Italian defense and aerospace group Leonardo announced on Monday that the Iveco-Oto Melara Consortium (CIO) announced the signing of a contract for the supply of 14 VBM Carriers, 26 VBM Commands (13 in the Unit) Tactical and 13 in the Commanding Unit version), along with six “10×10” rescue and recovery vehicles.
According to a company statement, the new contract comes as part of the ongoing supply (“Phase 2”) of Medium Armored Vehicles to the Italian Army’s Second Medium Brigade, and includes an upgrade to “PLUS” version for the VBM Freccia platform, as well as long-term integrated logistics support for all purchased platforms.
The VBM Combat “PLUS” version will have changes to both the vehicle and the turret. Changes to the car include an upgrade to common rail technology for the engine, bringing the engine from 550 HP to 660 HP ready for future hybrid-electric traction systems, and upgraded steering, increasing growth potential up to 15% compared to current level.
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As for the turret, Leonardo is upgrading the fire control system, introducing the latest generation of electronic components capable of interfacing with the digital optical sighting and detection systems “Janus D” and “Lothar” new D”. The contract also includes the delivery of a new digital intercom and a fully upgraded CIS system with a four-channel SDR VQ1 radio, as well as a new C2D/N Evo Command and Control system. , both developed by Leonardo.
The new VBM PLUS sets itself apart with increased mobility, lethality and integrated C4I, allowing the Italian Army to face the challenges of the coming years with a truly modern, integrated vehicle. into the central architecture of the digital battlefield. The vehicle will also be equipped with Galileo PRS technology developed in Italy as part of the European Union’s secure satellite navigation system. Specifically, this means that the VBM will be equipped with a newly developed satellite receiver, the first of its kind capable of receiving secure satellite navigation services from the whole system. US GPS and Europe’s Galileo PRS.
In a nutshell, the Iveco Defense Vehicle Recovery and Rescue platforms feature 4-wheel drive on 5 axles, with 3 drive axles, a 680 HP Cursor 16 engine from FPT Industrial, and a newly designed cabin that provides standards Protect the highest crew. These vehicles can lift and move loads up to 25 tons from a stable platform and recover damaged, damaged or overturned vehicles with an overall weight of up to 32 tons.
Iveco – Oto Melara Consortium was established in 1985 on the basis of equal participation between Iveco Defense Vehicle and the former Oto Melara, now Leonardo.
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