BAE Systems launches Brazil pilot to build military vehicle components locally

BAE Systems Hägglunds has launched a pilot programme in Brazil to manufacture components for its military vehicles. The initiative, carried out with Knightec Group Brazil, will focus on gear housings for the BvS10 all-terrain vehicle. Both companies aim to boost local engineering skills while cutting production costs.

The move follows recent orders for the BvS10, including a deal with Austria for 100 armoured reconnaissance vehicles.

The partnership will see Knightec Group Brazil bring its automotive engineering expertise to BAE Systems' supply chain. Based in Resende, Rio de Janeiro, the team will develop conceptual designs for gear housings, prioritising cost efficiency and performance improvements.

Lars Pettersson, engineering director at BAE Systems Hägglunds, welcomed the collaboration. Fabricio Campos, Knightec's country manager in Brazil, added that the project is about building local industrial capability and strengthening engineering competence.

Beyond immediate production goals, the pilot programme aims to establish processes for more complex design work in the future. If successful, it could increase Brazil's production capacity and support scaling up after recent BvS10 contract wins in multiple countries.

Technology transfer and skills development are central to the project. The long-term vision includes expanding Brazil's role in military vehicle manufacturing while maintaining high engineering standards.

The pilot programme marks a step toward localised production of BvS10 components in Brazil. With Austria's recent order for 100 vehicles, the collaboration could help meet growing demand. Future phases may involve more advanced design work and increased manufacturing output.