Representatives of Force Protection Industries, the U.S. Government and the British Ministry of Defence gathered as Force Protection rolled out the first five new Ridgback vehicles developed specifically for the British Ministry of Defence (MOD).

The Ridgback is comparable to Force Protection's Cougar 4x4 vehicle.

"The delivery of the first five Ridgback vehicles represents an important step in our continuing efforts to provide critical protection for the British forces.

"Through the efforts of many people within Force Protection, we are able to deliver these first Ridgback vehicles one month ahead of schedule," said Michael Moody, chief executive officer.

The British Ministry of Defence has ordered 157 Ridgback vehicles for a total cost of approximately $94 million.

Although the British Ministry of Defence has used the Cougar 6x6 (Mastiff) since late 2006, this is the first Ridgback delivery to the United Kingdom.