Nigerian Company unveils new 'ARA' MRAP for the African market

A Nigerian Defence company Proforce has just unveiled the first combat ready MRAP optimized for the African market. The new Ara ('Thunder') mine-resistant ambush-protected (MRAP) vehicle was initially unveiled by the company in a defence exhibition held in South Africa on 14-18 September 2016.

Nine Units has already been delivered to the Nigerian Army and would soon begin field trials with immediate deployment to the active IED-filled North Eastern theater where the military is currently battling the deadly Boko Haram terrorist sect.

Nigeria Army signed an order to receive nine units in 2016 at the South African AAD 2016 for preliminary testing and evaluation whereby any feedback would be reviewed and necessary adjustments made to the vehicle depending on the customers preference.

Proforce is currently the leading indigenous Armoured vehicle designer in Nigeria, the company specialized in armored vehicles and personnel protections, armoured personnel carriers, ballistic helmets for military, police and civilian protection. It was established in 2008.

According to the manufacturers Proforce, the unique capability of the Ara is the superior maneuverability over various terrains with its fully independent suspension system coupled with a powerful engine in a four wheel drive provides small turning circles in a tight area and better mobility.
The vehicle utilizes run-flat tire technology to keep the vehicle operational when the tire suffers puncture also the tires are integrated with a central inflation system to maintain the correct tire pressure even with up-to four bullet holes.

The Ara turret can mount a 12.7 mm Machine Gun or grenade launchers which can be manually controlled or remotely depending on the customers request.

Proforce operates a 40 000 square meter facility in Ogun State and a 25 000 square metre facility in River State. The company has also supplied the Rwandan government with APCs and done business with the United Nations.

Ara ('Thunder') mine-resistant ambush-protected (MRAP) vehicle Specifications

ENGINE : 218 @ 2200rpm

GEARBOX : Allison 6 Speed Automatic

MAX SPEED : 96km/h

FUEL TANK CAPACITY : 200 L

Armament: 12.7 mm and 7.62 mm Machine Guns, grenade launchers