Armormax unveils stealth-armoured Ford Ranger for high-risk patrols

THE DESIRE to feel safe and secure must be top of the list of many, if not most, if not all South Africans, except perhaps some criminal elements who thrive on anarchy. 

To this end, having the peace of mind that a neighbourhood watch, or security company, is on patrol while we sleep safe and snug in our beds, is a massive bonus. But what about the young men doing patrol at night? 

What about those in the security industry who, alongside the police, are tasked with being at the spearpoint of the fight against crime? How does a wife or mother sleep at night knowing that their son or husband is out on the streets, where armed, aggressive and violent criminals do not take kindly to being derailed from their nefarious plans? 

Well, for these concerned family members, there could be some added peace of mind available — in the form of a new armoured Ford Ranger.

Armormax South Africa, a specialist in vehicle protection systems, has released a discreet but highly capable armoured variant of the popular Ford Ranger Double Cab, designed specifically for patrol and intercept missions in hostile or unpredictable environments.

Built for the frontline, not just for show

One year after being named a Ford Qualified Vehicle Modifier (QVM), Armormax undertook a bespoke project: to create a vehicle that can withstand attacks from assault rifles in rough terrain while remaining low-profile and reliable over the long term.

The result is a B6-rated armoured vehicle that doesn’t look armoured at all.

The vehicle uses lightweight ballistic materials, including imported steel and composite armouring, that provide full B6 protection (capable of withstanding AK-47 fire) while adding just 519 kg to the vehicle’s weight – far less than traditional armoured builds.

Importantly, all OEM panels and mounting points are preserved. “It had to be discreet and capable – without compromising either quality or performance,” said Michael Broom, Armormax SA’s Marketing Manager.

Hidden armour, clever design

The Ranger’s standard body remains intact, but beneath the surface lies a host of safety upgrades:

• Ballistic glass from Optima and Phoenix, designed to mimic standard windows
• A rear window escape hatch with a quick-release design for rollover scenarios
• Armoured fuel tank and sealed battery/ECU compartments

Also, the two rear doors and front passenger door have been fitted with bespoke sliding gun ports capable of accommodating the muzzle of any assault firearm and have been ergonomically positioned for an operator to comfortably discharge a weapon from inside the vehicle. These were chosen over the traditional glass-mounted round ports to keep the vehicle as discreet as possible.

Eyes in the dark

Armormax also equipped the vehicle with night visibility tools, ideal for rural patrols or silent operations:

• LED light bars for side and rear illumination when visibility is needed – in instances where discretion is not required. This illuminates a large area around the vehicle.
• White strobe lights for signalling
• A roof-mounted rotating spotlight with remote control
• An infrared thermal imaging camera linked to an in-vehicle tablet for low-speed driving and surveillance in pitch darkness

All tech is powered by a secondary battery with REDARC smart charging, ensuring independent operation even when the engine is off.

Communication, mobility and off-road muscle

Inside, the Ranger is fitted with a PA system, integrated siren, and short-range push-to-talk system for crew coordination. An upgraded Old Man Emu suspension system handles rough terrain and heavy loads, while military-grade run-flat systems keep the vehicle moving even with punctured tyres.

Designed to protect, built to perform

“The challenge was to blend robust armouring with discretion and mobility,” Broom said. “We believe this vehicle meets that challenge – and then some. It’s practical, functional, and ultimately built to protect those who protect us.”

The base vehicle used was a 2.0 Turbo Diesel XL 4x4 Automatic, but the conversion is available for most Ford Ranger Double Cab models (excluding Raptors due to lower GVM limits). Crucially, the upgrade does not affect Ford’s original warranty or service plans.

Cost and coverage

The full conversion package – including all fitments and accessories – is priced at R1,043,478.26 excluding VAT and the vehicle itself. A three-year warranty is offered on all armouring components and workmanship.