At the Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD) 2024 event, Denel made a significant impact by unveiling the integration of its RG41 eight-wheeled combat vehicle with a modified version of the G7 105 mm gun. This new combination, potentially named the RG41 GT7, is designed to provide robust fire support capabilities as a self-propelled artillery system for mechanized or motorized infantry units.
The RG41 platform’s origins trace back to the early stages of Project Hoefyster, where Denel proposed it as an alternative to the Finnish Patria eight-wheeled platform, which eventually became the South African Army’s Badger 8×8. According to Business Development Manager Isaac Karelse, the RG41 was designed and tested extensively, even undergoing successful summer trials in the UAE. However, shifting customer requirements led to the adoption of another Denel vehicle, the RG35.
As delays plagued the Patria/Badger system, Denel suggested the RG41 as a potential “drop-in” solution for Project Hoefyster, envisioning it as a future requirement. Despite the setbacks caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, Denel continued to develop the RG41, fitting it with remotely-operated turrets, including the Tactical Remote Turret (TRT) tested with 20 mm and 30 mm cannon variants.
Innovative Integration
The idea to mount a 105 mm gun on the RG41 platform emerged during shooting trials with the G6 155 mm self-propelled howitzer and the truck-mounted T5 system. The 105 mm gun, essentially a vehicle-mounted version of the G7 105 mm LEO towed howitzer, required technical modifications, resulting in the Denel GT7 gun.
The RG41 is a new generation wheeled armoured combat vehicle and a cost-effective solution for clients who require a combination of high mobility, protection and fire power.
The first version of the RG 41 was unveiled in 2010 and has built up a solid reputation in different environments across the world. Since then Denel Vehicle Systems has developed a range of outstanding variants that are suitable for the demands of modern warfare.
Denel then developed the T7/105 mm turret, weighing 3,750 kg. While the turret is currently manned during testing and trials, there are plans to eventually make it unmanned. The configuration showcased at AAD 2024 includes a vehicle commander, driver, gunner, and eight soldiers, comprising seven troops and a section commander.
Design and Protection
The RG41 features a V-shaped hull for landmine protection, a hardened armored shell for the crew, and an armor package that can be augmented with add-on armor. In counter-insurgency deployments, wire mesh can be added to protect against Rocket Propelled Grenades (RPGs) and other projectiles. Karelse emphasized that crew survivability was a key design consideration, ensuring that even if the vehicle is destroyed, the crew remains safe.
Capabilities and Future Prospects
The T7/G7 combination, still in the prototype phase, promises to be a highly mobile self-propelled artillery system, enhancing the firepower of mechanized battalions. The G7 gun boasts a range of 30 km, with ammunition lethality surpassing standard 155 mm high explosive shells. Developed by Rheinmetall Denel Munition (RDM), the ammunition includes high explosive, high explosive pre-formed fragmentation, smoke, illuminating, and other rounds. The standard projectile range is 24 km with boat tail and 30 km with base bleed, while the direct fire range spans from 500 to 2,000 meters.
Denel’s unveiling of the RG41 GT7 at AAD 2024 marks a significant advancement in self-propelled artillery systems, showcasing the company’s commitment to innovation and enhancing the capabilities of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF).
This year’s AAD sees Denel’s first appearance as a Department of Defence (DoD) entity, reporting to Defence and Military Veterans Minister Angie Motshekga since it’s strategic turnaround.
As the prototype undergoes further testing and development, it holds the potential to become a critical asset in modern mechanized warfare.