July 11, 2013 Source: Swiss Dept. of Defence
(Unofficial English translation by defense-aerospace.com)
After twenty years of using off-road vehicles made by Puch, the Swiss Army is expected to replace them with the Mercedes G-class. The acquisition will be submitted to Parliament under a specific weapons program.
The Mercedes-Benz range of vehicles was chosen because it is the most advantageous economically. Other reasons for the choice are that they are particularly robust and use proven technology, the reduction to essential components and ease of use for the troops.
As part of the evaluation by armasuisse – the Department’s competence center for acquisitions and technology - the Mercedes G won against three competitors. The chosen model chosen is already in use in many armies.
The new Swiss army all-terrain vehicles will be equipped with a 6-cylinder, 184 hp diesel engine and used for all types of transport of people and goods.
Parliament will take a decision in the context of a weapons program.