General Motors subsidiary GM Defense and British vehicle protection specialist Jankel announced on 12 December 2023 that they have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to jointly pursue business opportunities for defence and government customers.
The collaboration envisages using GM Defense platforms such as the Heavy-Duty Sport Utility Vehicle (HD SUV) and its international variant, the Integrated Armored Vehicle (IAV), and will include support work in the United States in addition to the UK, Europe and in other locations where Jankel has an established support capability.
GM Defense uses a commercial-based approach, leveraging the advanced technologies of its parent, GM, to develop protected mobility solutions, such as the HD SUV, for global defence and government customers. These specially designed vehicles include independent armouring certification with options and configurations to suit customer requirements. With armour built into the vehicle design, GM Defense delivers a purpose-built platform that remains safe, reliable and easy to manoeuvre. GM Defense also offers the ability to produce international armoured vehicle fleets quickly and efficiently.
Jankel, meanwhile, is a leading global supplier of civilian armoured vehicles to defence and security customers, including military and non-governmental organisations, and is a key supplier of full-service vehicle support packages. A specialist in the conversion of a variety of base platforms to meet the protection requirements of its customers, Jankel has delivered over 2,000 specialist protected platforms to more than 15 global customers, including in the United Kingdom, Europe and elsewhere.
“GM Defense is looking forward to collaborating with Jankel, who can help support mobility solutions such as the HD SUV and IAV,” Steve duMont, president of GM Defense, was quoted as saying in a joint press release. “Aligning our capabilities with companies like Jankel, who have a proven track record among global defence and government customers, is important as GM Defense seeks to meet the needs of the UK Ministry of Defence’s Land Industrial Strategy and to help modernise the mobility platforms of our allies.”
“Announcing this MoU is a key step for Jankel as we continue to grow our global footprint in the defence and security vehicle space,” Jankel chairman Andrew Jankel added. “In selecting Jankel, GM Defense has recognised our strong position in the UK and Europe, and we look forward to pursuing joint support opportunities for GM Defense’s IAV. Whilst our initial focus will be on support for the IAV, the collaboration allows for a broadening of the scope to include other GM Defense products and services provided we find suitable joint opportunities. We very much look forward to growing this important relationship.”
