Description
1979 Land Rover Series III 109 FFR – Ex-British Army, Desert Sand
The “Yes” answers in the Vehicle Background section were selected in error – this Land Rover has never been imported, has no outstanding finance, has never been a total loss, and has had no major structural repairs
This 1979 Series III 109 Fitted For Radio (FFR) started life in the British Territorial Army, believed to have been a radio truck with the 4/ 5 Rangers (V) and 57 Log Sp Sqn RLC. Being a “soft-skinned” vehicle, it likely saw minimal active service and much of its life in storage. It retains its authentic military character, complete with some original fixtures, fittings, and Dexion radio racking.
Engine & Drive:
2. 25-litre petrol engine with 4-speed manual gearbox and 2-speed transfer case. Runs and drives well, starts reliably hot or cold. Gear changes are smooth for a Series III, and 4WD engages as it should. Since my ownership it has been serviced annually, with oil, filters, plugs, and ignition components replaced as needed. Fuel system flushed and carburettor cleaned last year.
Bodywork & Chassis:
Finished in Desert Sand over NATO Green interior. Structurally sound for its age, with the chassis undersealed. There is some surface corrosion on the rear leaf springs and bulkhead (under bonnet), but nothing requiring immediate attention. Front right wing has been repaired in the past, and the rear crossmember has been replaced with a non-military type. Paintwork carries marks, small dents, and chips consistent with military service and 45 years of use – this is not a freshly restored show car, but it wears its patina honestly.
Interior:
Two front and two rear black vinyl seats in good condition. Floors and footwells are solid, fitted with rubber mats. Original military fittings and radio mountings still in place, adding to its authenticity. Newer Exmoor Trim black canvas with side windows fitted (original green canvas included).
Wheels & Tyres:
Body-coloured 16" steel wheels with matching set of Goodyear G90 MT tyres in good condition.
Known Issues / Future Attention:
Minor corrosion in bulkhead and rear springs as noted
Ventilation flap on driver’s side is loose
Paintwork is aged with cosmetic blemishes
Heater is basic and slow to warm (typical of Series Land Rovers)
Included with sale:
Original green military canopy
Exmoor Trim Black canopy
Original front and rear seats
Dexion radio racking
History file and spare key
This is a genuine, usable ex-military Land Rover with classic Series III charm. It’s ready to use as is for shows, green laning, or weekend drives, with the option to continue cosmetic improvements over time. My brother and I bought this ex-British Army Series III 109 FFR because we wanted something with character, history, and have a love for Defenders. It’s tough, simple, and gets attention wherever it goes – proper old-school Land Rover motoring.
Believed to have served with the 4/ 5 Rangers (V) and 57 Log Sp Sqn RLC in Northern Ireland, it still has its original military fittings and Dexion radio racking. Finished in Desert Sand with a black Exmoor Trim canopy (original green one included), it’s solid, starts easily, and drives exactly as a Series should.
We’re only selling because we’ve sold our house and lost the space for it. If you want a usable, genuine ex-Army Landy with bags of character and plenty of potential, this is it.
