IDET 2025: Excalibur Army Unveils Pandur II 8x8 EVO IFV as Czech Modular Combat Vehicle Solution.

On May 28, 2025, Czech defense manufacturer Excalibur Army officially presented the latest iteration of its Pandur II 8x8 EVO infantry fighting vehicle (IFV) during the IDET 2025 exhibition in Brno. The unveiling marks a major step forward in Czechia’s push to modernize its mechanized forces. Featuring a new configuration and combat-ready turret, the EVO variant introduces significant upgrades. Its modular design and advanced protection underline its importance for future NATO-aligned deployments.
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Strategically, the Pandur II 8x8 EVO strengthens Czechia’s position within NATO as a contributor to high-readiness mechanized forces. With growing tensions in Eastern Europe, the EVO is positioned as a credible solution for both domestic defense and allied interoperability (Picture Source: Army Recognition Group)

The Pandur II 8x8 EVO, developed by Excalibur Army in cooperation with General Dynamics European Land Systems, is a next-generation armored combat vehicle categorized as an Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV). Based on the proven Pandur II platform, the EVO variant is fitted with a new unmanned TURRA 30 turret developed by Slovak company EVPU, equipped with a 30mm cannon, coaxial machine gun, and anti-tank guided missiles. Powered by a Cummins engine producing 455 hp and integrated with an Allison automatic transmission, the vehicle offers enhanced mobility, modular ballistic protection up to STANAG 4569 Level 4, and advanced digital architecture for battlefield management. It also incorporates improved suspension, amphibious capabilities, and a higher payload capacity, making it adaptable to multiple mission roles.

The original Pandur II platform was first introduced in the early 2000s, with production tailored for several countries, including the Czech Republic, Portugal, and Indonesia. The EVO upgrade emerged from lessons learned during NATO exercises and operational deployments, focusing on survivability, lethality, and network integration. Its development was supported by Czech and Slovak defense industry cooperation and showcases the region’s growing capacity for independent armored vehicle innovation. The vehicle was designed to meet NATO standards and specifically tailored to Czech Army requirements.

The Pandur II 8x8 EVO offers several key advantages over legacy platforms like the original Pandur II and other Western IFVs such as the Patria AMV or Boxer. Its turret system allows for high-precision fire while keeping the crew protected within the armored hull. Unlike the Patria, which is typically turret-agnostic, the EVO comes ready with a combat-proven armament suite. Compared to the Boxer, it offers a more cost-effective solution for nations requiring a balance between firepower, mobility, and modularity. Its integration with Czech-made components also enhances national defense industry autonomy.

Strategically, the Pandur II 8x8 EVO strengthens Czechia’s position within NATO as a contributor to high-readiness mechanized forces. With growing tensions in Eastern Europe, the EVO is positioned as a credible solution for both domestic defense and allied interoperability. Its deployment also supports the European Union's drive toward defense self-sufficiency by reducing reliance on non-EU platforms. Geopolitically, it reflects a shift toward building a modern armored corps capable of participating in coalition operations and rapid-response missions.

In terms of budgetary implications, the Czech Ministry of Defence previously allocated over €2 billion for the procurement of new armored vehicles, with the Pandur II EVO forming a core element of that investment. While no additional export contracts were announced at IDET 2025, interest was reported from several Central European and Balkan states. The most recent confirmed contract was awarded to Excalibur Army in 2023 for the delivery of additional Pandur II vehicles to the Czech Army, now upgraded to the EVO standard.

The debut of the Pandur II 8x8 EVO at IDET 2025 highlights Excalibur Army's ability to deliver a combat-ready, NATO-standard IFV tailored for the demands of modern warfare. With its advanced turret, enhanced mobility, and modular architecture, the EVO variant reinforces Czechia’s commitment to mechanized force modernization and strategic autonomy. It stands as a powerful symbol of Central Europe’s growing defense industrial capabilities and operational readiness.