The Iveco-Oto Melara Consortium (CIO) announced on 30 December that it has signed a contract with the Direzione Armamenti Terrestri (DAT) of the Italian Ministry of Defence to deliver 76 VBM PLUS 8×8 armoured vehicles to the Italian Army.
This contract is part of the of the ongoing supply (“Phase 2”) of medium armoured vehicles to the Italian Army’s Second Medium Brigade and will see the Italian Army receive 76 VBM PLUS armoured vehicles, of which 60 will be the “Combat” variant and 16 will be the “Antitank” variant, equipped with guided anti-tank capabilities.
It includes an upgrade to the “PLUS” version of the VBM platforms already in service and provides long-term integrated logistics support for all acquired platforms. Additionally, it includes 10×10 rescue and recovery vehicles, which will ensure logistical compatibility among the various tactical platforms in operation, representing advanced vehicles in terms of mobility and protection.
The enhancement of the VBM “Combat” and “Antitank” in the “PLUS” version introduces modifications to both the vehicle and the turret.
Concerning the vehicle, the modifications encompass advancements in common rail technology for the engine, elevating its power from 550 HP to 720 HP in preparation for a future hybrid-electric propulsion system; the introduction of a new generation hull, derived from the insights gained over the years with the Centauro II and VBM platforms; improvements to the driveline and suspension systems, resulting in a notable enhancement in mobility and an increased potential for future growth. These enhancements will also contribute to a further augmentation of the hull’s ballistic and anti-mine protection through the application of state-of-the-art technological solutions.
A new 30mm gun, the X-GUN developed by Leonardo, has been integrated into the turret. This system is designed to accommodate a wide range of ammunition, from 30mmx173 to NATO specifications, including the innovative Air Burst Munition (ABM), which is also effective against drones. The primary enhancements to the turret focus on the firing system provided by Leonardo, featuring state-of-the-art electronic components that adhere to the latest NATO Generic Vehicle Architecture (NGVA) standards. These components are capable of interfacing with the advanced digitized optronics for targeting and search, specifically the “Janus D” and “Lothar SD” systems.
The upgraded turret offers the crew enhanced ballistic and anti-mine protection relative to its predecessor. Additionally, the contract encompasses the provision of a new digital intercom system and a thoroughly revised Command Information System (CIS), which incorporates the SDR VQ1 four-channel radio and the newly developed Command and Control system, referred to as C2D/N Evo, both supplied by Leonardo.
The latest VBM PLUS platform features enhanced mobility, protection, lethality, and integrated C4I capabilities, enabling the Italian Army to tackle future challenges with a cutting-edge vehicle that is seamlessly integrated into the net-centric framework of the digital battlefield. Additionally, the vehicle will feature Galileo PRS technology, which has been developed in Italy as part of the European Union’s secure satellite navigation initiative. Specifically, this entails that the VBM will incorporate a newly designed satellite receiver, the first of its kind, capable of accessing secure satellite navigation services from both the US GPS and the European Galileo PRS systems.
VBM Freccia
The VBM-Freccia is a family of 8×8 armoured vehicles specifically designed and produced for the Italian Army, entering service in 2008. IVECO was responsible for the hull, engine, and suspension, while OTO Melara provided the armament. The initial variant developed was the Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV), with the Freccia featuring a Hitfist turret, identical to that found on the Dardo IFV.
The Italian Army sought a replacement for several M113 variants from the Cold War period, including the VCC-1 infantry fighting vehicle, the VCC-2 armored personnel carrier, and the M106 mortar carrier. The Dardo IFV succeeded the VCC-1 IFV. Additionally, the Freccia was procured to replace the Cold War-era VCC-2 armored personnel carriers utilized by the Mechanized Brigade “Pinerolo” in Southern Italy.
The decision to adopt a wheeled platform stemmed from a shift in military doctrine favoring more mobile vehicles. To enhance infantry support, a turret was chosen for the successor to the VCC-2 APC variant, thereby augmenting the capabilities and firepower of the infantry brigades.
The Italian Army also employs various other variants, including command post vehicles and mortar carriers.
