Pioneering Cutting-Edge Innovations in Defence Industry

1) With over 70,000 systems in operation, Milkor has become a global leader in supplying the defence industry with innovative solutions. Could you please share the inspiring journey of the company? 

Since its inception, Milkor has been at the forefront of innovation in the defence industry, consistently delivering reliable solutions with versatile applications. Our systems remain uncompromised, ensuring operational success in diverse circumstances, weather conditions, and missions. This commitment to excellence has led to the widespread adoption of our products, now deployed in over 65 countries across the globe.

2) The Milkor vehicle range is built on decades of operational experience. Could you talk about the operations in the defence land sector? 

Our Land Systems division has evolved into a dynamic development powerhouse. Recognising the diverse needs of our international client base, we offer a spectrum of solutions. From robust and cost-effective options to tailor-made, modular land equipment designed for specific operations, we ensure a comprehensive range of systems.

Looking ahead to later this year, we are excited to announce the upcoming launch of two new vehicle ranges. The first is an agile technical vehicle tailored for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance purposes. The second is a STANAG level 4 system, designed to deliver ultimate protection and operational advantage to our clients. These additions further demonstrate our commitment to innovation and meeting the evolving demands of the defense landscape.

3) Being one of the foremost 40mm grenade launcher manufacturers globally, how do you keep innovating the technology?

As our company name is synonymous with 40mm technology, we bear the responsibility of continually innovating and enhancing our weapon range. The SuperSix, a cornerstone of our offerings, has undergone meticulous refinement, ensuring robustness and reliability based on valuable feedback from our satisfied customers over the decades. Our Single Shot Stopper, developed for both military and law enforcement applications, epitomises utilitarian effectiveness. The Milkor Underbarrel Grenade Launcher (UBGL) stands out with a unique trigger mechanism, reducing weight and size while enhancing operational safety. Additionally, we are diligently working on integrating our Automatic Grenade Launcher into our company’s esteemed pedigree, which spans an impressive 43 years of fostering innovation and excellence.

4) Could you share the latest product range suited for any military, police, and anti-riot use from Milkor?

Recognizing the critical impact of internal affairs on a country’s security, we have invested significant research and development resources in creating products tailored for law enforcement. A standout example is our Multiple Anti-Riot launcher (MAR), designed to be both lightweight and reliable for crowd dispersal during civil unrest. With capabilities mirroring our flagship launcher, the SuperSix, the MAR can fire 6 shots within 3 seconds while being nearly half the weight due to lower cartridge pressures. Additionally, our forthcoming agile vehicle, soon to be announced, promises to be an excellent choice for police and border protection services. Furthermore, our latest maritime patrol vessel, the Milkor Commander, emerges as a superior option for coastal surveillance, emergency response, and interdiction scenarios.

The Milkor Commander is a versatile maritime vessel, equipped with high speed, long-range capabilities, and a spacious deck accommodating a crew of 10. With superior payload capacity, it adapts seamlessly to roles such as maritime patrol, high-speed interception, infrastructure monitoring, surveillance, and search and rescue. Powered by waterjet propulsion, it offers exceptional maneuverability and high-speed cruise performance. The Commander’s low transom and forward visibility facilitate an easy target approach, while its excellent seakeeping allows operation in up to 4m swells. These features collectively enable the Commander to swiftly reach mission areas, perform effectively, and ensure a safe return.

5) Milkor offers a wide range of products for navies and air forces. What are the capabilities of Milkor in Sea and Air segments?

Our company’s commitment to exceptional standards is evident in the achievements of our Naval Defense Solution office, which boasts a dedicated shipyard in the UAE, and our Integrated Systems office in Cape Town, responsible for developing and producing the largest drone in Africa.

In the realm of naval defence, our division introduced the Milkor Inshore Patrol Craft (IPC), setting new standards in endurance and practicality. This commitment to quality extends to the Milkor Commander, with ongoing efforts to embed the same level of excellence. Moreover, we are actively developing a range of Unmanned Surface Vessels to meet the enduring responsibility of our clients in safeguarding their shores. The NDS division provides research, design, fabrication and integration of aluminium and composite vessels.

Within the aerospace domain, our dedication to innovation is relentless. We explore solutions such as Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL) systems, Loitering Munitions, and comprehensive system integration, all geared towards maintaining our position at the forefront of defence technology.

6) How strong is Milkor’s export business? Could you elaborate?

Our group has strategically expanded its presence to encompass five international offices worldwide, each equipped with dedicated teams responsible for cultivating relationships in diverse regions. Throughout the year, a significant portion of our time is devoted to engaging with clients abroad, leading to the establishment of excellent relationships within the sector.

A noteworthy aspect of our business is the substantial growth in our export sales. With each passing year, the quantity of our exports experiences significant expansion, reflecting the increasing demand for our products and services on the global stage. This trend underscores our continued success and effectiveness in the international market.

7) How do you look at the World Defense Show 2024? What can we expect from Milkor at the expo?

The participation in WDS reflects the immense potential within the defence sector, particularly in the region and notably in Saudi Arabia. Our decision to exhibit again in 2024 underscores our unwavering commitment to actively contribute to the ongoing industry growth in the Kingdom, aligning with the objectives outlined in Vision2030.

The same level of dedication and seriousness that marked our engagement in 2022 continues to be the driving force behind our efforts in 2024. As we assess the evolving landscape, it is evident that this commitment is part of a sustained, long-term trend, highlighting our enduring dedication to playing a pivotal role in the success of Vision2030 and the broader defence sector in the region.

8) Could you share the expansion plans of Milkor in Saudi Arabia? How do you rely on emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence in your R&D?

Milkor‘s KSA subsidiary has been actively fostering collaboration within the broader Saudi Defence Industry, engaging with both industry stakeholders and end-users. Our primary objective is to establish a robust foundation for sales while delivering the same level of defense solution excellence as our parent entity. This encompasses not only our established strengths but also extends to cutting-edge domains like cybersecurity and specialised electronics, responding to the considerable demand for such solutions in Saudi Arabia.

Recognising the dynamic nature of the defence landscape, we are committed to staying at the forefront of innovation. Our proactive approach involves continuous research and consideration of emerging technologies, ensuring that our clients have access to the latest and most advanced tools to effectively accomplish their missions, including the integration of artificial intelligence. This dedication underscores our commitment to providing state-of-the-art solutions in the ever-evolving defence sector.