Ford has partnered with General Dynamics Land Systems-UK (GDLS-UK) and engineering firm Ricardo to compete for the British Army’s 2-billion-pound ($2.7 billion) Light Mobility Vehicle program.
The consortium is offering military-adapted versions of the Ford Ranger pickup to replace the force’s aging Land Rover and Pinzgauer fleets.
Under the arrangement, GDLS will serve as prime contractor for military integration, with Ford supplying the commercial platform and Ricardo overseeing engineering modifications.
Engines will be produced at Ford’s plant in Dagenham, England, with conversion work taking place in South Wales.
Examples of Ranger conversions for defense applications. Photo: Ford
Offering ‘Uncompromised Capability’
The effort aligns with Ford’s broader push to supply military platforms, following recent bids to develop next-generation tactical vehicles for the US Army.
Commenting on London’s program, Ford Europe President Jim Baumbick highlighted that its collaboration with GDLS and Ricardo reinforces the regional mobility supply chain for the country while equipping NATO allies with a flexible, commercial platform.
“The UK Ministry of Defence requires uncompromised capability, scale, and absolute reliability from day one,” Baumbick said. “Our commercial off-the-shelf Ford Ranger platform does just this.”
Contract by 2027
The competition has drawn rival bids from General Motors, Babcock International, and INEOS Automotive as commercial carmakers seek new revenue streams in the defense sector.
London is expected to award the contract next year, with initial vehicle deliveries valued at approximately 750 million pounds ($1 billion).
Land Rover Wolf 4×4 vehicle. Photo: PO Phot Si Ethell/UK Royal Marines