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Terrorism is a global concern and with an increasing number of 'hotspots’ around the world, there’s a high risk involved when sending personnel – whether they are government officers or CEOs – overseas. Some places are obvious danger zones but there are also others where it’s not terrorism but also violence from drug cartels. Protection is therefore crucial and apart from bodyguards, companies also purchase vehicles which can offer a better chance of survival in the event of an attack. The level of protection depends on the customer’s needs and there are a number of specialists who modify vehicles for the purpose. The objective is to strengthen the vehicle to withstand bombs and bullets and in some cases, gas attacks. It is unlikely that the vehicle will be turned into one of those 'wonders' that James Bond used to drive (his cars are more realistic these days) with rocket launchers and tyre-shredders (not to mention that invisible mode!). Security services usually aim to either escape from an attack or if not possible, to have the occupants protected inside the vehicle until assistance can arrive. Land Rover, which is already a leading supplier of military vehicles, uses its expertise in the field to provide armoured versions of the Range Rover and Discovery, adding state-of-the-art protection to the already legendary all-terrain capability. Armour-plating typically adds some 700 to 800 kgs to the overall weight but from the outside, you won’t be able to tell.
Land Rover offers armoured versions of the Range Rover and Discovery which, on the outside, look no different from the standard versions
According to John Wright, Land Rover Manager – Government and Direct Sales, the global market for armoured vehicles is about 15,000 units per annum while those that has B6/B7 level protection (ability to withstand heavy assault rifle fire and side explosion from TNT or equivalent) is about 2,000 units. In Malaysia, AutoConneXion expects demand to be around 5 units per annum, mostly from embassies, royalty and very rich businessmen. Thankfully, the country is not a 'danger zone’ and demand is not higher. “The broad range of capabilities provided by an Armoured Land Rover makes it the ideal choice for government agencies, security organisations and businesses whose employees are exposed to high-risk locations. It also appeals to dignitaries, Class A entrepreneurs and high net-worth individuals who view personal safety as paramount,” he said. Land Rover works with Centigon, a French company which is the world’s largest and most experienced vehicle armouring company and depending on the requirements, the price can go up to RM3.6 million for an armoured version of the latest Range Rover with a 5-litre V8 engine and RM2.1 million for a Discovery. Options include an intercom system, under-bonnet fire extinguisher, tamperproof exhaust, self-sealing fuel tank and independent oxygen supply to ensure a continuous flow of fresh air to the cabin. There is also a new Surround Camera System which uses 5 cameras situated around the vehicle to provide an almost 360-degree view on the touch-screen and a Blind Spot Monitor system that utilizes side-mounted radar sensors to survey the vehicle's blind spots (probably adapted from the BLIS system on Volvos). Ballistic steel armour and glazing, which makes the vehicle heavier, provides protection against a wide range of handguns and rifles like the AK47, AK74, M16 and M60, as well as side blasts from high-explosive materials like those used in the terrifying IEDs (Improved Explosive Devices. Standard specification includes run-flat tyres, bullet-resistant glazing and underfloor Kevlar shielding for 360 degree under-skin protection. Detailed engineering changes are made to the base vehicle to ensure that it maintains optimum ride and handling on all surfaces, despite the additional mass.
With threats like IEDs which explode alongside a vehicle, special protection is needed in the armoured versions (top pictures show a demonstration) and the underside also needs to be strong enough to withstand explosions from below
Land Rover provides armoured vehicle customers with a comprehensive support programme, both before and after purchase, including a full 3-year/80,000 km factory warranty. A dedicated security consultant works closely with the customer during the sales process to ensure their full requirements are met. Once the vehicle is in service, the customer has access to a full driver training programme; a dedicated technician can also provide a number of scheduled visits each year, to assist with vehicle familiarisation and servicing.