GM Defense has been selected to supply next-generation Suburban Shield armored vehicles to the Qatar Armed Forces and Special Forces Command. The vehicles will be used for protected diplomatic security and VIP transport, further enhancing Qatar’s security capabilities.
The Suburban Shield is based on General Motors’ full-size pickup truck and SUV architecture, featuring a high percentage of commercial parts such as the body, exterior, propulsion, interior, and brakes. The vehicle is designed with a unique body-on-frame chassis and suspension system to support the increased weight and performance needs of an armored vehicle.
“We engineered the Suburban Shield from the ground up as a protected vehicle using GM’s world-class processes and tools to deliver the reliability and quality expected from a GM vehicle,” said Steve duMont, President of GM Defense. “We’re confident that the vehicle will assist the Qatar Armed Forces in their important diplomatic security missions.”
GM Defense's approach to integrating protective armor into the original vehicle design, rather than relying on after-market modifications, represents a significant advancement in armored vehicle production. This ensures that the vehicle meets GM’s rigorous commercial standards while providing superior protection and reliability.
Suburban Shield vehicles also benefit from GM’s advanced technologies, engineering expertise, and global quality management systems, setting them apart from traditional defense contractor offerings.
In addition to supporting Qatar’s defense needs, GM Defense is also providing customized Suburban Shields to the U.S. Department of State's Diplomatic Security Service (DSS) to bolster its Heavy-Duty Armored SUV program.
