Chadian army training with French-made Panhard ERC-90 Sagaie reconnaissance vehicles.

According to a tweet from Hammer of War published on November 16, 2023, a video has surfaced showing French-made Panhard ERC-90 Sagaie reconnaissance vehicles participating in a training exercise with the Chadian armed forces. This exercise highlights the significance of military cooperation between France and Chad, as well as the crucial role these vehicles play in Chad's defense and security operations.
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The Panhard ERC-90 Sagaie is a light armored vehicle that was designed and manufactured in France by Panhard, a brand now included in Arquus (Picture source: Twitter account of Hammer of War)

The Panhard ERC-90 Sagaie is a light armored vehicle designed and manufactured in France, primarily used for reconnaissance missions. Its design dates back to 1975, and it has been in service since the early 1980s. The vehicle has been deployed in numerous conflicts and peacekeeping missions around the world, demonstrating its versatility and reliability.

Weighing 8.3 tons and with relatively compact dimensions (7.7 meters long, 2.50 meters wide, and 2.25 meters high), the ERC-90 is designed to be fast and agile on the field. Its mobility is enhanced by its 6x6 suspension, which uses coil springs and shock absorbers, allowing the vehicle to maneuver across various types of terrain. This agility is crucial for a reconnaissance vehicle, enabling it to navigate quickly in potentially dangerous areas while gathering vital intelligence.

The primary armament of the ERC-90 Sagaie is a 90 mm CN90 cannon, capable of firing a range of munitions, making it effective against armored targets and fortifications. It is also equipped with two MAS machine guns, enhancing its defensive capabilities against infantry threats. This combination of armament gives the vehicle considerable firepower for its size.

The armor of the ERC-90, although light (10 mm thick), provides adequate protection against light arms and shrapnel, a necessary compromise to maintain the mobility of the vehicle. It is powered by a Peugeot V-6 petrol engine, delivering 155 horsepower at 5,250 rpm, which gives it a power-to-weight ratio of 18.7 hp/tonne. This power allows it to reach a maximum speed of 90 km/h and an operational range of about 730 kilometers.

The ERC-90 Sagaie has been used in numerous international operations, including peacekeeping missions in Lebanon, the Gulf, Bosnia, Kosovo, Ivory Coast, and Mali, as well as in the conflict against Boko Haram. Its use in these various contexts demonstrates its adaptability and ability to meet diverse military needs.

In the context of the Chadian army, the ERC-90 Sagaie plays a pivotal role. Faced with various security challenges, such as internal conflicts and cross-border threats, Chad requires vehicles capable of conducting rapid reconnaissance and effectively responding to threats. The agility and firepower of the ERC-90 make it a strategic asset for the Chadian armed forces, enabling them to conduct surveillance and reconnaissance operations while having the capability to defend and attack if necessary.

Furthermore, the use of the ERC-90 by the Chadian army reflects the close military cooperation between France and Chad. France, with strategic interests in Africa, particularly in the Sahel region, has historically supported Chad with training, equipment, and technical assistance. This partnership is part of broader efforts to maintain regional stability and combat extremist groups.