The Australian Defence Force (ADF) has placed an order for a fleet of Polaris DAGOR (Deployable Advanced Ground Off-Road) vehicles as part of a $22 million contract.
The exact number of vehicles is not disclosed.
But, according to the Drive, the order includes three different variants: a transport model for tactical mobility, an expeditionary reconnaissance version designed for stealth in harsh conditions, and a cargo variant with increased load capacity by removing the rear seats.
The Polaris DAGOR is designed for special operations, seating up to nine occupants and capable of carrying a payload of up to 1814kg.
Although details of the powertrain remain unspecified, Polaris has stated that the vehicle will feature a commercial turbo-diesel engine that can run on diesel or jet fuel. The DAGOR boasts a top speed of 120 km/h and a range of 805 kilometers.
The ADF has not specified exactly how these off-road vehicles will be deployed, but it is expected that they will be used by reconnaissance units, special forces such as the Special Air Service Regiment (SASR), and other ground-based forces like the Royal Australian Air Force's (RAAF) Airfield Defence Guard.
Polaris DAGOR vehicles have been in testing with Australian special operations forces since 2015, according to reports from Janes, which also notes that other users include the US Joint Special Operations Command, UK Special Forces, and Canadian Special Operations Forces Command.
The DAGOR can be transported by a variety of aircraft, including the CH-47, C-17, and C-130, and is capable of being airdropped or carried under helicopters using slings. The ADF contract covers vehicles, accessories, spare parts, training for drivers and maintenance crews, and ongoing local product support.
