 20,000 kilograms (44,092 pounds). Each LMV is expected to fall within a weight range of 7,000 to 10,000 kilograms (15,432 to 22,046 pounds), ensuring they are lightweight yet robust enough for military use.
To complement the Land Mobility Program, the British defense ministry is also set to procure smaller vehicles through an initiative named the Light Tactical Mobility Platform. This separate effort aims to secure over 150 utility terrain and/or all-terrain vehicles. These vehicles will meet specific criteria, including a minimum speed of 40 kilometers (25 miles) per hour and a weight capacity of at least 270 kilograms (595 pounds). Furthermore, they will be legally certified for road use in the UK, enhancing the versatility and operational readiness of the British military.
