Arquus Sherpa Light Family

Arquus Sherpa Light Overview

The Arquus Sherpa Light is a 4-wheel armored military vehicle designed and developed by French defence company Arquus (formerly Renault Trucks Defense). The family of Sherpa Light vehicles has been used by several defence forces in various countries with different names such as Arquus Sherpa Light, Renault Sherpa Light and Mack Sherpa Light. The Sherpa Light is available in eight armored variants: “Scout“, “Station Wagon“, “Station Wagon XL“, “APC“, “APC XL“, “APC Assault“, “Carrier Short Wheelbase” and “Carrier Long Wheelbase“. Please click on the variants below to see technical specifications of each variant.

Arquus Sherpa Light Chassis

The Sherpa Light is driven by a 4.76L 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine that generates 265 horsepower and over 810 Nm of torque. It is equipped with a fully automatic transmission offering six forward gears, one reverse gear, and a two-speed transfer case, ensuring permanent four-wheel drive. Both front and rear rigid axles are fitted with coil springs and telescopic shock absorbers, providing excellent stability and mobility on rough terrain.

The vehicle features 365/80 R20 tubeless, run-flat tires and a Central Tire Inflation System (CTIS), enabling tire pressure adjustments on the go to adapt to different terrains. Its braking system includes a dual-line, air-over-hydraulic setup with disc brakes on all wheels, enhanced by an Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) for improved control and safety.

Arquus Sherpa Light Variants

Sherpa Light Scout

Weight and Dimensions

The Scout variant of the Sherpa Light family has a curb weight of approximately 6,850 kilograms and a payload capacity of around 4,150 kilograms, giving it a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of 11,000 kilograms. The vehicle’s dimensions include a length of 5,430 millimeters, a height of 2,130 millimeters, and a width of approximately 2,850 millimeters with accessories. It features a wheelbase of 3,540 millimeters. With a ground clearance of 330 millimeters, the vehicle is well-suited for off-road operations and navigating obstacles.

Performance

The Sherpa Light Scout variant boasts a top speed of 110 km/h and a maximum range of 1,000 kilometers. With a turning radius of approximately 9 meters, it can ford water depths of up to 750 millimeters. The vehicle’s approach and departure angles are 59° and 45°, respectively, allowing it to tackle steep inclines and challenging terrain with ease.

It offers a gradeability of 60%, can handle side slopes of up to 40%. With a power-to-weight ratio of 24 horsepower per ton, the Scout variant is engineered for optimal performance in demanding environments.

Protection and Armament

The Sherpa Light Scout variant offers ballistic protection compliant with STANAG 4569, safeguarding the crew compartment against small arms fire and shrapnel. It also provides mine protection according to STANAG 4569. The vehicle can be equipped with different kind of turrets, cupolas etc. There are 4 gunports under the door windows. Rifle holders and additional protection systems can be integrated as per mission requirements.

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Sherpa Light Station Wagon

Weight and Dimensions

The Station Wagon variant of the Sherpa Light family has a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of 11,000 kilograms, with a curb weight of approximately 8,450 kilograms and a payload capacity of around 2,550 kilograms. The vehicle’s dimensions include a length of 5,430 millimeters, a height of 2,130 millimeters, and a width of about 2,850 millimeters, including accessories. It features a wheelbase of 3,540 millimeters. With a ground clearance of 330 millimeters, it is well-suited for off-road operations and overcoming obstacles.

Performance

The Sherpa Light Station Wagon variant offers a range of 1,000 kilometers and achieves a top speed of 110 km/h. It is capable of fording water up to 750 millimeters deep and has a turning radius of approximately 9 meters. With approach and departure angles of 59° and 45°, the vehicle excels at navigating steep inclines and rough terrain. Its gradeability reaches 60%, allowing it to traverse side slopes up to 40%. Featuring a power-to-weight ratio of 24 horsepower per ton, the vehicle is designed for high performance in demanding environments.

Protection and Armament

The Sherpa Light Station Wagon variant ensures ballistic protection according to STANAG 4569, effectively shielding the crew compartment from small arms fire and shrapnel. It also offers mine protection in line with STANAG 4569 standards.

The vehicle includes five gunports positioned beneath the door windows and can be fitted with various turrets, cupolas, and other configurations. Additionally, rifle holders and optional protection systems can be integrated to meet specific mission needs.

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Sherpa Light Station Wagon XL

Weight and Dimensions

The Station Wagon XL variant of the Sherpa Light family has a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of 11,000 kilograms, with a curb weight of around 8,650 kilograms and a payload capacity of approximately 2,350 kilograms. It measures 5,430 millimeters in length, 2,540 millimeters in height, and about 2,850 millimeters in width, including accessories. The vehicle has a wheelbase of 3,540 millimeters. With 330 millimeters of ground clearance, it is designed for optimal performance in off-road environments and efficient obstacle navigation.

Performance

The Sherpa Light Station Wagon XL variant features a gradeability of 60%, allowing it to navigate side slopes of up to 40%. Its approach and departure angles are 59° and 45°, respectively, ensuring smooth passage over steep inclines and rough terrain.

The vehicle’s power-to-weight ratio is 24 horsepower per ton. It is capable of fording water up to 750 millimeters deep and has a turning radius of approximately 9 meters. With a maximum speed of 110 km/h and a range of 1,000 kilometers, the Sherpa Light Station Wagon XL is designed for both performance and endurance.

Protection and Armament

The Sherpa Light Station Wagon XL variant offers mine protection in accordance with STANAG 4569 and ballistic protection in line with STANAG 4569, safeguarding the crew compartment against small arms fire and shrapnel. The vehicle can be equipped with various turrets, cupolas, and other configurations. It features 8 gunports located beneath the windows, and rifle holders, along with additional protection systems, can be integrated according to mission requirements.

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Sherpa Light APC

Weight and Dimensions

The APC variants of the Sherpa Light family weigh approximately 8,800 kilograms with a payload capacity of about 2,200 kilograms, giving the vehicle a total Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of 11,000 kilograms. The vehicle measures 6,000 millimeters in length, with a height of 2,440 millimeters for the APC and 2,530 millimeters for the APC XL variant. Its width is about 2,850 millimeters, including accessories. It also features a wheelbase of 3,790 millimeters. With a ground clearance of 330 millimeters, the vehicle is designed for optimal off-road performance and obstacle navigation.

Performance

The Sherpa Light APC variants can reach a maximum speed of 110 km/h and offer a range of 1,000 kilometers. It features a turning radius of about 9.1 meters and is capable of fording water depths up to 750 millimeters. With approach and departure angles of 59° and 33°, respectively, the vehicle ensures effective navigation of steep inclines and challenging terrain. It offers a gradeability of 60%, can handle side slopes of up to 40%. The vehicle boasts a power-to-weight ratio of 24 horsepower per ton.

Features

The vehicle is designed to seat up to ten crew members, with two front-facing seats and eight face-to-face seats. Access is provided through two side doors and a two-flap rear door. It also includes a two-piece windshield, four windows on the doors, and six windows on the side walls. An optional spare wheel is available to enhance operational flexibility.

Protection and Armament

The Sherpa Light APC variant is equipped with various turrets, cupolas, and other configurations to enhance its combat capabilities. It features 10 gunports beneath the windows and offers the option to integrate rifle holders and additional protection systems according to mission requirements. The vehicle provides ballistic protection for the crew compartment against small arms fire and shrapnel, along with mine protection. It complies with STANAG 4569 for ballistic defense and mine protection.

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Sherpa Light APC Assault

Weight and Dimensions

The APC Assault variant of the Sherpa Light family features a wheelbase of 3,790 millimeters and a ground clearance of 330 millimeters, ensuring optimal performance for off-road operations and obstacle clearance. The vehicle has a curb weight of approximately 9,500 kilograms and a payload capacity of around 1,500 kilograms, resulting in a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of 11,000 kilograms. It measures 6,000 millimeters in length, 2,440 millimeters in height, and about 2,850 millimeters in width, including accessories.

Performance

The Sherpa Light APC Assault variant has a power-to-weight ratio of 24 horsepower per ton. It is capable of fording water up to 750 millimeters deep and has a turning radius of about 9.1 meters. With approach and departure angles of 59° and 33°, respectively, the vehicle is well-equipped to navigate steep inclines and challenging terrain.

The vehicle offers a gradeability of 60%, can handle side slopes of up to 40%. It can reach a maximum speed of 110 km/h and has a range of 1,000 kilometers.

Protection and Armament

The Sherpa Light APC Assault variant is equipped with an assault platform on the roof, allowing the crew to reach a height of about 8 meters. It features 10 gunports beneath the windows and provides the option to integrate rifle holders and additional protection systems based on mission requirements. The vehicle offers ballistic protection according to STANAG 4569, shielding the crew compartment from small arms fire and shrapnel, as well as mine protection in line with STANAG 4569.

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Sherpa Light Carrier

Weight and Dimensions

The Carrier variants of the Sherpa Light family offer a ground clearance of 330 millimeters, optimizing performance for off-road operations and obstacle clearance. The vehicle has a curb weight of approximately 6,200 kilograms and a payload capacity of around 4,800 kilograms, resulting in a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of 11,000 kilograms. It measures 6,250 millimeters in length, 2,130 millimeters in height, and about 2,850 millimeters in width, including accessories. The variant is available with two wheelbase options: 4,100 millimeters and 4,370 millimeters.

Performance

The Sherpa Light Carrier variants have a turning radius of about 9.2 meters and feature approach and departure angles of 59° and 32°, respectively, ensuring effective navigation of steep inclines and challenging terrain. It is capable of fording water up to 750 millimeters deep. The vehicle achieves a maximum speed of 110 km/h and offers a range of 1,000 kilometers. With a gradeability of 60%, it can traverse side slopes up to 40%. The power-to-weight ratio is 24 horsepower per ton.

Features

The vehicle is configured to carry a crew of two, featuring two front-facing seats with access provided through two doors. It is equipped with a two-piece windshield and two windows on the doors. An optional spare wheel is available to enhance operational flexibility.

Protection and Armament

The Sherpa Light Carrier variant features two gunports beneath the windows, and rifle holders along with additional protection systems can be integrated to meet specific mission requirements. It offers ballistic protection in line with STANAG 4569, safeguarding the crew compartment against small arms fire and shrapnel, as well as mine protection in accordance with STANAG 4569.

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Development Story of the Renault (Arquus) Sherpa Light

The development of the Sherpa Light can be traced back to the early 2000s, when Renault Trucks Defense (RTD), a long-established French manufacturer with a rich history in military vehicle production, identified a burgeoning market need for a highly versatile and survivable light tactical vehicle. At the time, many armed forces were still relying on older, often unarmored, light utility vehicles that were becoming increasingly vulnerable to the asymmetric threats of modern conflicts, particularly improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and small arms fire.

RTD envisioned a new family of vehicles that would offer a significant leap forward in terms of protection, payload capacity, and off-road mobility, while remaining air-transportable for rapid deployment. The goal was to create a modular platform that could be adapted to a wide variety of roles, from reconnaissance and patrol to troop transport and specialized systems carriers.

The design philosophy behind the Sherpa Light focused on several key pillars:

• Robust Chassis Design: Built on a dedicated 4×4 military chassis, the Sherpa Light was engineered for high performance in terms of mobility and payload. This was a departure from simply militarizing a commercial chassis, ensuring that the vehicle’s core structure could withstand the rigors of military operations.
• Scalable Protection: Recognizing the varying threat levels encountered by different units, the Sherpa Light was designed with inherent scalability in its armor. It could be supplied in unarmored configurations or with modular ballistic, mine, and IED protection kits, allowing customers to tailor the level of protection to their specific mission profiles. These protection levels comply with international standards.
• High Mobility and Off-Road Capability: The vehicle was designed for exceptional on and off-road performance, capable of traversing challenging terrains, including rough ground, steep gradients, and varying environmental conditions. This was achieved through a powerful engine, advanced drivetrain, and robust suspension.
• Modularity and Versatility: From its inception, the Sherpa Light was conceived as a multi-role platform. Its common chassis was designed to accommodate various body types and mission-specific equipment, minimizing logistical footprints and maximizing operational flexibility for armed forces.
• Air Transportability: A crucial requirement for modern expeditionary forces, the Sherpa Light was engineered to be easily air-transportable by common military transport aircraft, such as the C-130 Hercules and the A400M Atlas, ensuring rapid deployment to global hotspots.

The fruits of RTD’s development efforts culminated in the official unveiling of the Sherpa family of trucks, including the Sherpa Light, at the Eurosatory defense exhibition in June 2006 in Paris. This marked its first public appearance, showcasing new members of the Sherpa truck family, including tactical vehicles, armored vehicles, and light trucks. The Sherpa Light, initially referred to in some contexts as Sherpa 2/3 before being standardized to “Light” around 2010, quickly garnered international attention for its balanced attributes.

The subsequent years saw the Sherpa Light undergo rigorous testing and evaluation by various armed forces, confirming its capabilities and leading to initial orders. This early success set the stage for the continuous evolution of the Sherpa Light family, driven by feedback from operators and the ever-changing demands of the global security environment. The acquisition of Renault Trucks Defense by Volvo Group, and its subsequent rebranding as Arquus, further solidified the company’s position as a major player in military mobility solutions, with the Sherpa Light remaining a flagship product.

Exhibitions and Early Public Appearances

The launch of the Sherpa Light at Eurosatory 2006 was a strategic move by Renault Trucks Defense (now Arquus) to present its new, versatile tactical vehicle to a global audience. Following this significant debut, the Sherpa Light has been a consistent presence at major international defense and security exhibitions, evolving with each appearance to showcase new variants, integrations, and technological advancements.

Key exhibitions and their role in the Sherpa Light’s public journey include:

• Eurosatory (Paris, France) – June 2006: This was the definitive global debut of the Sherpa Light. As one of the largest and most influential land and air-land defense and security exhibitions in the world, Eurosatory provided the ideal platform for RTD to unveil the entire Sherpa family, including the initial Sherpa Light variants. Its presentation here was critical for immediately positioning it against competitors and attracting the attention of military delegations and potential customers from around the globe.
• Eurosatory (Subsequent editions, notably 2012, 2014, 2018, 2022): The Sherpa Light has been a perennial feature at Eurosatory.
  • At Eurosatory 2012, the Sherpa Light was prominently displayed, solidifying its reputation as a combat-proven vehicle.
  • Eurosatory 2022 saw Arquus showcase the new variant specifically designed to provide tactical challenges met by artillery in high-intensity warfare. This demonstration underscored the Sherpa Light’s adaptability for specialized combat support roles. Arquus also highlighted its partnership with Thales and NTGS for this system.
  • Partnerships and advanced integrations are also frequently displayed, such as the ARQUUS and MICHELIN partnership signing at Eurosatory 2022.
• IDEX (International Defense Exhibition and Conference – Abu Dhabi, UAE): Given the significant market for armored vehicles in the Middle East, IDEX has been a crucial platform for Arquus. The Sherpa Light and its variants would have been showcased regularly to regional military and security forces, aiming to consolidate sales in countries like Saudi Arabia and Kuwait.
• DSA (Defence Services Asia Exhibition & Conference – Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia): As Arquus expanded its presence in Asia, events like DSA provided opportunities to present the Sherpa Light to nations in Southeast Asia, leading to collaborations and sales in countries such as Indonesia.
• AUSA (Association of the United States Army Annual Meeting & Exposition – Washington D.C., USA): While a French vehicle, the Sherpa Light has also been marketed in North America through partners like Mack Defense. The Mack Sherpa Light Scout was unveiled for the first time at AUSA 2014, demonstrating efforts to penetrate the North American market.
• Special Operations Forces Industry Conference (SOFIC – Tampa, Florida, USA): Recognizing the Sherpa Light’s suitability for elite units, Mack Defense promoted the Sherpa Special Forces variant at SOFIC in 2017, targeting specialized military clients.
• BRIDEX (Brunei Darussalam International Defence Exhibition & Conference – Brunei) – July 2011: The Sherpa Light made an appearance in Asia at BRIDEX 2011, alongside other Renault Trucks Defense vehicles like the VAB Mk II, signaling its entry into the Asian defense market.
• DEFEA (Defence Exhibition of Athens, Greece) – May 2025: A recent major event where Arquus announced a significant contract with Cyprus for 12 Sherpa Station Wagon vehicles equipped with MBDA’s Akeron missile system. This highlighted the Sherpa’s continued integration with advanced weapon systems and its role in enhancing regional defense capabilities. The vehicle exhibited was configured with both the Akeron MP missile and a Hornet Remote-Controlled Weapon Station (RCWS), showcasing its versatile combat capabilities.
• World Defense Show (WDS – Saudi Arabia) – February 2024: The Saudi Arabian army presented its newly entered service Sherpa Scout at WDS 2024, demonstrating its operational deployment in the region.

These consistent exhibition appearances have been instrumental in establishing the Sherpa Light’s global brand, fostering international partnerships, and continuously presenting its evolving capabilities to meet the dynamic needs of modern defense and security forces.

Guardians of Diverse Missions: Users and Operators

The Arquus Sherpa Light has achieved remarkable global adoption, serving a wide spectrum of users ranging from conventional armed forces and special operations units to internal security and law enforcement agencies. Its inherent modularity and adaptability to various mission profiles have made it a preferred choice across different continents.

Here’s a breakdown of its key users and operators:

• France (Home User):
  • French Special Forces: A primary user of the Sherpa Light, particularly the PLFS (Poids Lourd des Forces Spéciales). An initial order was placed in 2015, highlighting its role in deep penetration missions, reconnaissance, and special operations.
  • GIGN (Groupe d’intervention de la Gendarmerie nationale): France’s elite gendarmerie tactical unit utilizes Sherpa APCs, notably equipped with specialized assault ladders for counter-terrorism and intervention missions against barricaded subjects or in high-rise buildings. Two such vehicles were in service as of 2018.
  • National Police: Certain specialized units within the French National Police may also operate Sherpa Light variants for internal security and counter-terrorism roles.
• Middle East and North Africa:
  • Saudi Arabia: A significant client, Saudi Arabia has acquired a substantial number of Sherpa Light vehicles. While an initial order of 100 Sherpas was reportedly intended for Lebanon but repurposed, they have recently entered service with the Saudi army, including the Sherpa Scout variant, which was presented at WDS 2024. Saudi Arabia shows increasing interest in modernizing its terrestrial military capabilities with Arquus vehicles.
  • Kuwait: A major customer, Kuwait received 120 Sherpa vehicles in 2015, followed by an additional 300 in 2018. Deliveries of the last Sherpas ordered were completed in December 2020, in various versions, making Kuwait one of the largest operators.
  • Qatar: Acquired 10 Sherpa vehicles in 2011 for its Internal Security Forces.
  • Egypt: Both the Egyptian Army and National Police forces utilize the Sherpa Scout/Light Station Wagon, with 191 vehicles ordered and delivered between 2012 and 2014. Egypt has even developed a local variant known as the Temsah Sherpa.
  • Morocco: Its special forces acquired 36 Sherpa Light 4×4 tactical vehicles in two variants (Light Scout and Light APC) around June 2020. These vehicles are understood to support and accompany Nexter Caesar artillery systems.
  • Lebanon: While some orders may have been repurposed, Lebanon’s security forces are also reported users of Sherpa Light.
• Asia Pacific:
  • Indonesia: Operates Sherpa Light Scout, armored Light Scout, and Weapon System Carrier/Station Wagon variants, including those for MBDA MPCV Systems. Renault collaborated with PT Pindad to manufacture some of the Sherpas for the Indonesian military, leading to a local variant called the Elang, though produced in limited quantities.
  • India: The National Security Guard and Central Industrial Security Force utilize the Sherpa Light, including the Assault Ladder version for specialized security missions.
  • Chile: The Carabineros de Chile’s GOPES (Special Police Operations Group) purchased Sherpa Light vehicles, with initial acquisitions in 2014.
• Europe:
  • Cyprus: In a significant recent contract announced in May 2025, the Cypriot National Guard is set to receive 12 Sherpa Station Wagon variants equipped with MBDA’s Akeron anti-armor missile. This marks a new user and a key integration of advanced weapon systems.
  • NATO Members: The Sherpa Light is “NATO qualified” and has been used by NATO forces in various missions, indicating its interoperability and adherence to Alliance standards.
• Americas:
  • Brazil: The Federal Police of Brazil operates three Sherpa Light APCs.
• Oceania:
  • Australia: Corrections Victoria Security and Emergency Services Group (SESG) uses two Mack-badged Sherpa Light vehicles for high-risk prisoner transport, manufactured in Australia under Volvo.

This extensive and geographically diverse list of operators demonstrates the Sherpa Light’s success in meeting the rigorous demands of various military and security organizations across different operational doctrines and threat environments.

Used Operations, Conflicts, and Wars

The Arquus Sherpa Light has seen active deployment in various conflict zones and operational areas, demonstrating its resilience and effectiveness in challenging real-world scenarios. While specific detailed accounts of its performance in every engagement are not always publicly disclosed, its consistent use by special forces and security units in high-threat environments speaks to its capabilities.

• Afghanistan (NATO’s ISAF Mission): The Sherpa Light gained crucial combat experience in Afghanistan, particularly with French and other NATO forces participating in the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF).
  • Patrol and Reconnaissance: Its high mobility and adaptable armor kits were vital for protected patrols and reconnaissance missions in rugged terrain, where threats from IEDs and small arms ambushes were prevalent.
  • Convoy Escort: Sherpa Lights often served as escort vehicles for logistics convoys, providing a protected presence against insurgent attacks.
  • Special Operations Support: For French Special Forces operating in the country, the Sherpa Light provided a robust and mobile platform for rapid deployment, intelligence gathering, and direct action missions in hostile environments.
• Middle East Operations:
  • Counter-Insurgency and Internal Security: Countries like Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Qatar have deployed their Sherpa Light fleets in various internal security and counter-insurgency operations. The vehicles provide protected transport for security forces, enabling them to respond to threats and maintain stability in volatile regions. The Sherpa Scout has recently entered service with the Saudi army, with its presence at WDS 2024 confirming its operational use.
  • Border Security: In regions with porous borders, the Sherpa Light’s mobility and protection are utilized for border patrol and interdiction missions, safeguarding personnel from illicit cross-border activities and militant incursions.
• African Deployments (Various Missions): French forces and other operators of the Sherpa Light have deployed the vehicle in various African countries as part of counter-terrorism operations (e.g., in the Sahel region), training missions, and stability operations. Its ability to operate in diverse climatic and geographical conditions, from deserts to challenging rural areas, makes it a valuable asset in these theaters.
• Counter-Terrorism Operations (Domestic & International): For elite police and gendarmerie units like France’s GIGN, the Sherpa Light equipped with assault ladders has been a critical tool in responding to urban terrorist attacks or barricaded suspect situations. Its armor protects operators during close-quarters engagements, while the assault ladder provides rapid access to structures.
• General Security and Crisis Response: Across all its user nations, the Sherpa Light is a frontline vehicle for responding to high-risk situations, providing protected transport and a stable platform for various equipment during crises, civil unrest, or other threats to public order.

The combat-proven status of the Sherpa Light is a key selling point for Arquus, indicating its ability to withstand the rigors of modern warfare and asymmetric threats. Its deployment across a wide range of operational environments and its use by highly demanding units like special forces underscore its effectiveness and reliability in the most challenging scenarios.

Contracts and Sales

The commercial success of the Arquus Sherpa Light is evidenced by a steady stream of contracts from a diverse array of international customers, highlighting its adaptability and the trust placed in its capabilities. While precise financial figures for all contracts are not always publicly disclosed, the volume and strategic nature of these deals underscore its market penetration.

Major Contracts and Acquisitions:

• French Armed Forces (Initial Orders and PLFS):
  • As the original developer and domestic user, the French military has been a consistent customer. While initial general contracts are less detailed publicly, a significant order for 202 PLFS (Poids Lourd des Forces Spéciales) vehicles, based on the Sherpa 2 chassis, was placed in 2015 for French special forces. Deliveries under this program have been ongoing.
• Middle East and North Africa (MENA) Region – A Key Market:
  • Kuwait: One of the largest international customers. Kuwait received 120 Sherpa vehicles in 2015, followed by a substantial order for an additional 300 units in 2018. The deliveries of these last vehicles, in various versions, were completed in December 2020. These large orders indicate a significant investment and confidence in the Sherpa Light for its security forces.
  • Saudi Arabia: While specific contract values are often withheld, Saudi Arabia has acquired a notable number of Sherpa Lights. Reports indicate an initial order of 100 Sherpas, which, after a change in recipient, were eventually put into service with the Saudi army, including the Sherpa Scout variant, confirmed at WDS 2024. Saudi Arabia is a key client for Arquus vehicles.
  • Egypt: Signed contracts for Sherpa Scout/Light Station Wagon variants, receiving 191 vehicles between 2012 and 2014 for both its army and national police forces.
  • Qatar: Acquired 10 Sherpa vehicles in 2011 for its Internal Security Forces.
  • Morocco: Its special forces secured an agreement for 36 Sherpa Light 4×4 tactical vehicles (Light Scout and Light APC variants) around June 2020, primarily to support their artillery systems.
• Asia Pacific Market:
  • Indonesia: Renault Trucks Defense (now Arquus) received orders from Indonesia in January 2011 for Sherpa Light vehicles. Arquus also engaged in industrial cooperation with Indonesian firm PT Pindad for local manufacturing of some Sherpas, leading to the Elang variant.
  • India: The National Security Guard and Central Industrial Security Force are reported users, including the specialized Assault Ladder version.
• Europe (Expanding Footprint):
  • Cyprus: A very recent and significant contract announced in May 2025 during the DEFEA exhibition in Athens. Cyprus is to receive 12 Sherpa Station Wagon vehicles specifically equipped with MBDA’s Akeron anti-armor missile launchers. This represents a new major user in Europe and highlights a strategic integration of advanced weapon systems.
• Americas:
  • Brazil: The Federal Police of Brazil acquired three Sherpa Light APCs.
  • Chile: The Carabineros de Chile’s GOPES purchased Sherpa Light vehicles, starting in 2014.

Overall Production and Global Reach:

• As of May 2020, Arquus announced the successful production of the 1000th Sherpa Light vehicle, underscoring its significant production volume and market success.
• The Sherpa Light family is in service with numerous armies and police forces globally, including those in NATO countries, the Middle East, Asia, and Latin America, confirming its widespread acceptance and combat-proven status on all continents.

The continuous flow of orders and the strategic collaborations, such as the one with MBDA for the Akeron missile integration for Cyprus, demonstrate Arquus’s ability to not only deliver robust and reliable vehicles but also to integrate them with advanced combat systems, ensuring the Sherpa Light remains a highly competitive and sought-after solution in the global armored vehicle market.

Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of the Arquus Sherpa Light

The Arquus Sherpa Light stands as a compelling example of modern military vehicle design, perfectly blending high mobility, robust protection, and exceptional versatility. From its strategic unveiling by Renault Trucks Defense (now Arquus) at Eurosatory in 2006, it quickly established itself as a formidable contender in the light tactical vehicle segment, distinguished by its dedicated military chassis and modular approach to protection.

The core philosophy behind the Sherpa Light’s development was to provide a truly multi-role platform. This commitment has resulted in a family of vehicles capable of performing an extensive array of missions, from reconnaissance and border patrol to protected troop transport, special operations support, and specialized weapon system carriage. Its design prioritizes operational flexibility, allowing for easy air transportability, which is a critical factor for rapid deployment in today’s global security landscape.

The Sherpa Light’s operational history is a testament to its combat effectiveness. It has been rigorously tested in the crucible of real-world conflicts, notably with NATO forces in Afghanistan, where its resilience against IEDs and small arms fire proved invaluable in protecting personnel during patrols and logistical operations. Its presence in various Middle Eastern and African operations, including those focused on counter-insurgency and internal security, further underscores its ability to perform reliably in diverse and challenging environments. The adoption by elite units like the French GIGN for counter-terrorism operations, including the specialized assault ladder variant, highlights its utility in critical high-risk scenarios.

Arquus has ensured the Sherpa Light remains at the forefront of military technology through continuous innovation. Each major defense exhibition, from Eurosatory to DEFEA, has served as a platform to unveil new variants and advanced integrations. The vehicle’s capacity to host remote weapon stations and advanced communication systems further extends its tactical utility.

The widespread adoption of the Sherpa Light by over a dozen countries across four continents speaks volumes about its market success. Significant contracts with nations like Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and the recent notable order from Cyprus, demonstrate the global trust placed in Arquus’s engineering and the Sherpa Light’s proven capabilities. The milestone of over 1,000 units produced by 2020 solidifies its position as a major player in the armored vehicle market.

In sum, the Arquus Sherpa Light is more than a vehicle; it is a versatile combat asset designed to empower modern armed forces. Its enduring legacy is built on a foundation of robust protection, exceptional mobility, and continuous innovation, ensuring it remains a vital component in safeguarding personnel and achieving mission success in an ever-complex world.

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