The MSV, which contains a range of James Bond-style spy gadgets such as sensor automation, automatic target movement detection and target tracking, provides long-range, 360 degree, day and night surveillance capability.

The MSV was designed by the South African affiliate of the German company, Carl Zeiss Optronics (CZO), in partnership with security systems company Afrisec.

"The vehicle is expected to play an important role in South African border control and crime fighting operations in the future," according to a statement from Carl Zeiss.

The MSV features state-of-the-art sensors, including a camera with 36x zoom lens, high-resolution thermal imager for night surveillance and an eye-safe laser rangefinder for target location.

The vehicle's sensors are mounted on a mast, which emerges from the vehicle's roof. Any suspicious activities are displayed on a digital map to help find suspects.

"To reduce operator fatigue, the MSV utilises sensor automation, automatic target movement detection, target tracking, and situational recording.

"Video footage can also be beamed to a central control room for remote observation.

For under-cover operations the vehicle is fitted with a driver's thermal camera, which enables the vehicle to be positioned to a strategic location in total darkness without use of its headlights."

The vehicle's sensor system is based on high-technology observation and surveillance equipment used by aircraft and ground forces.

The first MSV would be delivered to the Nelson Mandela Bay Metro, with further orders expected from other municipalities.

The vehicle's primary function was to proactively combat electrical infrastructure and non-ferrous metal theft.