Brazil Confirms Acquisition of Centauro II 8x8 Armored Vehicles from Italy.

Brazil is considering the acquisition of advanced Centauro II 8x8 armored vehicles, with a contract signing scheduled for the upcoming visit of Italian President Sergio Mattarella in July 2024. Senior Brazilian military officials recently traveled to Italy to review preparations for the delivery and evaluation of these vehicles.
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Iveco Centauro II 8X8 Armored Vehicle (Picture source: Iveco)

In late May and early June 2024, high-ranking officials from the Brazilian Army, including the Director of Manufacturing, Major General Tales Eduardo Areco Villela, and the head of the Army Evaluation Center, Brigadier General João Paulo Zago, visited Italy. There, they inspected the preparations related to the delivery and evaluation of two Centauro II units, which will first be tested at the Army Evaluation Center (CAEx) in Rio de Janeiro.

The Italian consortium CIO, comprising Leonardo, IDV, and Oto Melara, oversees the complete development of the Centauro II. This vehicle is noted for its powerful armament, advanced sensor systems, and adaptability to various environments, enhancing its appeal in the international defense market.

During the Italian Republic Day parade on June 2 in Rome, the Centauro II was prominently featured, underscoring its growing role in European defense strategies and its initial operational deployment in Bulgaria to enhance NATO's southern flank.

Brazil's decision to proceed with the purchase of 96 Centauro IIs, following an initial evaluation phase, demonstrates confidence in this technology. Moreover, the vehicle will undergo electromagnetic compatibility testing in Italy before being shipped to Brazil, ensuring seamless integration into the Brazilian armed forces.

This potential partnership between Brazil and Italy could not only enhance Brazilian military capabilities but also strengthen diplomatic and commercial ties between the two nations. Concurrently, the CIO Consortium continues discussions to expand its markets in Europe, Africa, and Asia, thus affirming the global reach and prestige of the Italian defense industry.

The Centauro II armored vehicle represents an important step over its predecessors, the renowned Centauro 105 and 120mm vehicles, which were the world's first 8x8 wheeled anti-tank vehicles equipped with a high-pressure gun.

Equipped with a high-tech third-generation 120mm / 45 caliber gun, the Centauro II includes an integrated muzzle brake and a semi-automatic loading system. It is capable of firing the latest 120mm NATO standard armor-piercing, fin-stabilized, discarding-sabot (APFSDS) rounds, as well as multi-purpose (MP) ammunition.

The vehicle's ammunition storage is comprehensive, accommodating 12 ready-to-fire rounds for the main gun, 1,000 rounds for the 7.62mm gun, 400 rounds for the 12.7mm gun, and 96 rounds for grenade launchers.

For enhanced defensive capabilities, the turret supports the installation of a Hitrole Light remote-controlled weapon station (RCWS), which can be outfitted with 7.62mm or 12.7mm caliber machine guns and 40mm automatic grenade launchers (AGLs), suitable for various operational scenarios beyond conventional warfare.

The Centauro II features a redesigned hull and turret that incorporate additional armor and technical upgrades, achieving AEP 55-level protection. This design protects the crew against direct fire, anti-tank mines, improvised explosive devices (IEDs), and the latest kinetic munitions.

For increased safety, the vehicle includes a dedicated anti-blast compartment for reserve ammunition and additional storage spaces. Its advanced onboard systems encompass nuclear, biological, and chemical (NBC) protection, advanced fire-fighting equipment, and anti-explosion mechanisms. Additionally, the vehicle is equipped with a laser warning system to alert the crew to potential threats.