Defence opts for quality and flexibility
Swingarm for the Fennek
Within the defence sector, quality, precision, and reliability are fundamental requirements. As a supplier within this chain, we therefore comply with strict standards that apply to the entire process—from order intake and engineering to production and delivery. Confidentiality often plays an important role in this context. In this specific case, however, that is not applicable, allowing us to provide insight into the product and the solution delivered: a swingarm for the Fennek.
geheimhouding
Mechanical engineering, Engineering machines
Light, fast, and flexible
Equipment must match mobility
The Fennek is a light, fast, and highly manoeuvrable defence vehicle, primarily deployed for reconnaissance missions. The vehicle is fitted with ceramic armour that provides protection against medium-calibre fire, while its low weight contributes to its high mobility.
To fully exploit this mobility, a solution was required for mounting a movable weapon system. For this purpose, the client designed a swingarm that meets the vehicle’s functional and operational requirements.
Leverage effect and flexibility
The swingarm enables flexible deployment of heavier weapon systems. In the locked position, the construction provides a stable and rigid setup. When unlocked, the mounted weapon can be smoothly rotated through 360°, while maintaining sufficient stability to safely absorb and control recoil forces.
Even minimal play in the system can, due to the length of the arm, result in a significant leverage effect—particularly under high loads such as recoil. This places stringent demands on the design, material selection, and tolerances.
The result is a solution that combines maximum flexibility with reliability, without compromising on quality or structural stability.
From drawing to delivery
The development process
This robustly designed product, developed by the client, was optimised and refined with support from our engineering expertise and production experience.
Based on a build-to-print approach—where the design and technical drawings were supplied by the client—we defined the required disciplines and production steps to achieve a fully functional end product.
For both defence and the client, traceability and documentation are essential. The majority of the swingarm components were manufactured and assembled in-house. Standard fastening elements, such as bolts, nuts, and locking pins, are sourced from pre-approved preferred suppliers.
In this project, Tuinte does not supply defence directly, but delivers to the client. Within this collaboration, reliability and predictability are critical: agreements are honoured, and delivered performance aligns with what was agreed upon in advance.
Applied technical disciplines
- CNC turning and CNC milling of components
- Certified welding (ferrous materials; MIG/MAG)
- Mechanical post-processing (hardening and grinding)
- Chemical post-treatment for corrosion protection
- Customer-specific coating, including masking of surfaces with critical tolerances
- Assembly (final assembly on the vehicle performed by the client)
Documentation and chain responsibility
Safeguarding quality for defence
Not every company is able to meet the requirements imposed by clients in the defence sector. While multiple parties may be technically capable of manufacturing a similar product, the necessary level of process control, documentation, and demonstrable quality is often lacking.
Our systems are designed to fully record and document the traceability of every component used. This applies to material selection, processing steps, suppliers, and quality inspections throughout the entire process.
The client chooses Tuinte because of its proven track record, organisational maturity, experience with complex projects, and the consistent delivery of demonstrable quality.
Why does the client choose Tuinte?
- Full traceability of all components
- Accurate and complete documentation
- Collaboration with preferred suppliers
- Professional project management
- Systematically structured order process
- Consistent quality in in-house production
- Cost-efficient production through standardisation and automation
