Belgian defense manufacturer John Cockerill Defense will transform 113 military vehicles into medical evacuation platforms to bolster Ukraine’s frontline support and humanitarian operations. The deal includes 11 BV-206 tracked carriers built by BAE Systems and 102 Mercedes-Benz Unimog U4000 trucks, which will undergo extensive refurbishment before being transferred to Ukraine. The project reflects Belgium’s continued logistical and industrial backing for Kyiv as Russia’s invasion persists.
The modification effort will be carried out in partnership with Mercedes-Benz and Lambert Group, responsible for supplying transmissions, tires, and additional systems. While Cockerill has previously overhauled BV-206 units and M113 armored carriers for Ukraine in 2023–2024, this marks its first adaptation of the Unimog platform. Deliveries are scheduled to begin by the end of 2025, with remaining units arriving in early 2026. The contract, worth several tens of millions of euros, also supports operations at Cockerill’s Aubange site, preserving local defense industry jobs.
With annual revenues surpassing $1.4 billion, Cockerill is pushing for faster procurement approvals from the Belgian government to meet Ukraine’s urgent defense timelines. The project enhances Belgium’s role as a key contributor to European defense cooperation and humanitarian logistics.
The BAE Systems BV-206 is a highly versatile 7-meter-long tracked vehicle, capable of transporting up to 17 personnel or 2.25 tons of equipment, with options for armament such as machine guns or mortar launchers. It is powered by a 132-horsepower Ford Cologne V6 engine, offering a 65 km/h top speed and 330 km range. The Mercedes Unimog U4000, on the other hand, is a 6-meter, 7-passenger off-road truck boasting a 3,000-kg payload and a 222-horsepower Euro 5 engine, achieving 90 km/h on rugged terrain — both ideal candidates for conversion into frontline ambulances.
