Latest figures from the insurer reveal that claims costs for theft of Defender vehicles have risen 14 % since the car rolled off the production line in early 2016 . Farmers , who rely on the iconic 4x4 to farm and tend to livestock , are finding their vehicles stripped of parts such as bonnets and doors , or stolen altogether as demand from across the globe increases .

Thefts of executive cars and luxury 4x4s have also spiked with the insurer reporting a significant rise in the cost of Range Rover theft in the past year .

NFU Mutual , which works closely with the National Vehicle Intelligence Service ( NaVCIS ), has traced stolen Range Rovers worth more than £ 75,000 each as far afield as Africa and the Far East .

One of the most recent vehicles to be repatriated by NFU Mutual was a Range Rover Sport insured by the company and worth over £ 60,000 , which was seized in Antwerp following an operation coordinated by NFU Mutual and NaVCIS . Another recovery , of two Range Rovers covered with mattresses and worth over £ 100,000 , was made from a shipping container in Felixstowe .

Clive Harris , Agricultural Vehicle Specialist at NFU Mutual , said : “ Whether they ’ re compromising keyless technology or dismantling Defenders , thieves are deploying a range of tactics to feed demand for classic and modern 4 x4s from organised criminal gangs operating

around the world .

“ While insurance can cover the cost of theft , it does not account for the inconvenience and business interruption experienced . People in rural areas are feeling increasingly vulnerable and farms , which rely on 4x4s for mobility as part their business , are left particularly hard hit .

“ We ’ re urging owners to ensure they have adequate security measures in place which can range from using aftermarket mechanical immobilisers such as a steering wheel locks to trackers and faraday box solutions , which block out signals .”

According to NFU Mutual claims data , the region with the highest cost of Land Rover Defender thefts last year was the Midlands , followed by the North East and South East .

NFU Mutual ’ s top tips for securing vehicles in the countryside Classic Land Rover Defender :

• Fit a mechanical immobiliser such as an industry accredited steering wheel or pedal lock

• Fit an accredited alarm for added security and consider adding a tracking or locating device

• Thieves will target component parts so consider marking them using a forensic marking solution or system

• Keep the vehicle in a lockable building or park in well-lit areas , which are overlooked

• Have the vehicle identification number etched on windows

• Consider fitting a hidden battery isolation or a fuel cut-off switch

• Take photographs of unusual features , modifications , damage or repairs which could aid identification if stolen

• Ensure any valuables are removed from the vehicle Modern 4 x 4s

• Keep electronic keys in a faraday packet or box at night