A few years ago, Belgium ordered a modernization for the Pandur 1 AFV, so that they would provide sufficient protection for deployment as part of Belgiums contingent for peace-keeping missions in Africa scheduled in 2021 (although deliveries are currently expected by 2022). Main focus was increase mine protection and ballistic protection to sufficient levels. The value of the contract was €31 million.
The Belgian Green Party has now cited an official report mentioning that the upgraded Pandur 1s (7 out of 44 already delivered) are considered not suited for operation, as only soldiers up to a height of 1.7 m (5'5'') actually fit into the vehicle. The main problem is the driver's seat, but also the entry in the vehicle is through the obstructed. Furthermore the mobility of the vehicle is degraded.
The Belgian army responded to the claims that they haven't yet paid much of the agreed contract, that some performance/ergonomic losses are expected with upgrades, that the problems would not be that relevant and that they want to make use of warranty if required.

Proposal found unsatisfactory on all fronts:
-Non-compliance with technical requirements
-Failure to comply with the deadlines
-Lack of integration of industrial components required for hull or the turrets under study
-Lack of financial guarantees for possible cost overruns in respect of the amount approved as the program's expenditure ceiling

В следующем году готовится к принятию на вооружение новейший подвижный пункт разведки и целеуказания для ракетно-артиллерийских систем ПРП-5 на гусеничной и колёсной базе.