Birdon

BRIDGE ERECTION BOATS (BEB)

In its primary mission mode, the BEB provides propulsion, thrust, and stabilization to support worldwide tactical float bridging and rafting operations. It is specifically designed to provide high thrust and operate in high particulate matter environments including in fresh, brackish, and seawater. All functions of the BEB can be performed by a two-person crew. The unique and flexible design of the BEB means it can integrate with most customer-specific transport systems. Birdon has also developed a next-generation control system capable of remote and autonomous operations.

The Swedish Defense Material Administration, on behalf of the Swedish Armed Forces selected Birdon to supply Bridge Erection Boats (BEBs) that will provide wet gap crossing capability during military operations and support disaster relief efforts such as floods.
The first BEBs was delivered in February 2025.

Sweden will be the first country to utilize the complete Wet Gap Crossing (WGC)solution of Improved Ribbon Bridge (IRB) and M3 Amphibious Bridge from General Dynamics European Land Systems with the Birdon BEB. The BEB is essential for the support of the M3 Amphibious Bridge as it is purpose-built and adds the multi-purpose capability required for modern WGC needs of army engineers.

Currently, civilian agencies in Europe do not have the capability to respond quickly to failures of bridges. Birdon’s purpose-designed and built BEBs will play a vital role in filling this gap while meeting the demands of Sweden’s extreme conditions such as fast-flowing, shallow rivers and extreme cold.