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RG-12
RG-12
RG-12
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Carabinieri RG-12 in Florence, Italy.

Key Information

The RG-12 (nicknamed 'Nyala') is a multi-purpose armoured personnel carrier.[1][2] It has anti-personnel mine, grenade, fire bomb and small arms fire protection that is manufactured by Land Systems OMC (a business unit of BAE Systems) of South Africa, with over 700 being in service globally in more than eight countries.

Originally designed as a police public order vehicle for both urban and rural operations, the RG-12 has been developed to be used in many roles, including as routine internal security vehicle, military APC, bullion carrier, bulk diamond carrier and security vehicle on gold and platinum mines.

Production history

[edit]

Production started in 1990 by TFM's Defence and Security Division. By 1997, when it was taken over by Reunert Defence OMC, almost 500 were built. When the units where delivered to Dubai's Police 720 units had been built with BAE land systems the largest producer, Drakensberg Truck Manufacturers also produce and some Iveco branded units can be seen with some slight variations on mirrors and spare wheel configuration.

Variants

[edit]
  • RG-12 Mk1 - original variant with an ADE 366T diesel engine
  • RG-12 CAT - variant fitted with a Caterpillar engine (Mercedes-Benz Iveco engines are fitted to the standard RG-12).
  • RG-12 Command Vehicle - variant specifically developed for a user in the Middle East.
  • RG-12 Mk2 - improved version with an auxiliary power unit driven air conditioning system for effective climate regulation in extreme conditions, provision of a central tyre inflation system enhancing mobility by allowing inflation or deflation of the tyres according to terrain requirements, an anti-skid braking system and various ergonomic modifications to ensure crew comfort.

In North American service, the RG-12 is often fitted with the Mobile Adjustable Ramp System (MARS) made by Patriot3, Inc. out of Fredericksburg, Virginia, for use in aircraft anti-hijack and forced building entry situations. The MARS makes simultaneous multi-storey entry possible and can be used in elevated assaults. The system is fitted onto the roof of the RG-12 and has two hydraulically operated ramps that can move independently.

  • IS-V - this internal security from Otokar (Turkey) is very similar to the RG-12.

Operators

[edit]
KFOR-MSU Carabinieri with two RG-12s in Kosovo, during an exercise.

Notable appearances in media

[edit]

In the film Avengers: Age of Ultron some RG-12 are used by the South African Police Service in the fight against Hulk.

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

RG-12

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
The RG-12, also known as the , is a multi-purpose 4×4 armored personnel carrier developed in for internal security, public order policing, and tactical operations, featuring a steel hull that provides protection against small arms fire up to 7.62 mm ball, hand grenades, firebombs, and anti-personnel mines while carrying a crew of 2 plus up to 10 personnel. Originally produced starting in 1990 by the Defence and Security Division of TFM (Truck Factory Manufacturers), the RG-12 entered initial operational capability in 1994 and saw production shift to Reunert Defence OMC by 1997, with Land Systems OMC (formerly Vehicle Systems) taking over subsequent manufacturing and upgrades. Over 700 units have been built, with variants including the Mk1 (standard model), Mk2 (introduced in 2000 with improved , , central tire inflation, and anti-skid brakes), Mk4 (launched in 2008 with enhanced armor and mobility), and specialized configurations such as command vehicles, ambulances, transports, and platforms equipped with gas mask storage, rifle housing, and accommodations. Key specifications include a gross vehicle mass of 10,400–12,500 kg, dimensions of approximately 5.8–6.16 m in length, 2.3–2.415 m in width, and 2.8–3.7 m in (depending on configuration), powered by a 100 kW ADE 366 (with options for , , or engines) achieving a top speed of 100 km/h, 50% gradeability, and 322–338 mm ground clearance for superior on- and off-road mobility via 4×4 drive, semi-elliptic leaf suspension, and optional run-flat tires. The 's ballistic-resistant armored glass, metal mesh defenses, and front-mounted scraper enhance survivability in urban and rural environments, while features like power-assisted steering, , and roof-mounted spotlights support extended operations. Primarily operated by the South African Police Service (with around 500 units, plus 12 more acquired in October 2025), the RG-12 has been exported to at least 14 countries, including ( forces), the ( Police with 16 units), , Côte d'Ivoire (3 units), and (4 units), where it serves in roles ranging from deployments and crowd control to military patrols and VIP protection. Its versatility, low maintenance costs (historical unit cost approximately $357,000 based on a 2005 contract), and proven reliability in high-threat scenarios have made it a staple for global security forces, with refurbished ex- models available for lease to private security firms as of 2024.

Design and specifications

Protection features

The RG-12 features a hull constructed from all-steel welded armor. This design provides inherent resistance to blasts from anti-personnel mines and improvised devices through its robust, integrated and reinforced , enhancing overall in threat environments by distributing impact forces across the vehicle's frame and minimizing penetration risks from ground-based explosions. The vehicle offers protection against small arms fire, specifically rated to withstand 7.62 mm × 51 mm ball ammunition and 5.56 mm × 45 mm ball rounds, as well as hand grenades and fire bombs. Ballistic-resistant armored glass windows match the hull's protection level, supplemented by metal mesh screens to prevent grenade or incendiary attacks on vulnerable areas like lights and vision ports. These features position the RG-12 as an effective platform for personnel in high-risk internal security operations. Accommodating a crew of two plus up to 10 passengers, the RG-12 includes integrated loopholes beneath the side windows and in the roof hatches, enabling secure firing positions for defensive engagements without exposing occupants. Defensive aids further support operations, including a front-mounted pneumatically operated scraper to clear obstacles or debris in contaminated areas, and multiple roof-mounted spotlights for illumination during low-visibility scenarios.

Mobility and performance

The RG-12 employs an , delivering a maximum power output of 100 kW at 2800 rpm and a maximum of 408 Nm at 1400 rpm (turbo-charged option available), which provides reliable propulsion for both urban and off-road operations. This engine is paired with a 4x4 configuration, featuring a manual gearbox, a 2-speed transfer box for enhanced low-speed control, power-assisted steering for precise handling, and inserts on 335/80 R20 tyres to maintain mobility even after punctures. The vehicle's suspension system utilizes semi-elliptic leaf springs combined with double-acting hydraulic shock absorbers, offering robust support for its kerb mass of 7420 kg and gross vehicle mass of up to 10400 kg while absorbing impacts across varied terrains. With overall dimensions of 6160 mm in length, 2415 mm in width, 2814 mm in height, and a of 3063 mm, the RG-12 achieves a ground clearance of 338 mm, enabling effective navigation in rough environments. Key performance attributes include a maximum gradeability of 50° in low range, an approach angle of 32°, and a departure angle of 30°, which collectively ensure superior off-road maneuverability and stability in hostile or uneven areas without compromising urban agility. These features allow the vehicle to operate effectively in diverse operational scenarios, from patrolling city streets to traversing rugged landscapes.

Development and production

Historical origins

The development of the RG-12 armored vehicle originated in 1990 as a private initiative by TFM's Defence and Security Division, a South African specializing in , to meet the escalating demands for enhanced order management during the country's turbulent transition from apartheid. This period, marked by intense and widespread unrest from 1990 to 1994, saw over 14,000 deaths from politically motivated incidents, necessitating robust tools for police to handle riots, protests, and internal security operations without escalating conflicts. The RG-12 was conceived primarily for South African Service use, prioritizing protection against small arms fire, anti-personnel mines, grenades, and firebombs—threats common in urban disturbances and low-intensity civil unrest. Early design efforts drew from established South African armored vehicle traditions, particularly the mine-resistant concepts pioneered in vehicles like the , which had been adapted for internal security roles since the 1980s. TFM engineers focused on a lightweight, multi-purpose platform suitable for urban environments, incorporating features such as optional riot control equipment, sirens, public address systems, and a barricade removal device to support tactical police interventions, including operations and prisoner transport. The first prototypes were completed and tested in early 1990, validating the vehicle's mobility and protective capabilities in simulated urban and low-threat conflict scenarios, which paved the way for production to commence later that year. These tests emphasized the RG-12's role in de-escalating public order situations amid the militarized policing environment of the era, where forces like the Internal Stability Division relied on armored assets to maintain control. By 1997, as part of broader industry consolidations in post-apartheid , TFM was acquired by Reumech OMC (a division of Reunert Limited), which assumed primary responsibility for the RG-12's ongoing development and refinement. This transition ensured continuity in the vehicle's evolution while aligning it with emerging standards for police and tactical applications, building on the foundational work established in the early 1990s.

Production history

Following the initial development phase, production continued under Reunert Defence OMC after 1997, with involvement from Truck Manufacturers in manufacturing aspects such as the Mk2 variant. In 2004, following the acquisition of Alvis OMC by , production shifted to BAE Land Systems OMC, supporting continued output and evolution through variants like the Mk2 and Mk4 to meet evolving requirements. By the time of the BAE acquisition in 2004, production had already exceeded 500 units, and subsequent builds under BAE Land Systems OMC contributed to a global total of 830 RG-12 vehicles produced. In 2015, sold to , after which Vehicle Systems assumed responsibility for manufacturing, upgrades, and support. Export production became a key focus, with adaptations for international markets to comply with regional standards, such as incorporating engines and components for Italian Carabinieri orders in the early 2000s. These adaptations ensured compatibility with local and operational needs, facilitating sales to law enforcement and security forces in at least 14 countries worldwide, including , , and the . Refurbishment programs have sustained the fleet, particularly for vehicles originally supplied to the (SAPS). Companies like TIBS Transport specialize in ex-SAPS RG-12s (also known as ), upgrading armor, mobility systems, and public order equipment to extend and meet modern standards. As of 2025, the RG-12 is produced and supported by Vehicle Systems, with emphasis on ongoing refurbishments and upgrades such as the Mk6 variant (introduced around 2018) to maintain operational readiness; these vehicles continue to serve in at least 14 countries worldwide for policing and security roles.

Variants

Standard variants

The standard variants of the RG-12 armored vehicle encompass the core production models, primarily distinguished by their engine choices and foundational configurations designed for general public order and security roles. The RG-12 Mk1 represents the original model, introduced in 1994 and powered by an ADE 366T developing approximately 170 hp (125 kW), paired with a in its basic setup. This variant features a straightforward configuration without advanced climate control, prioritizing simplicity and cost-effectiveness for baseline operations. The RG-12 Mk4, launched in 2008, features enhanced armor protection and improved mobility through a more powerful engine with increased torque, upgraded axles with disc brakes, and overall refinements to the drivetrain for better performance in high-threat environments. The RG-12 CAT variant introduces an upgraded diesel engine of comparable power output, selected for enhanced reliability in demanding environments such as hot climates, while retaining the overall hull and 4x4 drivetrain of the Mk1. or engines are typically fitted to non-CAT standard models for similar performance. Across these standard variants, an option is offered to improve drivability and operator ease, particularly in urban or varied terrain settings, without altering the vehicle's core protective envelope. All standard RG-12 models maintain a base and configuration of 2 ( and ) + 6 to 10 personnel depending on configuration, enabling transport of a small squad alongside essential equipment, supported by standard arming ports that permit secure firing of from inside the protected cabin.

Specialized configurations

The RG-12 Mk2 configuration introduces several enhancements over the base model to support extended operational durations in demanding environments. It features an auxiliary power unit-driven air conditioning system for effective climate regulation, an updated to improve traction and on diverse terrains, and ergonomic improvements including seating adjustments and reduced vibration for enhanced crew comfort during prolonged missions. An anti-skid braking system is also integrated to bolster vehicle control under adverse conditions. These upgrades maintain the vehicle's core protection and mobility while prioritizing operator endurance. The RG-12 Command Vehicle serves as an export-oriented variant tailored for Middle Eastern operators, incorporating specialized communication arrays such as satellite links and encrypted radios, along with internal command consoles, map displays, and expanded power generation for on-the-move coordination. This setup converts the standard personnel carrier into a compact mobile headquarters, enabling sharing and oversight for public order or teams without compromising armor integrity. Over 700 RG-12 units, including command variants, have been delivered globally, with notable adoption in regions requiring robust C2 capabilities. The North American adaptation of the RG-12 prominently integrates the Mobile Adjustable Ramp System (MARS), a roof-mounted hydraulic apparatus developed by Patriot3, Inc., which deploys dual independent ramps for accessing elevated structures up to multiple stories. This system facilitates tactical rescue, anti-hijacking, and breaching operations by allowing or to gain entry points without ladders or external support. The MARS setup weighs under the vehicle's payload limit, preserving its 4x4 mobility for rapid deployment. Additional specialized adaptations of the RG-12 cater to niche police and needs, including variants for , cash-in-transit and bullion carrier configurations for secure transport of valuables, platforms equipped with storage, rifle housing, and accommodations, as well as roof-mounted remote weapon stations that accommodate machine guns up to 12.7 mm caliber for defensive overwatch and extended cargo variants with reinforced rear compartments. These modifications leverage the vehicle's modular hull, enabling quick role swaps while adhering to STANAG protection standards.

Operators

Domestic use

The RG-12, known domestically as the , serves as the primary armored vehicle for the (SAPS), where it has been employed for public order maintenance and anti-riot operations since its production began in 1990. Originally designed specifically for the needs of the (predecessor to SAPS), the vehicle was developed by TFM (later acquired by Reumech OMC) to provide protected mobility in urban and rural policing scenarios, with initial production focused on equipping police units for and internal security duties. By the mid-1990s, SAPS had integrated the RG-12 into its operational fleet, marking it as a cornerstone of domestic capabilities during a period of heightened civil unrest. Within SAPS, the RG-12 has been particularly integrated into specialized units such as the Special Task Force (STF), SAPS's elite SWAT-equivalent for high-risk operations. These units utilize the vehicle for tactical interventions, including high-risk arrests, hostage rescues, and advanced in volatile environments, leveraging its for rapid configuration with non-lethal equipment like water cannons and dispensers. The vehicle's capacity to carry up to 10 personnel, combined with its STANAG Level 1 ballistic and mine protection, enables STF teams to conduct operations in areas prone to fire or improvised explosives, enhancing officer safety during urban deployments. Domestic of the RG-12 by SAPS has occurred through phased orders, with an estimated fleet size of around 500 units in service across as of recent assessments. Early contracts in the 1990s supported initial rollout, followed by a notable 2005 order for 30 vehicles valued at $10.7 million to bolster police resources. In 2025, SAPS procured an additional 12 new units as part of a fleet modernization initiative to support specialized crime-fighting efforts, including responses to and public disturbances. To sustain operational readiness amid aging inventory, ex-SAPS RG-12 units undergo regular refurbishment, with specialized firms remanufacturing vehicles to meet current standards for continued domestic service as of 2025. These refurbishments include upgrades to engines, armor plating, and electronics, ensuring the vehicles remain viable for SAPS duties without full replacement. This approach has extended the service life of hundreds of units, maintaining a robust domestic presence for public order roles.

International operators

The RG-12 has been acquired by the , the country's police force, for use in public order maintenance and border security operations. In 2005, placed a $10 million order for 30 RG-12 vehicles through a partnership between South Africa's and Defence Vehicles, marking one of the early significant export deals for the platform. Beyond these, the RG-12 serves police and in at least 14 countries worldwide, including , Côte d'Ivoire (3 units), and (4 units). Examples include the Dubai Police in the , which operates 16 RG-12 vehicles for internal security. Acquisitions have occurred through various methods, including direct purchases from the manufacturer, such as the Italian order, and second-hand transactions involving refurbished ex-South African Police Service (SAPS) vehicles. Some exports feature specialized configurations, like the command variant adapted for Middle Eastern operators. Over 700 units have been delivered globally via these channels.

Operational history

Public order roles

The RG-12 serves primarily as a public order policing vehicle, designed for crowd dispersal, barricade breaches, and officer protection during protests and civil unrest. Its 4x4 armored hull provides protection against fire, hand grenades, and firebombs, enabling up to 12 fully equipped officers to operate from within a secure, air-conditioned interior while engaging threats through firing ports or optional weapon stations. This configuration allows for effective deployment in volatile scenarios, where the vehicle can maneuver through urban obstacles and maintain operational continuity under attack. In urban environments, the RG-12 supports specialized policing tasks, including interventions, cash-in-transit , and high-risk arrests. Adapted for tactical response, it facilitates rapid insertion of teams into high-threat areas, such as securing perimeters during armed standoffs or escorting valuable transports against attempts. Its mine-resistant underbody further enhances survivability in scenarios involving improvised explosives common to urban unrest. Over 700 units have been produced since 1994, with a significant portion dedicated to these non-combat roles worldwide. The (SAPS) employs the RG-12 in domestic operations, including riot suppression in townships where civil disturbances often involve grenade and firebomb threats; its proven resilience in such environments has made it a staple for maintaining order in high-density urban settings. Similarly, the , which acquired 30 RG-12 public-order vehicles in 2005, integrates them into crowd management during public demonstrations, leveraging the vehicle's mobility and defensive capabilities to de-escalate tensions without direct engagement. These applications underscore the RG-12's role in enabling to uphold public safety amid escalating unrest, with its design prioritizing officer protection and tactical flexibility.

Military deployments

The RG-12 has been deployed in as part of the NATO-led (KFOR) mission, primarily by the Italian Carabinieri's (MSU) for patrol and stabilization duties. The MSU, which integrates the RG-12 into its fleet, was first deployed to in September 1999 to support operations following the intervention. The vehicle was selected by the Italian Carabinieri in mid-2004 after trials, enabling its integration into KFOR activities for enhanced mobility in rugged terrain and urban environments. Italian units, operating as paramilitary forces within KFOR's MSU, have utilized the RG-12 in conflict zones such as for border security and stabilization patrols. These deployments emphasize the vehicle's role in multinational operations, where it supports and rapid response in low-threat environments. In 2019, KFOR-MSU conducted crowd and exercises in using RG-12 vehicles, demonstrating their ongoing utility in maintaining operational readiness. The RG-12's protection features have undergone testing in low-intensity scenarios, including exposure to fire, with reports indicating no major vehicle losses in these contexts. Adaptations for roles have facilitated its use in multinational forces, such as mounting additional equipment for enhanced surveillance during patrols.

Appearances in media

Film and television

The RG-12 armored personnel carrier features prominently in the 2015 Marvel Cinematic Universe film Avengers: Age of Ultron, directed by , where it serves as vehicles for the (SAPS) during the intense Johannesburg chase and confrontation sequences involving the Hulk's rampage. These depictions emphasize the RG-12's capabilities in urban pursuit scenarios, as SAPS units deploy the armored vehicles to respond to the escalating chaos in the city's streets. The film's portrayal underscores the vehicle's visual accuracy, with the RG-12s outfitted in authentic SAPS livery, including blue-and-white markings typical of South African public order policing. Armored features such as the reinforced hull and mine-resistant underbody are highlighted amid high-speed action and collisions, illustrating its robustness in simulated and emergency response environments. Filming for these sequences took place in in February 2014.

Other media

The RG-12 armored vehicle has appeared in video games through community-created modifications, notably in (2008), where it is featured as a modded vehicle to enhance realism in urban gameplay scenarios. Detailed 3D models of the RG-12, often nicknamed the , are available for download and use in military simulations and enthusiast communities, supporting applications such as virtual training exercises or hobbyist recreations. These models, typically in formats like STL for or rendering software compatibility, allow users to replicate the vehicle's design for educational or modeling purposes. The RG-12 is documented in specialized literature on South African armored vehicles, with a focus on its development and role in public order operations. For instance, the book South African Armoured Fighting Vehicles: A History of Innovation and Excellence, 1960-2020 provides an in-depth examination of the vehicle's engineering and police heritage within the broader context of South African military innovations. Promotional and technical videos, such as those produced by manufacturer BAE Systems Land Systems South Africa, further illustrate its features in documentary-style formats emphasizing operational capabilities.

References

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  6. https://iol.co.za/news/crime-and-courts/2025-10-03-saps-adds-two-airbus-helicopters-12-nyalas-to-strengthen-national-security/
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  9. https://omalley.nelsonmandela.org/index.php/site/q/03lv02167/04lv02264/05lv02335/06lv02357/07lv02372/08lv02379.htm
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  13. https://armouredvehicles.co.za/nyala/
  14. https://defenceweb.co.za/land/land-land/busy-future-for-denel-vehicle-systems/
  15. https://www.defensemirror.com/news/5475/RG12_Mk4_Vehicle_on_Display_at_IDEX
  16. https://model-copy.info/article_info.php?language=en&articles_id=2377
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  18. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BR-t5o1PNIQ
  19. https://sapstf.org/armoured-vehicles
  20. https://centralnews.co.za/saps-bolsters-fight-against-violent-crime-with-new-airbus-helicopters-and-nyala-armoured-vehicles-in-major-fleet-upgrade/
  21. https://www.globalsecurity.org/military/world/rsa/mamba.htm
  22. https://www.news24.com/business/Companies/Italy-buys-30-SA-armoured-cars-20050524
  23. https://www.deagel.com/news/n000004960
  24. https://digitallibrary.un.org/record/359235/files/S_1999_1185-EN.pdf
  25. http://www.army-guide.com/eng/product1094.html
  26. https://europeanleadershipnetwork.org/commentary/kosovo-more-than-a-local-flare-up/
  27. https://www.imcdb.org/v849095.html
  28. https://www.imcdb.org/m2395427.html
  29. https://www.businessday.co.za/bd/life/arts-and-entertainment/2015-04-21-filming-avengers-action-sequence-in-joburg-gives-city-priceless-exposure/
  30. https://www.gtaall.com/gta-4/cars/19169-rg-12-nyala-south-african-police-service.html
  31. https://cults3d.com/en/3d-model/game/rg-12-nyala
  32. https://www.yeggi.com/q/mrap%2Bnyala/
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  34. https://www.casematepublishers.com/9781913336257/south-african-armoured-fighting-vehicles/
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