BAE Systems has received a contract to build 32 armoured personnel carrier variant of the BvS10 military all-terrain vehicles for the Austrian Army.

To be carried out under a government-to-government arrangement with Sweden, the contract will benefit Austria's mission in the European Union Mountain Training Warfare Initiative (EU MTI) that aims to enhance military effectiveness in mountainous terrains.

The BvS10 was selected by the Swedish Government in an open international competition.

BAE Systems Hägglunds managing director Tommy Gustafsson-Rask said: "This investment provides the Austrian Army with a very capable and robust vehicle, and enhances our global position as a leading supplier of military vehicles.

"Further, this contract is a result of a close and unique cooperation between the Swedish and Austrian Governments and BAE Systems.

"This contract is a result of a close and unique cooperation between the Swedish and Austrian Governments and BAE Systems."

The vehicles will be manufactured at BAE Systems Hägglunds in Örnsköldsvik, Sweden, with deliveries beginning in the second half of next year, and concluding in 2019.

A further development of the Bv206S armoured vehicle, the BvS10s feature enhanced crew ergonomics, greater internal volume and advanced protection.

The BvS10 has been designed to operate in challenging terrain to deliver personnel or cargo in combat and disaster relief scenarios, and can accommodate changing mission requirements.

Operated by France, the Netherlands, Sweden and the UK, the BvS10 has been deployed to Afghanistan, Central Africa, the Balkans, and the Middle East. More than 10,000 vehicles have so far been sold to more than 40 countries.

Image: The BvS10 is a highly manoeuvrable armoured vehicle. Photo: courtesy of BAE Systems.