Lenco BearCat Family

Lenco BearCat Overview

The BearCat is a 4-wheels armored military vehicle designed and developed by US defence company Lenco Armored Vehicles. The family of BearCat vehicles has been used by several law enforcement and defence forces in various countries. The BearCat is available in nine armored variants: “G2“, “G2 EOD“, “G2 Medevac“, “G3“, “G3 EOD“, “G3 Medevac“, “G3 Elevated Tactics“, “G5” and “X3“. Please click on the variants to see technical specifications of each variant.

Lenco BearCat Chassis

The BearCat is using Ford F-550 chassis with some modifications include shortening wheelbase, changing wheels and tyres in addition to suspension tuning. The BearCat is powered by a 330-horsepower, 6.7L 8-cylinder turbodiesel engine that delivers 1118 Nm of torque. It features a fully automatic transmission with ten forward speeds, one reverse speed, and a two-speed transfer box, enabling selectable four-wheel drive. Front rigid axle is equipped with coil springs, gas type shock absorbers and stabiliser. Rear rigid axle is fitted with leaf springs, gas type shock absorbers and stabiliser.

The vehicle is outfitted with 245/70 R19.5, 12R20 or 365/80 R20 sizes tubeless, run-flat tires depend on variant. Some variants provide Central Tire Inflation System (CTIS) allows tire pressure adjustment while on the move, tailored to different terrains. Braking is managed by a dual-line, hydraulic system with disc brakes on all wheels, supplemented by Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS).

Lenco BearCat Protection and Armament

The BearCat variants offer ballistic protection compliant with STANAG 4569, safeguarding the crew compartment against small arms fire and shrapnel. Moreover, the engine compartment has same protection level with crew compartment. BearCat variants provide mine protection according to STANAG 4569. The vehicle can be equipped with different kind of turrets, cupolas and mission platforms. Additional protection systems can be integrated as per mission requirements.

Lenco BearCat Variants

BearCat G2

Weight and Dimensions

The G2 variant of the BearCat family features a curb weight of approximately 8,000 kilograms and a payload capacity of around 2,000 kilograms, resulting in a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of 10,000 kilograms. It has a wheelbase of 3,327 millimeters, ensuring stability and maneuverability. The ground clearance measures 257 millimeters, enhancing its off-road capabilities and ability to navigate obstacles.

In terms of dimensions, the vehicle is 6,591 millimeters long, 2,692 millimeters high, and approximately 3,000 millimeters wide, including accessories. These specifications make the G2 a versatile option for a range of military and defense applications.

Performance

The BearCat G2 variant achieves a maximum speed of 120 km/h and a range of more than 600 kilometers. It has a turning radius of 5.9 meters and is capable of fording water up to 711 millimeters deep. Its approach and departure angles are 41° and 21°, respectively, ensuring effective navigation of steep inclines and challenging terrain. The vehicle has a gradeability of 60%, can traverse side slopes up to 40%. The power-to-weight ratio is 33 horsepower per ton.

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BearCat G2 EOD

Weight and Dimensions

The G2 EOD variant of the BearCat family measures 7,162 millimeters in length, 2,692 millimeters in height, and approximately 3,000 millimeters in width, including accessories. It features a wheelbase of 3,327 millimeters, ensuring stability and maneuverability. Ground clearance stands at 257 millimeters, enhancing its capability to handle off-road terrain and clear obstacles effectively.

With a curb weight of approximately 8,200 kilograms and a payload capacity of around 1,800 kilograms, the G2 EOD achieves a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of 10,000 kilograms, making it a reliable and robust choice for demanding military and defense operations.

Performance

The BearCat G2 EOD variant features approach and departure angles of 41° and 13°, respectively, allowing it to tackle steep inclines and challenging terrain with ease. The vehicle achieves a maximum speed of 120 km/h and offers a range of over 600 kilometers. With a turning radius of 5.9 meters, it is maneuverable in tight spaces and can ford water up to 711 millimeters deep. Additionally, the G2 EOD boasts a gradeability of 60% and can handle side slopes of up to 40%. Its power-to-weight ratio is 33 horsepower per ton, ensuring balanced performance across diverse terrains.

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BearCat G2 Medevac

Weight and Dimensions

The G2 Medevac variant of the BearCat family measures 6,591 millimeters in length, 2,692 millimeters in height, and approximately 3,000 millimeters in width, including accessories. It has a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of 10,000 kilograms, with a curb weight of around 8,000 kilograms and a payload capacity of approximately 2,000 kilograms. The vehicle features a wheelbase of 3,327 millimeters. With a ground clearance of 257 millimeters, it is optimized for off-road performance and efficient obstacle clearance.

Performance

The BearCat G2 Medevac variant boasts a gradeability of 60%, the ability to traverse side slopes up to 40%. Its approach and departure angles are 41° and 21°, respectively, ensuring efficient navigation of steep inclines and rugged terrain. The vehicle achieves a maximum speed of 120 km/h and offers a range of more than 600 kilometers. It also has a turning radius of 5.9 meters and can ford water up to 711 millimeters deep. With a power-to-weight ratio of 33 horsepower per ton, it excels in both performance and maneuverability across challenging environments.

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BearCat G3

Weight and Dimensions

The G3 variant of the BearCat family has a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of 10,000 kilograms, with a curb weight of approximately 8,100 kilograms and a payload capacity of around 1,900 kilograms. The vehicle measures 6,591 millimeters in length, 2,794 millimeters in height, and about 3,000 millimeters in width, including accessories. It features a wheelbase of 3,327 millimeters. With a ground clearance of 355 millimeters, the G3 is optimized for off-road performance and efficient obstacle navigation.

Performance

The BearCat G3 variant achieves a maximum speed of 120 km/h and a range of more than 600 kilometers. The power-to-weight ratio is 33 horsepower per ton. The vehicle has a turning radius of 6.4 meters and is capable of fording water up to 762 millimeters deep. Its approach and departure angles are 41° and 25°, respectively, ensuring effective navigation of steep inclines and challenging terrain. The vehicle features a gradeability of 60%, can traverse side slopes up to 40%.

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BearCat G3 EOD

Weight and Dimensions

The G3 EOD variant of the BearCat family features a ground clearance of 355 millimeters, enhancing its performance in off-road operations and obstacle navigation. It has a wheelbase of 3,327 millimeters, providing stability and maneuverability. The vehicle measures 7,162 millimeters in length, 3,023 millimeters in height, and about 3,000 millimeters in width, including accessories. With a curb weight of approximately 8,300 kilograms and a payload capacity of around 1,700 kilograms, it achieves a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of 10,000 kilograms.

Performance

The BearCat G3 EOD variant features a gradeability of 60%, the ability to traverse side slopes up to 40%. Its approach and departure angles are 41° and 17°, respectively, enabling it to navigate steep inclines and rugged terrain effectively. The vehicle has a turning radius of 6.4 meters and can ford water up to 762 millimeters deep. It achieves a maximum speed of 120 km/h and offers a range of more than 600 kilometers. With a power-to-weight ratio of 33 horsepower per ton, it ensures reliable performance across challenging environments.

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BearCat G3 Medevac

Weight and Dimensions

The G3 Medevac variant of the BearCat family measures 2,794 millimeters in height, about 3,000 millimeters in width (including accessories), and 6,591 millimeters in length. It has a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of 10,000 kilograms, with a payload capacity of approximately 1,900 kilograms and a curb weight of around 8,100 kilograms. The vehicle features a wheelbase of 3,327 millimeters. With a ground clearance of 355 millimeters, it is optimized for off-road performance and effective obstacle navigation.

Performance

The BearCat G3 Medevac variant features approach and departure angles of 41° and 25°, respectively, allowing it to navigate steep inclines and rugged terrain effectively. It has a gradeability of 60%, can traverse side slopes up to 40%. The vehicle has a turning radius of 6.4 meters and can ford water up to 762 millimeters deep. It achieves a maximum speed of 120 km/h and offers a range of more than 600 kilometers. With a power-to-weight ratio of 33 horsepower per ton, the G3 Medevac variant is designed for reliable performance in challenging environments.

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BearCat G3 Elevated Tactics

Weight and Dimensions

The G3 Elevated Tactics variant of the BearCat family boasts a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of 10,000 kilograms, with a curb weight of approximately 8,400 kilograms and a payload capacity of around 1,600 kilograms. The vehicle is approximately 3,294 millimeters tall, about 3,000 millimeters wide (with accessories), and spans 6,591 millimeters in length. Its wheelbase extends 3,327 millimeters. With a ground clearance of 355 millimeters, the design enhances its capabilities for traversing uneven terrain and navigating challenging barriers.

Performance

The BearCat G3 Elevated Tactics variant has a gradeability of 60% and can handle side slopes up to 40%. The vehicle features approach and departure angles of 41° and 25°, respectively, enabling it to navigate steep inclines and rough terrain. It can ford water up to 762 millimeters deep and has a turning radius of 6.4 meters. With a maximum speed of 120 km/h and a range exceeding 600 kilometers, the vehicle delivers impressive performance. Additionally, the power-to-weight ratio is 33 horsepower per ton.

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BearCat G5

Weight and Dimensions

The G5 variant of the BeatCat family has a curb weight of approximately 9,000 kilograms and a payload capacity of around 1,000 kilograms, resulting in a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of 10,000 kilograms. The vehicle measures 6,401 millimeters in length, 2,794 millimeters in height, and about 3,000 millimeters in width, including accessories. It has a wheelbase of 3,327 millimeters. Ground clearance is 381 millimeters, optimizing its performance for off-road operations and obstacle clearance.

Performance

The BearCat G5 variants approach and departure angles are 41° and 25°, respectively, allowing it to effectively tackle steep inclines and rugged terrain. The vehicle has a gradeability of 60% and can traverse side slopes up to 40%. It can also ford water up to 762 millimeters deep and has a turning radius of 6.4 meters. With a maximum speed of 120 km/h and a range of more than 600 kilometers, the vehicle offers impressive mobility. Its power-to-weight ratio is 33 horsepower per ton.

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BearCat X3

Weight and Dimensions

The X3 variant of the BearCat family has a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of 10,000 kilograms, with a curb weight of approximately 6,600 kilograms and a payload capacity of around 3,400 kilograms. It offers a ground clearance of 355 millimeters, ensuring optimal performance on rough terrain. The vehicle has a length of 6,401 millimeters, a height of 2,794 millimeters, and a width of about 3,000 millimeters, including accessories. Its wheelbase spans 3,327 millimeters.

Performance

The BearCat G3 variant can ford water up to 762 millimeters deep and has a turning radius of 6.4 meters. It achieves a maximum speed of 120 km/h and offers a range of more than 600 kilometers. The vehicle has an approach angle of 41° and a departure angle of 25°, enabling it to handle steep inclines and challenging terrain. With a gradeability of 60% and the ability to traverse side slopes up to 40%. The power-to-weight ratio stands at 33 horsepower per ton.

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Development Story of the LENCO BearCat

The story of the LENCO BearCat is rooted in a fundamental understanding of the evolving challenges faced by law enforcement and tactical teams in the early 21st century. Lenco Industries, a Massachusetts-based company founded in 1981, had already established itself in the armored vehicle market with its larger B.E.A.R. (Ballistic Engineered Armored Response) vehicle, designed for military and heavy tactical applications. However, by the late 1990s and early 2000s, there was a growing recognition among domestic law enforcement agencies of the need for a more agile, yet equally protective, armored vehicle. Many departments were relying on aging, often military-surplus, armored personnel carriers or lightly up-armored commercial vehicles, which often lacked adequate protection, maneuverability, or modern features.

The impetus for the BearCat’s development came in 2000, specifically from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Special Enforcement Bureau (SEB). They approached Lenco with a request to design a new armored police vehicle that would serve as an updated and improved replacement for their fleet of military surplus Cadillac Gage Ranger “PeaceKeeper” armored vehicles. The key requirements were to maintain robust ballistic protection while offering enhanced maneuverability, a more modern design, and the ability to integrate specialized tactical equipment.

Lenco responded by designing the BearCat, effectively creating a more compact and versatile derivative of its larger B.E.A.R. platform. The design philosophy behind the BearCat was to combine military-grade protection with a commercially available, heavy-duty truck chassis, which would ensure reliability, ease of maintenance, and a readily available supply chain for parts.

The core design features that defined the original BearCat, and which have been maintained and enhanced in its subsequent variants, include:

• Commercial Chassis Foundation: The BearCat is built on a heavily modified Ford F-550 Super Duty commercial truck chassis. This choice is strategic, providing a robust, widely available, and easily serviceable platform.
• Mil-Spec Steel Armor: The vehicle’s body is constructed from military-grade steel armor plate, typically ranging in thickness, designed to provide comprehensive ballistic protection against a wide array of small arms fire, including high-caliber assault rifles. The armor package also protects against blast, fragmentation, and other ballistic threats.
• Ballistic Glass: All windows are made from multi-layered ballistic glass, offering protection consistent with the vehicle’s armor level, ensuring visibility while maintaining security.
• Modular Design: The BearCat was designed with modularity in mind, allowing for customization to meet specific customer requirements. This included various interior layouts, seating configurations, and the integration of specialized equipment.
• Tactical Features: From its inception, the BearCat incorporated features vital for tactical operations, such as multiple gun ports, a rotating roof hatch (often with an optional weapon mount), and provisions for mounting additional equipment like battering rams or riot control systems.

The first LENCO BearCat rolled off the assembly line in August 2001. Its introduction was timely, coinciding with a heightened focus on domestic security following the events of September 11, 2001. Law enforcement agencies across the United States began to recognize the critical need for such protected vehicles for SWAT operations, active shooter response, hostage situations, and high-risk warrant service.

The BearCat quickly gained traction, becoming the preferred armored rescue vehicle for many police tactical units. Its combat-proven design, coupled with its adaptability and reliance on commercial components, allowed Lenco to scale production and meet the burgeoning demand from federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, as well as government and military clients both domestically and internationally. The initial success and ongoing feedback from operators led to the continuous development of numerous specialized variants, cementing the BearCat’s position as a versatile and indispensable tool for security forces worldwide.

Exhibitions and Early Public Appearances

While the LENCO BearCat’s genesis was rooted in direct user requirements and rapid development, its success swiftly propelled it onto the global stage of defense and security exhibitions. These showcases have been crucial for Lenco Armored Vehicles to demonstrate the BearCat’s proven capabilities, versatility, and continued evolution to a diverse audience of law enforcement, military, and government agencies worldwide.

Given its launch in August 2001, the BearCat would have quickly been presented at key domestic security and law enforcement trade shows in the United States, given its immediate target market. These would include:

• International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) Conference and Exposition: As the premier event for law enforcement leadership in the U.S., the IACP conference would have been an early and consistent platform for Lenco to showcase the BearCat. Its robust design and tactical utility would have resonated strongly with chiefs, sheriffs, and SWAT commanders seeking enhanced protection for their officers. The BearCat has been a staple at IACP for many years, highlighting its various applications and ongoing innovations.
• National Sheriffs’ Association (NSA) Conference and Trade Show: Similar to IACP, the NSA conference provides a vital forum for showcasing equipment relevant to sheriff’s departments, many of which operate tactical units. Lenco would have regularly exhibited the BearCat here, emphasizing its adaptability for both urban and rural law enforcement operations. For instance, Lenco exhibited a new four-door version of its BearCat G3 at the 2024 NSA Conference and Trade Show in Oklahoma City, demonstrating continuous updates.

As the BearCat’s reputation grew and its application expanded beyond purely domestic law enforcement to federal agencies and international customers, Lenco’s presence at larger, more international defense and security expos became more prominent:

• Eurosatory (Paris, France): This is one of the world’s largest international land and air-land defense and security exhibitions. Lenco Armored Vehicles made significant appearances at Eurosatory to showcase the BearCat’s capabilities to a global audience.
  • For example, Lenco notably displayed the BearCat SWAT APC at Eurosatory 2014 (June 16-20 in Paris), emphasizing its role as an armored personnel carrier for special operations. This was a key event for highlighting its versatility for various global security needs.
• IDEX (International Defense Exhibition and Conference – Abu Dhabi, UAE): As a major exhibition for the Middle East and wider international market, IDEX provided a critical platform for Lenco to present the BearCat, particularly given its increasing international sales to countries in the region. Lenco’s commitment to this market was underlined by their intent to showcase a full-scale model of the new BearCat X3 at IDEX 2017, following its earlier preview at IDEAS 2016.
• IDEAS (International Defence Exhibition and Seminar – Karachi, Pakistan): Lenco utilized IDEAS to expand its reach. At IDEAS 2016 (November 22-25), Lenco unveiled the new BearCat X3 all-terrain special operations vehicle, a pickup variant of the G3, highlighting its versatility for border security and special missions, particularly relevant to the regional context.
• SHOT Show (Las Vegas, USA): While primarily focused on shooting sports and outdoor products, SHOT Show also includes a significant law enforcement and tactical component. Lenco has a consistent presence here, demonstrating new features and options for the BearCat. Lenco showcased new BearCat lighting options at the 2025 SHOT Show, demonstrating ongoing customization and technological integration.

These consistent appearances at high-profile international exhibitions have been instrumental in solidifying the BearCat’s reputation, facilitating global sales, and showcasing its evolution to meet diverse and dynamic security challenges.

Users and Operators

The LENCO BearCat has achieved remarkable widespread adoption, becoming an indispensable asset for a diverse array of users ranging from local law enforcement to federal agencies and international military and security forces. Its reputation for robust protection and adaptability has made it a preferred choice for high-risk operations globally.

The primary and most numerous users of the BearCat are Law Enforcement Agencies across the United States:

• SWAT Teams: The BearCat is the quintessential “SWAT truck” in the U.S., used by hundreds of local police departments and sheriff’s offices for tactical deployments such as active shooter incidents, hostage rescue, high-risk warrant service, and barricaded suspect situations. Examples include the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD) Special Enforcement Bureau, New York City Police Department (NYPD) Emergency Service Unit (ESU), and Boston Police Department.
• Bomb Squads (EOD – Explosive Ordnance Disposal): The specialized “BombCat” variant is widely used by EOD units for safely transporting bomb technicians and their robots to the scene of suspicious packages or explosive devices.
• Patrol and Special Response: Some larger departments utilize BearCats for general patrol in high-crime areas or for rapid response to critical incidents, offering enhanced protection to officers.
• Fire and EMS: The “MedCat” (Medevac variant) and “FireCat” (firefighting variant) are used by Tactical EMS teams and fire departments for rescue and response in hazardous environments.

Beyond local law enforcement, numerous Federal Agencies within the United States rely on the BearCat:

• Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI): Used by FBI SWAT teams across the country for counter-terrorism operations, hostage rescue, and high-risk arrests.
• U.S. Department of Energy (DOE): Operates a large fleet of BearCats (over 80 units) at its various sites for security and response.
• U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE): Utilizes BearCats for its Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) Special Response Teams (SRT).
• U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP): Including Border Patrol Tactical Units (BORTAC), for border security operations.
• U.S. Marshals Service: For prisoner transport and fugitive apprehension.

The BearCat’s versatility and proven track record have also led to its adoption by Military and Government Agencies Internationally:

• Australia: All state and territory Police Tactical Groups in Australia operate BearCats, often with federal Australian Government funding for national counter-terrorism initiatives. The New South Wales Police Force, for example, acquired five new BearCats in 2025, bringing their fleet to six.
• Belgium: An operator of the BearCat.
• Canada: Used by various Canadian law enforcement agencies.
• Iraq: Has received BearCat vehicles.
• Morocco: The Moroccan Auxiliary Forces have acquired a substantial fleet of 88 BearCat armored vehicles in various configurations, including riot control, troop transport, communications, and SWAT variants. The BCIJ (Bureau Central d’Investigations Judiciaires), Morocco’s domestic intelligence unit and special forces, also utilize them.
• Netherlands: An operator of the BearCat.
• Pakistan: Used by certain security forces.
• South Korea: An operator of the BearCat.
• Taiwan: Has acquired BearCat vehicles.
• United Kingdom: Used by specialist police units.
• Ukraine: In the ongoing conflict, Ukraine has received some BearCat vehicles as part of military aid, utilizing them for protected transport and medical evacuation in high-threat environments.
• Various US Military Bases: BearCats are stationed at numerous US Army installations (e.g., Fort Carson, Fort Hood, Fort Riley, Fort Bragg) and in places like the 94th MP BN in Korea, primarily for base security, Quick Reaction Force (QRF) duties, and law enforcement support.

This extensive list of operators highlights the BearCat’s universal appeal and its adaptability to a wide range of security and defense roles across different geopolitical contexts.

Used Operations, Conflicts, and Wars

The LENCO BearCat has an extensive operational history, predominantly in domestic law enforcement and specialized military roles, where its protective capabilities have repeatedly proven vital in saving lives. While not typically a frontline combat vehicle in large-scale conventional wars, its role in high-threat scenarios, asymmetric conflicts, and critical security operations is undeniable.

Domestic Law Enforcement (United States):

• Active Shooter Incidents: The BearCat has been deployed to numerous active shooter situations across the U.S., allowing SWAT teams to safely approach and neutralize threats, extract civilians, and provide a protected command post. Its armor has withstood heavy gunfire in these terrifying scenarios, protecting officers. A notable example is a 2010 shootout in Athens, Texas, where a suspect fired 36 rounds from a semi-automatic AK-47 at a BearCat with minimal effect, allowing officers to safely resolve the situation.
• Hostage Rescue and Barricaded Suspects: It provides a critical armored shield for tactical teams during negotiations, entries, and the recovery of hostages or arrestees under fire. The ability to integrate tactical systems like elevated assault ramps (e.g., MARS, Liberator, ARC) further enhances its utility in these scenarios, allowing access to multi-story buildings or aircraft.
• High-Risk Warrant Service: For warrants involving dangerous individuals or suspected fortified locations, the BearCat enables law enforcement to execute operations with enhanced safety, providing cover and the ability to breach obstacles.
• Civil Unrest and Riot Control: Equipped with features like tear gas deployment nozzles, riot shields, and fire suppression systems (in the “Riot Control” variant), BearCats are used to manage large-scale disturbances, providing a protected presence and a platform for crowd control. They were notably deployed during protests in Ferguson, Missouri, in 2014.
• Natural Disasters and Emergency Response: The “MedCat” (Medevac) variant and its robust construction allow the BearCat to operate in hazardous environments, including flooded streets or areas affected by extreme weather, for search and rescue, medical evacuation, and disaster relief.
• Bomb Threat Response: The “BombCat” variant is essential for bomb disposal units, providing a secure mobile command center and a platform for deploying tactical robots to investigate and neutralize explosive devices, minimizing human exposure to danger.

International Military and Security Operations:

• Counter-Terrorism Operations: International special forces and counter-terrorism units in countries like Australia, Morocco, and Poland deploy BearCats for high-risk interdiction, direct action, and security operations against terrorist groups.
• Border Security: Countries with porous or dangerous borders, such as those in the Middle East and North Africa, utilize BearCats for protected patrol, interdiction, and rapid response to illicit cross-border activities.
• Training and Security on US Military Bases: BearCats serve as armored vehicles for Quick Reaction Forces (QRF) and military police units on US Army bases both domestically and overseas (e.g., in South Korea), providing critical security and response capabilities for base defense.
• Conflict Zones (e.g., Syria, Ukraine): While not designed for conventional warfare, BearCats have appeared in conflict zones where US forces and their partners operate. In Syria, they’ve been seen with US-backed forces. More recently, in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, BearCats received as military aid are being used by Ukrainian forces for protected troop transport and medical evacuation in areas under constant threat from artillery, mines, and drones. Their armor offers a vital layer of protection in these dangerous environments.

The operational history of the LENCO BearCat is a powerful narrative of its effectiveness in protecting personnel during some of the most dangerous and unpredictable missions, both domestically and internationally. Its adaptability has allowed it to serve in a wide array of roles, from critical life-saving rescue operations to counter-terrorism and security missions.

Contracts and Sales

The sales and contracts for the LENCO BearCat illustrate a remarkable success story driven by consistent demand from a global client base. While Lenco is a privately owned company and specific contract values are not always publicly disclosed, the sheer volume of vehicles produced and the number of agencies operating them speak volumes.

United States Domestic Sales:

• Hundreds of Law Enforcement Agencies: Since its introduction in 2001, the BearCat has been sold to over 1,000 state and local law enforcement agencies across all 50 states in the U.S. These are primarily individual or small batch purchases tailored to specific departmental needs.
• Federal Government Contracts: Lenco holds various cooperative purchasing contracts and Blanket Purchase Agreements (BPAs) with federal agencies, streamlining the procurement process.
  • U.S. Department of Energy (DoE): Has acquired over 80 BearCats for security at its various sites.
  • U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE): Awarded Lenco a BPA in 2021 that designated the company as the agency’s sole provider of armored vehicles through 2026. Between 2019 and 2022, ICE purchased Lenco vehicles worth millions, including a significant purchase of 10 BearCats.
  • U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP): Purchased several BearCats between 2006 and 2015 for border patrol and tactical units.
  • U.S. Special Operations Command (SOCOM): A very significant customer within the DoD, responsible for a large portion of the military-grade BearCat purchases, indicating their preference for the vehicle in specialized roles.
  • Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI): Continuously acquires BearCats for its field offices’ SWAT teams.
• Grant Funding: A substantial portion of BearCat purchases by local law enforcement agencies has been facilitated by federal grants (e.g., Homeland Security grants), and Lenco actively provides free grant assistance to agencies, demonstrating a comprehensive sales approach.
• State Cooperative Purchasing Contracts: Lenco also works with state-level cooperative purchasing alliances (e.g., New Jersey Cooperative Purchasing Alliance, State of Iowa), making procurement easier for municipalities within those states.

International Sales and Transfers:

Lenco has successfully expanded its market internationally, with BearCats in operation in over 40 countries worldwide. These sales often occur through direct commercial sales or via U.S. Foreign Military Sales (FMS) programs when destined for foreign military or security forces.

• Morocco: A notable international contract saw Lenco supply 88 BearCat armored vehicles to the Moroccan Auxiliary Forces, encompassing a range of variants for riot control, troop transport, and other security roles. This was a significant single contract.
• Australia: The consistent acquisition of BearCats by all state and territory Police Tactical Groups, often with federal funding, represents ongoing sales to a key ally. For example, the New South Wales Police Force acquired five new BearCats in 2025.
• Middle East & North Africa: Countries in the Middle East and North Africa have been significant markets, recognizing the BearCat’s robust protection for internal security and counter-terrorism.
• Ukraine: In a demonstration of its relevance in contemporary conflicts, a number of BearCats have been supplied to Ukraine as part of military aid packages from the United States since the full-scale invasion in 2022, highlighting its value in high-threat environments.

Lenco’s sales strategy combines direct relationships with agencies, leveraging commercial chassis for ease of acquisition and maintenance, and active participation in government contracting frameworks. This approach has led to over 6,000 BearCat vehicles produced and deployed globally since 2001, making it one of the most widely recognized and deployed armored tactical vehicles in the world.

Conclusion: The Enduring Shield of the LENCO BearCat

The LENCO BearCat is far more than just an armored vehicle; it is a symbol of resilience, a testament to responsive engineering, and a critical safeguard for those who confront danger head-on. Born from the precise needs of specialized law enforcement units in the early 2000s, it rapidly evolved from a concept into an indispensable asset, redefining protected mobility for a diverse array of security and military forces worldwide.

From its initial development in 2000, spurred by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, Lenco masterfully integrated military-grade steel armor and ballistic glass onto a rugged, commercially available Ford F-550 chassis. This foundational design choice delivered a vehicle that was not only exceptionally protective against a wide spectrum of threats, from small arms fire to explosives, but also boasted the reliability, ease of maintenance, and maneuverability crucial for tactical operations. Its rapid debut in August 2001 positioned it perfectly to meet the heightened security demands of the post-9/11 era.

The BearCat’s operational history is rich with countless instances where its robust design directly saved lives. Whether it was shielding SWAT officers from intense gunfire during active shooter incidents, enabling bomb technicians to safely neutralize explosive devices, or providing secure transport for special forces in volatile regions, the BearCat has consistently proven its worth in the crucible of real-world threats. It has played a pivotal role in domestic law enforcement’s response to critical incidents, as well as supporting military and security forces in asymmetric conflicts and complex security environments globally.

Moreover, the BearCat has not rested on its laurels. Lenco Armored Vehicles has continuously refined and diversified the platform, introducing a wide array of variants – from the off-road capable G3, the blast-protected G5, and the specialized BombCat and MedCat, to the versatile X3 utility variant. These innovations, often showcased at prominent international exhibitions like Eurosatory, IDEX, and AUSA, underscore Lenco’s commitment to adapting the BearCat to evolving threats and mission requirements. The integration of advanced features, including elevated tactics systems and counter-drone capabilities, further ensures its relevance for the challenges of tomorrow.

The sheer volume of contracts and sales, spanning hundreds of U.S. law enforcement agencies, multiple federal departments, and over 40 countries, cements the BearCat’s status as a global leader in its class. Its widespread adoption is a clear indicator of its proven effectiveness and the trust placed in its ability to protect personnel in the most dangerous situations.

In essence, the LENCO BearCat is more than just an armored truck; it is a vital tool that empowers tactical operators, peacekeepers, and soldiers to confront threats with confidence, ensuring they can complete their missions and return home safely. Its legacy is one of unwavering protection and adaptability, a testament to its enduring role as a guardian in a world that continues to demand the highest levels of security.

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