Ineos Automotive expands into defence sector with landmark European orders

The Italian Army and the Austrian Government have each awarded substantial contracts for the supply of Ineos Grenadiers, representing the first orders from sovereign defence forces for the brand.

The Grenadier became the vehicle of choice for the Italian Army, making Italy the first NATO country to place a sizable order for its military. Deliveries will commence from early 2027.

Separately, an Austrian Government tender was won by Valentin Tusch GmbH, a vehicle armouring and conversion specialist, to supply the Austrian Defence and Interior security forces with Grenadiers adapted for enhanced protection. First deliveries and trials will begin by the end of this year.

In both tenders, the Grenadier was deemed the best available platform – versatile body options, multiple wheelbases, fewer parts for straightforward maintenance and strong solid axles capable of carrying massive weight across hostile terrain over prolonged periods.

Ineos Automotive is in advanced procurement discussions with other European and NATO armed forces, including the Team Grenadier consortium, which has been selected to move forward to the trials stage of the British Ministry of Defence’s Light Mobility Vehicle programme.

The Grenadier is already being used by police, border patrols, special forces and emergency rescue services around the world. This includes elite counterterrorism and tactical intervention units in Germany, France and Spain.

Nearly every country on the eastern border of Europe has chosen the Grenadier for their security and border forces, including Hungary, Poland, Czech Republic, Serbia and Slovakia.

The Ineos Grenadier will be on show at the 271 Vans for Business EXPO, which takes place alongside the 2026 CV Workshop EXPO at the RDS Simmonscourt in Dublin from 10th -11th October.