Iveco Oto Melara Consortium Advances Italian Armed Forces with VBM PLUS Integration.

On December 30, 2024, the Iveco-Oto Melara Consortium (CIO) formalized a contract with the Direzione Armamenti Terrestri (DAT) of the Italian Ministry of Defense for the delivery of 76 VBM PLUS armored vehicles. This agreement includes 60 combat vehicles, 16 anti-tank variants, integrated logistics support, and combat support vehicles. It forms part of Phase 2 of the Italian Army's medium armored vehicle program, aimed at enhancing the capabilities of its Second Medium Brigade.

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 The newly developed chassis, informed by experience with the Centauro II and previous VBM platforms, improves mobility, protection, and potential for further development (Picture source: CIO)

The VBM PLUS vehicles introduce significant upgrades compared to the initial model, incorporating technological and operational enhancements tailored to meet modern battlefield demands. The vehicles feature an upgraded engine employing common rail technology, increasing power from 550 to 720 horsepower, with provisions for future hybrid-electric propulsion. The newly developed chassis, informed by experience with the Centauro II and previous VBM platforms, improves mobility, protection, and potential for further development. Transmission and suspension systems have also been enhanced to improve maneuverability across diverse terrains and strengthen resilience against ballistic and mine threats.

The armament has been updated with the Leonardo-developed X-GUN 30 mm turret. This system, compatible with NATO-standard ammunition, including Air Burst Munition (ABM) rounds effective against drones, provides a marked increase in firepower. Additionally, the turret integrates next-generation electronic components that adhere to NATO Generic Vehicle Architecture (NGVA) standards, facilitating seamless interaction with advanced targeting and surveillance systems such as Janus D and Lothar SD. These upgrades ensure improved accuracy and interoperability within a digitized combat environment.

The vehicles also feature reinforced crew protection through enhanced ballistic and mine-resistant armor and a fully modernized communication system. This includes Leonardo's SDR VQ1 four-channel radio and the C2D/N Evo command and control system, designed to ensure effective communication and situational awareness on the battlefield.

A key innovation in the VBM PLUS is the integration of Galileo PRS technology, developed in Italy under the European Union’s Galileo program. This secure satellite navigation system enables the simultaneous use of encrypted signals from both the U.S. GPS and European Galileo systems, providing unprecedented navigational accuracy, even in contested environments.

This contract represents a critical step in modernizing the Italian Army’s military capabilities. The VBM PLUS combines mobility, protection, and firepower while incorporating command, control, communications, computers, and intelligence (C4I) systems. These features equip the Italian Army to meet the challenges of future operational environments with an advanced, network-centric vehicle.

In conclusion, the delivery of 76 VBM PLUS vehicles marks a significant milestone in the modernization of Italy’s ground forces. This program reflects the nation’s commitment to investing in advanced technologies while fostering collaboration between domestic industrial players such as Iveco and Leonardo.