Mercedes-Benz identified a possible need for a new generation of globally deployable support vehicles for use in prolonged low-intensity operations.

A number of subsequent studies led to the development of the S2000 family. To achieve economies of scale, it was deemed essential that the S2000 family should be suitable for civilian use, both in Europe and developing countries.

Mercedes-Benz concluded that the desired levels of tactical mobility could be achieved at an affordable price by using a 'parts box' approach to its commercial driveline components. However, strategic mobility and crew-protection requirements could not be achieved using the latest generation of commercial cabs.

Mayflower Vehicle Systems of the UK designed a new modular cab for the S2000 family. Two- and three-axle chassis are bonneted, while the four-axle chassis are of COE design. All cabs use the same three-seat crew module.

A lit as required' internal applique armouring kit is available for the cab. This is a further development of a concept developed by Krauss-Maffei Wegmann and fitted to Mercedes-Benz trucks of the Norwegian and German armies during 1995. As standard, the S2000 cab features a 7mm armoured steel floor that, in addition to providing mounting for the applique armour panels, provides anti-personnel mine protection. Ballistic and mine-blast protection-level options are available.

With the exception of the automatic gearbox option, all major driveline components are designed, developed and manufactured by DaimlerChrysler.

Mercedes-Benz 900 Series engines developing 280hp and 326hp power the 4 x 4 and 6 x 6 chassis, respectively, for which G VWs are 16 and 23 tonnes.

The 8 x 8 chassis is powered by a 457 Series engine developing 428hp. The GVW is 31 tonnes.

The S2000 family is built around a C-section chassis that is used as the basis for Actros all-wheel-drive commercial construction variants. Two- and three-axle S2000 family chassis are C-130 air-portable.

In standard configuration, all S2000 family trucks meet Improved Medium Mobility as defined by Def Stan 23-6.