In a significant boost to South Africa’s security capabilities and local defence industry, Paramount South Africa has handed over the first batch of its new Marshall internal security vehicles to the South African Police Service (SAPS). The ceremony took place at the SAPS Police College in Pretoria, with 12 vehicles officially received by Minister of Police Firoz Cachalia and National Police Commissioner Lt-Gen Fannie Masemola. These vehicles will be deployed by Public Order Policing units.
The Marshall is a proudly South African innovation, designed specifically to meet SAPS requirements. Building on Paramount’s three decades of global engineering expertise and the legacy of the Maverick internal security vehicle (ISV)—already adopted by police forces in Brazil, Ghana, Togo, Zambia, and elsewhere—the Marshall represents the next generation of internal security solutions.
Following extensive testing and refinement, SAPS commissioned an initial batch of 12 vehicles, marking the first phase of a staggered delivery programme. The production of the Marshall highlights the strength of South Africa’s defence and security industrial base, showcasing the country’s technological and engineering capabilities.
Lindiwe Tshabalala, CEO of Paramount South Africa, said:
“The Marshall is more than a vehicle—it is a symbol of our ability as a nation to design, engineer, and manufacture advanced solutions that directly address our country’s challenges. Working hand-in-hand with SAPS, we have created a platform that will protect our officers, enhance their capabilities, and safeguard our communities. Delivering this vehicle here at home demonstrates that South Africa’s defence industry remains a global leader—creating jobs, developing skills, and driving innovation in security solutions worldwide.”
Paramount has a long-standing record of supplying comprehensive internal security solutions across Africa, ranging from armoured vehicles and UAVs to aerial police support, reconnaissance systems, and protective equipment. The company’s expertise in 4×4, 6×6, and 8×8 armoured platforms underpins its ability to deliver advanced vehicles like the Marshall.
The Marshall offers STANAG 4569 Level 1 ballistic and blast protection, a monocoque hull, and a “smart floor” for rapid mission reconfiguration, supporting tasks from riot control to high-risk prisoner transport. With a kerb weight of 12,500 kg, payload of 2,500 kg, seating for eight personnel, and speeds up to 110 km/h, the vehicle also integrates a 360-degree camera system, public address system, and advanced sensor and vision technology.
Tshabalala added:
“Beyond supporting SAPS, the Marshall underscores South Africa’s position as a global exporter of advanced defence technologies. Paramount’s commitment to sovereign defence capability ensures that the design, engineering, and assembly of these vehicles directly benefits the local economy while delivering world-class solutions to more than 20 countries worldwide.”
