'Swiss Army knife' armoured Terrier tank takes a bow in Shropshire
This monstrous-looking machine can dig up land mines from eight metres away, smash rocks and drive through two-metre waves – and its capabilities are thanks in no small part to work carried out in Shropshire.
Affectionately known as the Swiss Army Knife of combat engineering vehicles, BAE Systems' upgraded Terrier has been fitted with new technologies and systems by its defence engineers.
The firm's plant at Telford was responsible for many of the upgrades, working in partnership with engineers in Newcastle-upon-Tyne to fit the new telescopic investigation arm and wading capabilities.
The Hadley Park site, which employs about 300 people and which is currently on the lookout for its latest intake of engineering apprentices, is responsible for physically making the upgrades.
That includes work on power packs, engines and transmission systems. It also carries out support after vehicle trials including painting, fixing dents and replacing anything that's damaged.
Telford also ensures the reliability of the vehicles, and has a tank track designed to let engineers carry out what is essentially a military-grade MoT.
Rory Breen, export sales manager for BAE Systems Land (UK) said: "The greater wading depth and surge protection will make Terrier even better suited for use in coastal or low-lying areas, where it can play an important role in disaster relief as well as combat situations.
"Along with the new telescopic arm and other attachments, Terrier remains the most technologically advanced and flexible combat engineer vehicle in the world. "
