The Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) has signed a seven-year framework agreement with Yamaha Motor Europe N.V. in Sweden for the delivery of up to 2,500 dispatch motorcycles. The new motorcycle, a winter-equipped version of the Yamaha XT250, will replace the current MC258 model from the 1970s, according to FMV in a press release.

The motorcycle is adapted for winter use and can be equipped with, among other things, skis, a winter brake, and a winter gear system. The purpose is to replicate the functionality found in the current dispatch motorcycle.

"The new dispatch motorcycle must be able to be equipped with skis, a winter brake, and a winter gear system in order to be operated in winter conditions in a manner equivalent to the current dispatch motorcycle, the MC258 Huskvarna," says Stefan Pålsson, systems engineer at FMV.

As a first step, FMV has placed an order for 1,000 motorcycles. The first deliveries are planned for spring 2026, when instructor training is set to begin. During the autumn of the same year, the Swedish Armed Forces (Försvarsmakten) plan to conduct the first training courses for dispatch riders, followed by successive deliveries through to the end of the first quarter of 2027.

The motorcycle is a civilian model that has been modified to meet the needs of the Swedish Armed Forces. FMV, together with the Swedish Armed Forces and the Voluntary Motorcycle Corps (Frivilliga motorcykelkåren, FMCK), has conducted extensive testing in both summer and winter conditions, as well as in off-road terrain and on public roads.

"The Swedish Armed Forces have a significant need for vehicles, and this applies to motorcycles as well, where the ageing fleet needs to begin being replaced. With these motorcycles, FMV hopes that the Swedish Armed Forces will be able to establish a solid foundation for dispatch service requirements," says Stefan Pålsson.