DSEI 2019: Nexter Systems continues to promote next generation of 8x8 armored VBCI T40.

French Company Nexter Systems continues to promote the latest generation of 8x8 VBCI (Armored Infantry Combat Vehicle), the VBCI T40 fitted with the CTA40 turret. This is an improved version of the standard VBCI designed and manufactured by the French Defense Company Nexter Systems mainly for the export market.

Nexter Systems VBCI T40 8x8 armored infantry fighting vehicle at DSEI 2019, defense and security exhibition in London, UK. (Picture source Army Recognition)

The VBCI T40 is presented at DSEI 2019 in its Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV) version fitted with the latest development of the 40mm CTA turret. The new version of the VBCI was developed and designed based on combat experience of French army in Mali. The main features of the VBCI T40 are new level of protection, firepower and mobility.

The CTA 40 is a two-man turret CTA40 armed with one 40mm automatic cannon with a thermal sleeve and Ammunition Handling System (AHS) able to automatically manage the loading of ammunition in the gun. The turret is equipped with CTAS controller to control the cannon and the AHS.

Second armament of the CTA40 turret includes one remotely operated weapon station mounted on the right side of roof turret which can be armed with a 7.62mm or a 12.7mm machine gun. Two launchers for anti-tank guided missile is mounted on each side of the turret.

The layout of the VBCI T40 is very similar to the original VBCI with the driver at the front left side of the hull with the powerpack on its right, the turret is mounted in the middle of the roof hull and the troop’s compartment is at the rear. The hull and the turret of the VBCI 2 T40 are made of all-welded aluminium offering protection against firing of small arms and artillery shell splinters. The hull has an additional layer of modular passive armour and internal spall liners. It can be fitted with additional steel armour or titanium armour plates to increase ballistic protection. The VBCI T40 is fully qualified for protection Level 4A/4B of the AEP55 against Mines and Improvised Explosives Devices (IED’s)

The VBCI T40 is motorized with a Volvo D13 turbocharged diesel engine developing 600 hp. It can run at a maximum speed of 100 km/h with a maximum cruising range of 750 km