Exclusive: Ireland could soon purchase French armored vehicles following Belgium’s CaMo model.

As reported by French Aid to Ukraine on February 12, 2025, Ireland is considering the acquisition of French armored vehicles from the Scorpion program, including the Griffon, Jaguar, and Serval, following the example set by Belgium’s CaMo program. This was stated by Alexandre Dupuy, Director of System Activities at KNDS France, during his hearing before the French National Assembly’s Defense Commission on February 12, 2025. While discussions regarding the acquisition are ongoing, the precise terms of a potential agreement remain undefined.
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Into the French Scorpion program, the Griffon serves for troop transport and support, the Jaguar functions as a reconnaissance and combat vehicle, and the Serval is designed for rapid deployment and reconnaissance missions. (Picture source: French Army)

The Scorpion program is a French Army modernization initiative aimed at improving interoperability, digital connectivity, and command-and-control capabilities across ground forces. Officially launched in 2014, the program was developed in response to operational requirements outlined in the 2013 French White Paper on Defense and National Security. It encompasses the introduction of a network-centric warfare system, integrating the Scorpion Combat Information System (SICS), which standardizes communication and data-sharing among units. The program also includes the adoption of the Thales CONTACT software-defined radio, enabling the secure real-time exchange of voice and data between soldiers, vehicles, and command structures.

The Serval is a 4x4 light multirole armored vehicle intended for rapid deployment, patrol, and reconnaissance missions. It provides mobility for light units and has multiple configurations, including armored patrol, command post, reconnaissance, and air defense variants. The Jaguar is a 6x6 reconnaissance and combat vehicle equipped with a 40mm CTA cannon, MBDA Akeron MP anti-tank guided missiles, and advanced sensor systems. It is replacing the AMX-10RC and ERC-90 Sagaie and is designed for reconnaissance, target acquisition, and engaging enemy armored threats. The Griffon is a 6x6 multirole armored personnel carrier used for troop transport, medical evacuation, artillery observation, and command operations. It features modular armor, remote weapon systems, and a battlefield management system, making it the primary vehicle for mechanized infantry units.

Within the Scorpion program, these vehicles are integrated into the Scorpion Combat Information System (SICS) to facilitate real-time communication and coordination between units. The Jaguar is assigned to reconnaissance and combat missions, using its weapon systems and sensors to detect and engage threats. The Griffon is used for troop transport and support, ensuring protected mobility and logistical capabilities for infantry units. The Serval, due to its lighter weight, is employed for high-mobility operations and supports airborne and rapid reaction forces.

Alongside the procurement of new armored vehicles, the Scorpion program includes the renovation of 200 Leclerc main battle tanks to the XLR standard, equipping them with upgraded armor, a new battle management system, and additional defensive measures, including a remotely operated weapon station and improved counter-IED protection. The modernization also extends to the integration of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for reconnaissance and targeting support. The program is structured to ensure that all combat elements within the French Army operate under a unified architecture, facilitating coordination between different platforms and branches.

Ireland’s potential acquisition of vehicles from the Scorpion program would likely be based on international defense cooperation between France, Belgium, and Luxembourg. The CaMo program (Capacité Motorisée) is a bilateral agreement between France and Belgium, initiated in 2019, aimed at standardizing equipment, training, and operational procedures. Under CaMo, Belgium has procured 382 Griffon vehicles, 60 Jaguar vehicles, and nine new-generation Caesar self-propelled howitzers. The program also includes joint exercises, such as Celtic Uprise, and full integration of Belgian units into the Scorpion system, ensuring interoperability with French forces.

Luxembourg has also joined the cooperation framework, with local vehicle assembly planned. Discussions are now extending to Ireland, potentially increasing the number of European countries participating in the program. If Ireland proceeds with the acquisition, it would likely adopt the same vehicle fleet as Belgium and Luxembourg. Beyond procurement, CaMo facilitates cooperation in training, doctrine, and maintenance. Belgian and French personnel already work within each other’s military structures to create two fully interoperable land forces by 2027, enabling rapid deployment and coordination of French and Belgian units in high-intensity operations.

Ireland has previously operated French armored vehicles, including the Panhard AML-20, AML-90, and M3 APC. The Panhard AML-20 was armed with a 20mm cannon, while the AML-90 was equipped with a 90mm gun. These armored cars were acquired beginning in the 1960s and were used for internal security as well as overseas peacekeeping operations. The Irish Army also procured the Panhard M3 armored personnel carrier (APC) in the 1970s for troop transport. The Panhard AML fleet was retired from service in 2013, and in 2015, the remaining vehicles were sold as the country transitioned to the Swiss Piranha III.