Defender and Red Cross: 70 years partners in emergency response

70 years

Since 1954, Defenders have been at the side of the Red Cross, ready to provide assistance in the most difficult situations.
This year marks 70 years since that first model, specially converted into a mobile dispensary, went into service.
A direct descendant of the original Land Rover Series 1, the Defender has played an important role in countless rescue missions since then.

Innovation in Italy

To celebrate this special milestone, Defender is introducing an innovative project in Italy, where the Red Cross was founded 160 years ago.
The Italian Red Cross will receive a specially equipped Defender 130, complete with satellite communications equipment.
The satellite dish on the roof allows emergency workers to communicate without depending on mobile networks, which often fail during disasters.
This technology allows the Red Cross to effectively coordinate and provide assistance even in the harshest conditions.

Global impact

The partnership between Defender and the Red Cross has helped more than two million people in more than 50 countries over the past seven decades.
Mark Cameron, Managing Director of Defender, emphasizes the importance of this partnership, “What began in the deserts of Dubai and the forests of Kenya in 1954 is now an integral part of our mission. Together we provide vital assistance to humanity, often when the roads stop and conditions are at their toughest.”

International projects

Defender is participating in several celebrations and fundraising events this year to support its partnership with the Red Cross.
From Nepal to Australia, Switzerland to Morocco, the impact of this partnership is being felt around the world.
In Nepal, Defenders help vulnerable communities prepare for natural disasters.
In Australia, they support local relief teams in disaster-prone areas.
In Switzerland, they help train tracking dogs, and in Morocco they are crucial in disaster response.