SAMIL 50

   The SAMIL 50 was based on the design of the Magirus-Deutz 192D12Al (now the IVECO Magirus 120-19 ANWM) but was considerably modified locally to make the vehicle considerably stronger and incorporate locally-available components. The SAMIL 50 is now one of the standard South African Defense Forces vehicles and is used in large numbers. Visually it resembles the Magirus Deutz original but there are many detail changes and the SAMIL 50 is able to remain operational for extended periods even under the harshest South African operational conditions.

   The SAMIL 50 is used as the basis for an extended range of vehicles, all of which can be fitted with an armored mine-proof cab. Removable bench seats in the rear can carry up to 40 troops and a virtual permanent fixture used in operational areas is a twin-axle trailer carrying up to 6 000 kg.

   Variants include a recovery vehicle, fuel and water tankers, and a series of box-bodied vehicles which include various types of mobile workshop and a mobile refrigerated pantry. There is also a mobile battery-charging vehicle. Telecommunication shelters may be carried on the cargo bed. An armored mine-protected ambulance was produced at one time but has been discontinued. The original SAMIL 50 has been replaced in production by the SAMIL 50 Mark 2 which has an enlarged bonnet to accommodate a new ADE 409N 9.5-litre 5 cylinder diesel engine.

   The Mark 2 incorporates more components of local origin, including a strengthened front axle. A 7-tone 4x2 version, the SAKOM 50, uses a SAMIL 20 cab and is employed on second-line duties.