Paramount Eyes New Production Facilities Around Africa

South African defense firm Paramount Group says it expects to sign agreements with four African nations this year to set up defense equipment production facilities, reports Reuters. 

The deals are likely to involve the company acting as a majority shareholder in a joint venture with the government, Paramount founder and chief Ivor Ichikowitz said on Sunday. 

By implementing long-term capacity building programs, Paramount would help build defense industries in those countries, he said. 

Ichikowitz said the agreements could cover land vehicles, aircraft, ships and other weapon platforms. 

He declined to identify the countries involved in the potential deals.

On Tuesday, Paramount announced a US$2.7 million contract with the United Arab Emirates for four Mbombe 4 × 4 armored personnel carriers, reported Defence Web (South Africa). 

Unveiled on Saturday, the Mbombe offers high levels of ballistic and mine protection and is designed for operations in the Middle East. 

It was unclear if the Mbombes are intended for evaluation or a specialized role. They are expected to enter service in the next six months.