Technology: France Modernizes Engineer Troops with New SDZ Robotic Demining System and Griffon Armored Vehicles.

The French Army continues to modernize its engineering capabilities with the induction of new-generation combat engineering vehicles into the 19th Engineer Regiment of the French Army. These modern platforms, which include a specially configured version of the Griffon 6x6 armored vehicle tailored for engineer missions and the advanced SDZ (Zone Demining System) robotic demining tracked vehicle, are set to replace the aging EBG (Engin Blindé du Génie - Engineer Armored Vehicle) fleet base on the AMX-30 tank tracked chassis. This transition represents a major leap forward in both tactical mobility and counter-explosive capabilities within the French armed forces.
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The French army's 19th Engineer Regiment is now equipped with the SDZ robotic vehicle for high-efficiency mechanical mine clearance, enhancing force protection and operational mobility. (Picture source: French army 19th Engineer Regiment)

The engineer variant of the Griffon 6x6 multi-role armored vehicle enhances operational flexibility by integrating tools and systems specific to engineering and EOD operations. Maintaining the high mobility, protection, and networked command systems of the baseline Griffon, this variant supports a wide array of field engineering tasks, from fortification to mine clearance support. It is designed to enable combat engineers to accompany frontline troops in high-threat environments while benefiting from armored protection and digital integration under the SCORPION program.

At the forefront of this technological evolution is the SDZ (Zone Demining System), a next-generation robotic tracked vehicle that sets new benchmarks in autonomous mine clearance. Developed to perform high-speed mechanical demining across contaminated environments, the SDZ combines rugged engineering with advanced control systems to meet both military and humanitarian clearance needs.

Technically, the SDZ is engineered for both power and precision. It features a robust tracked chassis with steel and rubber-padded treads that offer strong mobility on diverse terrain. With a ground clearance of 479 mm and a maximum speed of 10 km/h, it can operate efficiently in challenging field conditions. The vehicle alone weighs 9,500 kg, while its full configuration with the demining tiller reaches 12,000 kg. Its dimensions—5.90 meters in length with the tiller and 2.85 meters in width—make it compact enough for operational deployment yet wide enough to effectively clear broad lanes through mined areas.

At its core, the SDZ is powered by a Deutz 250 horsepower diesel engine, which offers both high performance and fuel efficiency. With a fuel tank capacity of 325 liters, the vehicle is capable of extended field operations without frequent refueling, a crucial feature in sustained military or humanitarian missions.

Its mine-clearing capacity is particularly noteworthy. The SDZ can penetrate up to 30 centimeters in depth and clear a 2.1-meter wide path at a minimum rate of 500 square meters per hour. This high throughput makes it ideal for rapid route clearance ahead of advancing mechanized units or for opening up access in post-conflict zones. Its design complies with CWA 15044 standards, under which it was tested using live anti-personnel and anti-tank mines. The result: a 100% neutralization rate, either by detonation or destruction, validating its operational reliability.

For operational safety and versatility, the SDZ is entirely remotely controlled, either via visual line-of-sight or from within armored vehicles. It is equipped with GPS navigation and high-resolution cameras, providing operators with full situational awareness and the ability to execute complex maneuvers under cover. The vehicle’s onboard console offers a full spectrum of commands, ensuring precise control over all functions and tools, even in hostile environments.

One of the SDZ’s most distinctive attributes is its modularity. It is capable of deploying an array of interchangeable tools, including a flail, auger, backhoe, segregator bucket, standard bucket, and dozer blade. This flexibility allows the SDZ to not only clear mines but also relocate or destroy explosive ordnance, excavate defensive positions, and remove battlefield debris, making it a true multi-role asset for modern engineer regiments.

With the integration of both the Griffon engineer variant and the SDZ into its force structure, the 19th Engineer Regiment is now equipped to execute complex engineering tasks at a much higher tempo and with improved force protection. These systems enhance the Army’s ability to conduct breach operations, secure routes, and enable recovery and development in post-conflict scenarios—ranging from road and infrastructure repair to restoring agricultural use in once-contaminated areas.

This capability upgrade falls directly under the umbrella of the SCORPION modernization program, France’s overarching effort to digitize and network its land forces. It ensures the French Army maintains a strategic edge in explosive threat mitigation and battlefield support across multi-domain operations.

The new engineer variant of the Griffon 6x6 armored vehicle, now deployed with the 19th Engineer Regiment, tailored for combat support and EOD operations. (Picture source: French Army 31st Engineer Regiment)