One year on from becoming a Ford Qualified Vehicle Modifier, Armormax delivers a rugged yet stealthy armoured solution for high-risk operations
Johannesburg, South Africa – In a decisive showcase of its technical expertise and engineering flexibility, Armormax has unveiled a cutting-edge Security Variant based on the Ford Ranger Double Cab – a B6-level armoured vehicle developed in direct response to a major volume order from a confidential client. This high-spec, discreet patrol and intercept vehicle is designed to perform in hostile, off-road environments without compromising its OEM aesthetics or dynamic capabilities.
This latest development arrives one year after Armormax achieved Ford Qualified Vehicle Modifier (QVM) status – a designation granted to only the most trusted and compliant upfitters within the Ford network. The new Security Variant not only underscores the company’s capability to meet complex briefs, but also its commitment to seamlessly integrating armoured protection without disturbing the essence of the vehicle.
Meeting Mission-Critical Demands
The client’s requirements were extensive: build a discreet, B6-certified vehicle capable of enduring sustained assault rifle fire from multiple angles, navigating non-permissible terrain with ease, supporting advanced surveillance, and preserving OEM vehicle functionality and appearance.
“It is our strong belief that we have met the vehicle requirements and have successfully integrated both approaches to vehicle armour,” says Michael Broom, Marketing Manager at Armormax. “The result is a vehicle that is practical, discreet, functional and durable. We expect this offering to be of great interest to others in the security industry.”
At the heart of the project lies Armormax’s philosophy of lightweight protection that does not interfere with a vehicle’s original driving dynamics. Despite comprehensive upgrades, the complete armour conversion weighs in at just 519 kg – an impressive figure for a B6-rated platform equipped for tactical operation.
Armour Engineering: Lightweight, Layered, and Invisible
For the opaque armour, internationally sourced Ramor and Armox ballistic steel are strategically placed inside key structural components – doors, firewalls, pillars, fenders, and headers – without altering load-bearing elements or OEM mounting points. Lightweight composite materials are used for floor and roof protection, while the fuel tank is lined with Armorcote for self-sealing protection against penetration. Battery and ECU units are similarly protected with advanced composites.
The vehicle’s ballistic glass specification includes a factory-fit Optima B6 windscreen indistinguishable from stock, paired with Phoenix B6 glass in bespoke bolt-on/bolt-off steel frames for side and rear windows. This approach allows for ease of door maintenance while maintaining an entirely factory exterior look. The rear window is uniquely designed with a quick-release mechanism, doubling as a discreet escape hatch in rollover or other emergency scenarios.
Bespoke sliding gun ports on three doors allow operators to engage from within the vehicle using standard assault firearms. These ports are discreetly integrated, avoiding the conventional round-glass style that often signals a vehicle’s tactical nature.
Enhanced Visibility for All Scenarios
With operational environments ranging from covert to high-visibility, the Ranger Security Variant includes an array of lighting and surveillance tools:
- High-powered LED light bars on a roof-mounted rack illuminate the sides and rear for open-field operations.
- A 360-degree rotating spotlight is mounted forward on the rack, controllable remotely from within or outside the vehicle.
- Hidden strobe lights embedded in the grille and taillights provide emergency visual alerts when required.
- An infra-red night vision camera mounted on the roof offers operators complete visibility in zero-light conditions, streaming real-time footage to a dashboard-mounted tablet and capable of recording engagements if necessary.
These systems are powered by a dedicated auxiliary battery with integrated REDARC in-vehicle charging, ensuring they remain operational without drawing on the vehicle’s main power reserves.
Built to Move: Suspension and Run-Flats for Mission Continuity
To cope with the added weight and unpredictable terrain, the vehicle has been equipped with a premium Old Man Emu adjustable heavy-duty suspension system. It can be tuned to optimise ride comfort, control and handling across different operating environments.
Further enhancing survivability, military-grade Duraflat run-flat systems have been fitted to all wheels, enabling continued operation even if the tyres are fully deflated – a critical feature for evasive movement under threat.
Communications and Control
Operational clarity is enhanced with a PA system and integrated siren, along with a Push To Talk (PTT) communication system for secure intra-vehicle conversation during high-stress scenarios.
Pricing, Compatibility and Warranty
The vehicle showcased is based on the Ford Ranger 2.0L Turbo Diesel XL 4×4 Automatic, though the Security Variant upgrade is compatible with all Ford Ranger Double Cab models, excluding the Raptor, due to its lower Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM).
Importantly, the armouring conversion is fully compliant with Ford’s QVM standards, meaning the original manufacturer warranty and service plan remain unaffected. Additional fitments and components were sourced from other approved Ford QVM partners to maintain this integrity. A three-year warranty is also included on all armouring components and workmanship.
The full armouring and equipment package is priced at R1,043,478.26 excluding VAT and the base vehicle, making it an attractive proposition for security firms and government agencies seeking a robust, proven, and discreet solution.
With its latest Security Variant, Armormax has successfully redefined the potential of discreet armoured transport. By harmonising stealth, protection, off-road capability and day-to-night operational readiness into a single platform, the company has delivered a Ranger that goes far beyond ordinary – one that’s built for the extremes without ever showing it.
