Denel displays guided weapons, landward defence systems at Defence Service Asia

State-owned defence technology company Denel is displaying its guided weapons and landward defence systems at the Defence Service Asia (DSA) exhibition this week.

Its Umkhonto surface-to-air missile can be launched from naval vessels or ground-based launchers. It travels at more than twice the speed of sound, can be configured to carry up to eight missiles and can reach simultaneous targets.

The Umkhonto-IR provides all-round defence against simultaneous air attacks from missiles and aircraft. Its accuracy and price make it a sought-after missile in its class, Denel said.

Further, the company's Ingwe anti-tank missile (ATM), also on display at the exhibition, is a highly versatile missile that can be launched from helicopters and fire-on-the-move land platforms, such as fighting vehicles. It is portable, cost-effective and can reach targets up to 5 km away.

It uses jam-resistant, laser beam-riding guidance and, once it is locked on to a target, it keeps tracking it until it is destroyed.

Denel will also display its portfolio of landward combat and mine-protected vehicles to visitors and decision-makers at the event.

Its RG series of vehicles offers capable and affordable solutions for military clients in conflict zones.

The RG41 is a new-generation combat vehicle that meets demanding firepower, mobility and protection requirements, with an emphasis on combat power. It is a highly mobile, wheeled combat vehicle that is suitable for modern warfare, it said.

Further, the RG31 Mk5 EHM is an armoured personnel carrier that provides protection against small arms fire and anti-tank mine detonations. It is fitted with a five-speed automatic transmission and provides excellent on- and off-road mobility.

Similarly, the RG21 can be easily configured for different missions and provides superb protection to crews and passengers, the company said in a statement.

“We enjoy a global reputation for our landward defence products, and our guided weapons systems which compete with the rest of the world at a time when there is a significant increase in demand for innovative and cost-effective products,” says Denel Group CEO Tsepo Monaheng.

“Through our historic partnerships with Malaysia, we have built a strong reputation in the broader Asian region and the quality of our turrets, long-range artillery and mine-resistant vehicles is well-respected.

“Our presence at DSA24 indicates that Denel is ready for business. We will use DSA24 to consolidate our foothold and grow our presence in South-East Asia and beyond.

“We intend to meet with defence analysts and decision-makers and seek opportunities for trade and collaboration throughout the broader South-East Asia region,” said Monaheng.