BAE Systems Hägglunds has partnered with Knightec Group Brazil to establish military vehicle component production in Resende, Rio de Janeiro.
The collaboration centers on a pilot program supporting the BvS10 amphibious all-terrain vehicle, with initial work focused on developing and manufacturing gear housings designed to improve performance and reduce associated costs.
The BvS10 family of vehicles is in service with Sweden, Germany, the UK, Austria, France, and the Netherlands, with more than 1,200 units deployed worldwide and over 650 additional vehicles on order, including a confirmed order from the US.
‘Groundwork’ for Localized Capability
Throughout the project, the consortium will leverage technology transfer, drawing on Knightec’s automotive engineering expertise to strengthen BAE Systems’ supply chain.
This approach is also expected to support BAE Systems’ efforts to scale production to meet growing international demand, while enabling capacity expansion and more advanced vehicle designs.
“This collaboration represents more than a single opportunity — it is about building local industrial capability, strengthening engineering competence, and supporting the development of a sustainable defence ecosystem in the country,” said Fabricio Campos, country manager at Knightec Group Brazil.
“Together, we are laying the groundwork for long-term growth and future programmes in Brazil.”
‘Ambition to Do More’
According to BAE Systems, the latest teaming reflects its proven relationship with Knightec, which recently merged with Swedish company Semcon to form Knightec Group, and extends its successful cooperation from Europe into the South American country.
The partnership will also be supported by its century-long presence in the country in support of the Brazilian Armed Forces, with M113s and M109s delivered to the army, Hawker Siddeley C-91 and aircraft systems for the air force, as well as the NAM Atlântico carrier, Amazonas-class offshore patrol vessels, and Assault Amphibious Vehicles provided for the navy and marine corps.
“Over the years we have provided military capability to all branches of the Brazilian Armed Forces together with training for both military and civilian support teams,” said Marco Caffe, director general at BAE Systems of Brazil.
“We have an ambition to do more in Brazil in the future, together with our industrial partners here.”
