Army Engineering Equipment

Gap Crossing Capability

Client: New Zealand Army

Description

The New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) has a requirement for a mechanically launched, single unit bridge system for crossing gaps (streams, rivers and anti vehicle ditches) up to 13 metres in width. The proposed system should be either fitted to a vehicle or be mounted on a trailer towed behind a vehicle.

Government approval

In June 2004 the Government agreed that Defence seek proposals for the Army Engineering Equipment project. The project comprises three elements, combat earthmoving equipment, water treatment systems and rapid gap crossing equipment.

In January 2005, it was agreed that the NZDF would undertake the procurement of the combat earthmoving equipment and the water treatment systems, with the Ministry of Defence managing the Gap Crossing Capability.

Current status

The Ministry of Defence (MoD) and NZDF have signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the United Kingdom Ministry of Defence on collaborative procurement. Under this agreement the United Kingdom and New Zealand will purchase the same bridging equipment from General Dynamics European Land Systems (GDELS) and will purchase the same Prime Mover to support the bridging equipment from Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles GmbH.

For further information see the New Zealand Army web site (www.army.mil.nz) or contact:

Acquisition Division
Ministry of Defence
PO Box 12703
Molesworth Street
Wellington 6144
New Zealand

Phone: +64 4 496 0678
Fax: +64 4 496 0859
Email: info@defence.govt.nz