Belgium Awards €80M Contract for LEGUAN Bridge Layers on Czech Chassis
The Belgian Ministry of Defence has contracted KNDS Deutschland for eight LEGUAN bridge-laying systems mounted on Tatra Phoenix 10×10 wheeled chassis to enhance military engineering mobility. The package includes 17 26-metre bridge spans, specialist equipment and logistics support.
Belgium has signed a contract valued at approximately €80 million with KNDS Deutschland for the procurement of eight LEGUAN bridging systems mounted on Tatra Phoenix 10×10 wheeled platforms, according to defence procurement sources. The deal also covers 17 bridge spans of 26 metres each, associated specialist equipment and a logistics support package.
The systems are intended for the Belgian Land Component’s engineer units to provide rapid gap-crossing capability for heavy forces where fixed infrastructure is damaged or absent. The LEGUAN bridge system can be deployed for both 26-metre crossings or as two 14-metre spans, supporting vehicles with Military Load Class (MLC) 80 ratings, including main battle tanks and other heavy platforms.
Belgium selected the wheeled configuration after a competitive procurement process, with the Tatra Phoenix 10×10 chassis supplied by Czech manufacturer Tatra. The use of a commercial heavy-duty truck as a carrier is seen as offering easier logistical support and parts availability compared with legacy tracked platforms.
In addition to strengthening domestic engineering capabilities, the acquisition aligns with broader trends within European armed forces to enhance mobility support under high-intensity conditions. Variants of the LEGUAN system have been adopted by multiple NATO members, and recent deals for wheeled bridge layers illustrate sustained interest in flexible bridge laying solutions on non-tracked carriers.
The systems are expected to enter service with Belgian engineer formations in the coming years, contributing to the army’s ability to support maneuver forces and reinforce allied mobility initiatives across Europe.
