Currently exclusive to the new Ford Ranger built in Silverton, Pretoria, the B6 Stopgun V3.0 armouring package recently launched by local armoured products manufacturer SVI Engineering is set to be expanded to the closely related Volkswagen Amarok in the future.

Like the Stopgun V2.0 package for the previous-generation Ranger, the upgraded V3.0 kit is a cost-effective, semi-discreet B6 armouring option that offers protection against assault rifles, including AK47, R1 and R5. Aimed at South Africa’s security industry, the armouring is ideal for combating general crime, escorting valuables in transit or for use on mining patrols, says SVI.

“While our Stopgun V2.0 package has established itself as an industry leader when it comes to assault-rifle protection in the security and mining sectors, the new V3.0 kit offers enhanced overall sleekness and useability. At SVI, we strive for continuous improvement and this upgrade for the Ranger is the latest proof of that enduring philosophy,” says SVI business development director Nicol Louw.

Compared with the Stopgun V2.0 package, the chief differentiator of the V3.0 package is that the flat armoured glass (complete with gunports) has been shifted inwards to allow the standard side windows to remain in place.

As a result, the package is considerably more discreet from the outside, while wind noise is also noticeably reduced. Buyers seeking even more discretion can further upgrade from the cost-effective split windscreen to an optional curved item, explains SVI.

As with the company’s other B6-rated security kits, the Stopgun V3.0 package comprises 40 mm ballistic glass and 5 mm to 6 mm armoured steel plates integrated into the occupant cell. Areas covered include all pillars, all doors, the roof, the rear section, partial firewall, the battery and the ABS unit, while uprated door hinges and a front suspension upgrade are included in the price. The armouring solution is available for all three Ranger body styles – single cab, super cab and double cab.  

As SVI has Qualified Vehicle Modifier status with Ford, the new Stopgun V3.0 kit can be ordered through any Blue Oval dealership in South Africa. The bakkie’s standard manufacturer warranty and any selected service or maintenance plan remains fully intact, and the complete package, including the purchase price of the base vehicle and the cost of the armour selected, can be financed by Ford Credit.

SVI also offers Ford-approved concealed 360-degree armoured protection across the Ranger line-up. Level B4 Discreet provides customers with bullet-resistant protection against handguns up to .44 Magnum and is the typical anti-hijack solution that also offers defence against brick-throwing and other hand-held projectiles, explains SVI.

The B4 package comprises 21 mm armoured glass in combination with carefully shaped Kevlar sheets for the body. It is discreet and lightweight with minimal impact on vehicle acceleration, fuel consumption and dynamic performance, adds the company.

Meanwhile, Level B6 Discreet represents the highest grade of civilian armour allowed in South Africa without a special permit. Designed for individuals requiring the ultimate level of protection, B6 protects against ammunition fired by assault rifles up to 7.62x51 mm. This package further comprises 38 mm armoured glass and special armoured steel plates.

The only Ranger derivative not suitable for B6 armour is the Raptor (which is, however, available in Level B4 Discreet), owing to its bespoke FOX suspension set-up and model-specific payload capability, advises SVI.

The Bashewa-based armouring specialist’s Stopgun offering also includes B4+ Stopgun V2.0 Lite for the Toyota Hilux, B6 Stopgun V2.0 for the Hilux, Nissan Navara and the previous-gen Ranger, B6 Stopgun V2.0 Plus for the Toyota Land Cruiser 79 and a version specific to the Hino 500 series of trucks.