The first batch of Panther Command and Liaison Vehicles has been delivered to troops on operations, complete with the latest battle-ready upgrades.

Throughout summer 2009 the Army and RAF are replacing some of the in-service CVR(T)s, TUMs, Saxon and FV432 vehicles.

1 Mechanized Brigade are the first formation to receive Panther, followed by Div Troops from 3 (UK) Division and 4 Mechanised Brigade.

Weighing 7 tonnes, Panther is air transportable, and can be underslung beneath a Chinook helicopter. Panther is armed with a 7.62 mm L7 general purpose machine gun equipped Remote Weapon Station, which can be upgraded to a 12.7 mm/cal weapon if required, and an appropriate day/night sighting system. The armoured citadel provides crew protection from small-arms fire and Level 3 blast mines.

Panther will be in widespread use with Various Commanders, Sergeant Majors, and Liaison Officers for Armoured, Armoured Recce and Armoured Infantry Units. Panther will also be used as the Commander's vehicle for Engineer Troops, Anti-Tank, Mortar and supporting fire platoons. It will be used to rebroadcast on Battlegroup nets and by Regimental Signal Officers.