Scania will produce the THUNDART system’s 8x8 chassis in Angers

Scania has been selected to supply the carrier vehicle for the future THUNDART artillery system developed by Safran Electronics & Defense and MBDA for the French Army. Derived from the manufacturer’s civilian range, this 8x8 truck will receive an armoured cab and several specific military equipment items. The first deliveries are scheduled for 2029.

A rather unusual Scania will soon come off the production lines at the Angers plant. The manufacturer has been selected to supply the chassis for the THUNDART system, which is set to replace the Unitary Rocket Launchers currently used by the French armed forces.

The project is led by the consortium bringing together Safran Electronics & Defense and MBDA, selected by the French Directorate General for Armament. Scania will be involved in the automotive part, with a vehicle based on existing and already proven components, a choice intended to reduce development times and industrial risks.

A civilian carrier transformed into a military vehicle

The selected base is a four-axle carrier vehicle equipped with an 8x8 all-wheel-drive system. Derived from Scania’s civilian range, it will be extensively adapted to its new operational environment.

The vehicle will receive a CP20 cab capable of accommodating three people. Its armour and conversion will be entrusted to Essonne Sécurité, Scania’s long-standing partner. CMAR will be responsible for integrating the transported system.

Scania Public and Defense engineers, the manufacturer’s specialised department located near the Angers plant, will ensure the military adaptation of the truck. The planned equipment includes tie-down rings for air transport, a fording system and a night vision system.

Scania explains that it selected these various elements from its technical “toolbox” after studying the distances to be covered, the driving conditions and the constraints set out in the specifications.

Production integrated into the Angers plant

The French industrial dimension also played a role in the manufacturer’s selection. THUNDART vehicles will be assembled in Angers, at the same site as the brand’s civilian trucks.

Scania’s modular production system makes it possible to integrate military models among traditional production without completely transforming the assembly lines. This so-called “dual” organisation should make it possible to rapidly increase production rates if the needs of the armed forces evolve.

The manufacturer had already demonstrated this capability with the industrialisation of the Vampire military vehicle. For THUNDART, Scania claims an entirely French industrial organisation and short supply chains with partners located close to Angers.

The project also illustrates the value of civilian platforms for military applications. The use of mass-produced components facilitates increased production rates, but also parts supply, maintenance and technician training.

First deliveries in 2029

The first THUNDART vehicles are expected in 2029. The number of chassis concerned and the complete production schedule have not been specified.

Scania will also maintain the vehicles delivered to the French armed forces and train military maintenance personnel. This service is intended to ensure long-term monitoring of the equipment and facilitate interventions carried out directly by the armed forces.

With this contract, the Scania plant in Angers is therefore strengthening its role in the production of specialised vehicles. The future THUNDART will retain a base well known in the road transport industry, but with an armoured cab, four driven axles and equipment quite far removed from the traditional curtain-sided semi-trailer.