BAE Systems and Knightec Brazil team up to boost BvS10 vehicle production

BAE Systems Hägglunds has launched a new partnership with Knightec Group Brazil to manufacture components for its BvS10 all-terrain vehicle. The collaboration will focus on developing gear housings, aiming to cut production costs while boosting performance. Both companies see this as a step toward expanding Brazil's defence engineering capabilities.

The pilot programme will begin with conceptual designs for the BvS10's gear housings. Engineers will prioritise cost efficiency and improved functionality in the early stages. Over time, the project plans to introduce more advanced design processes and increase production capacity.

Knightec Group Brazil will bring its automotive industry experience to support BAE Systems' supply chain. The company's expertise is expected to help refine manufacturing techniques and streamline component development. Fabricio Campos, Knightec's country manager, highlighted the goal of building local industrial skills and fostering a sustainable defence sector in Brazil.

The initiative follows recent BvS10 contract wins across eight countries, including Sweden, the UK, and the US. Lars Pettersson, engineering director at BAE Systems Hägglunds, stated that the partnership aims to create a strong foundation for future growth. Technology transfer and expanded engineering capabilities are central to the long-term strategy.

The programme will initially focus on gear housing designs but plans to scale up production in the future. By combining Knightec's engineering knowledge with BAE Systems' defence expertise, the collaboration seeks to strengthen Brazil's role in military vehicle manufacturing. The first results will depend on the success of the pilot phase and subsequent contract demands.