Italy orders new wheeled fighting vehicles
The Iveco-Oto Melara Società Consortile (CIO) has finalized a contract with Italy’s Directorate of Land Armaments (DAT) to deliver 76 VBM Plus 8×8 armored vehicles to the Italian Army.
The agreement includes 60 combat variants and 16 anti-tank carriers, alongside comprehensive logistics support and new recovery vehicles.
The VBM Plus, an evolution of the Freccia platform, introduces upgraded mobility, enhanced firepower, and next-generation command systems.
The VBM Plus platform incorporates a new-generation chassis adapted from the 8×8 Centauro II and VBA models, featuring an upgraded engine that delivers 720 horsepower, up from the previous 550 horsepower. This improvement is enabled by a Common Rail system and supports future hybrid-electric architecture. Additionally, enhancements to the transmission and suspension systems provide improved mobility in diverse terrain.
Key upgrades to the combat vehicles include the integration of Leonardo’s newly developed 30mm X-GUN turret, replacing the older 25mm model. The X-GUN can fire NATO-standard 30x173mm ammunition, including Air Burst Munitions (ABM), making it highly effective against drones and other aerial threats.
The VBM Plus features a modernized fire control system with cutting-edge electronics adhering to NATO Generic Vehicle Architecture (NGVA) standards. New digital detection optics (JANUS D) and targeting optics (LOTHAR SD) have been integrated to enhance situational awareness and precision targeting.
For communication and command capabilities, the vehicles will be equipped with advanced digital intercoms, four-channel SDR (Software Defined Radio) systems, and the C2D/N EVO command and control system. These upgrades ensure seamless coordination on the battlefield.
The anti-tank variants will be armed with dual SPIKE missile launchers, providing the Italian Army with a robust solution against armored threats. The SPIKE system, renowned for its precision and range, reinforces Italy’s capacity to neutralize advanced enemy armor effectively.
In addition to the VBM Plus vehicles, the agreement includes the delivery of new 10×10 recovery vehicles and a multi-year integrated logistics support package.
