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French Army Debuts Grizzly and Serval Combat Vehicles at National Day Military Parade 2023.
The French army proudly showcased its newly developed wheeled combat vehicles, the Grizzly and Serval, at the national military parade held in Paris on July 14, 2023. The Serval, a versatile armored vehicle, is set to replace the aging VAB APC (Armored Personnel Carrier). Meanwhile, the Grizzly, a reconnaissance and anti-tank light wheeled vehicle, is specially designed for the needs of airborne troops.
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French Army Serval 4x4 armored vehicle at military parade rehearsal for French National Day July 14, 2023. (Picture source Army Recognition)
The Serval light armored multi-role vehicle was developed to meet the light vehicle requirement of the French Army under the Scorpion program launched in 2014. The initiative encompasses the introduction of new vehicles, the upgrading of existing ones, and the implementation of advanced battle management systems to bolster information sharing and operational effectiveness.
The Scorpion program, initiated by the French Army, involves the development and deployment of a number of new armored vehicles. One of these is the Griffon, a multi-role armored vehicle that's slated to replace the VAB ("Véhicule de l'Avant Blindé" or Armored Vanguard Vehicle) that has been in operation since the 1970s. The Jaguar is another key vehicle in this program. This armored reconnaissance and combat vehicle is expected to replace several older vehicles, including the AMX-10RC/RCR and ERC-90 Sagaie reconnaissance vehicles, as well as the VAB HOT anti-tank missile carriers.
In addition to these, the Serval, a multirole armored vehicle, is a part of the Scorpion program. This vehicle is designed to take the place of the older VAB armored personnel carrier. Alongside the new vehicles, the program also mandates upgrades to the existing Leclerc main battle tanks to boost their capabilities and keep them relevant on the modern battlefield.
As part of the Scorpion program, the French Army's existing Leclerc main battle tanks will receive significant upgrades to enhance their capabilities and ensure they remain effective on the modern battlefield under the name of Leclerc XLR.
The Serval VBMR, with its modular design, offers the flexibility to be tailored into various configurations. Offering strategic versatility, a substantial payload capacity, and the ability to function in active combat zones, it serves as an essential transport medium for light infantry, intelligence, and reconnaissance units within the battlefield's contact zones. The French rapid reaction force anticipates incorporating the Serval VBMR into its operations.
Moreover, the Scorpion program encompasses the development of advanced systems and technology to bolster communication and information sharing between different units and vehicles. This includes initiatives like the CONTACT radio and the SCORPION Combat Information System (SICS).
French Army Grizzly light airborne troops reconnaissance and anti-trank vehicle at military parade rehearsal for French National Day July 14, 2023. (Picture source Army Recognition)
The Grizzly is a wheeled light reconnaissance and anti-tank vehicle based on the Sherpa light tactical vehicle developed and manufactured by the French company ARQUUS. It is based on a 4x4 chassis featuring an open top architecture.
The Grizzly, an innovative military vehicle, has been expertly designed for superior performance on the most challenging terrains and across trenches. With a high ground clearance and specifically calculated attack angles, this vehicle displays unparalleled competence on rugged landscapes.
Beneath its robust exterior, the Grizzly houses a robust engine capable of delivering 265 horsepower. It's mated to an automatic transmission system that allows the vehicle to achieve top speeds of 110 km/h. This makes it an incredibly mobile and versatile vehicle, with a large payload capacity for a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 11 tones.
Despite its large size, the Grizzly remains a compact vehicle. This quality makes it ideal for operations that require discretion, including deep infiltration and reconnaissance missions. Moreover, it has been constructed to be compatible with air transport, easily loaded onto a C-130 Hercules or an A400M Atlas.
What sets the Grizzly apart is its ability to carry a wide variety of equipment due to its inherent modularity. In its standard configuration, it is equipped with a ring mount capable of supporting heavy weaponry, such as the M2HB 12.7mm or LGA 40mm guns. It also has three 7.62mm machine gun mounts, providing coverage from all angles. These automatic weapons give the Grizzly a formidable firepower, making it an ideal choice for assault missions or strong recon missions.
To summarize, the Grizzly represents a combination of power, flexibility, and strategic design. This versatile vehicle performs impressively on rugged terrains, exhibits remarkable speed, and packs considerable firepower, making it a truly indispensable asset in any military operation.
Defense News July 2023
