European Company KNDS Announces First Delivery of Griffon MEPAC 120mm Self-Propelled Mortars in 2024.

On July 17, 2024, European company KNDS confirmed via its Twitter account the delivery of the first Griffon MEPAC (Mortier Embarqué pour l'Appui au Contact) vehicle, equipped with 120 mm mortars, to the French Army.
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KNDS  Griffon MEPAC (Mortier Embarqué pour l'Appui au Contact) vehicle (Picture source: Army Recognition)

The Griffon MEPAC, a specialized variant of the Griffon VBMR (Véhicule Blindé Multi-Rôles), is designed to provide indirect fire support, especially in close-contact scenarios, combining mobility and firepower with its 2R2M semi-automatic mortar system manufactured by Thales. This system can fire up to 10 rounds per minute with a maximum range of 13 km, thus offering superior accuracy and firing speed compared to traditional towed mortars.

The development of this 6x6 armored platform is part of the EBMR (Engin Blindé Multi-Rôles) program aimed at replacing the aging VAB (Véhicule de l'Avant Blindé). With its modular armor capable of withstanding small arms fire and mine explosions, the Griffon MEPAC also stands out for its integration into the SCORPION program, which promotes interoperability among vehicles through the SCORPION Information and Command System (SICS).

In addition to its mortar capabilities, the Griffon MEPAC is equipped with the T2 remotely operated turret developed by Arquus, offering flexibility in armament choices, from a 7.62 mm machine gun to a 40 mm automatic grenade launcher. This vehicle thus enhances logistical and operational support on the ground, also thanks to the ATLAS automated artillery system.

According to General Pierre Schill, Chief of Staff of the French Army, who spoke during a session at the French Senate, the first eight Griffon MEPAC units will be delivered in 2024 to the 11th Marine Artillery Regiment. This unit will be the first to benefit from this enhanced capability, marking a new phase in the modernization of the French military's artillery capacity.

This development represents not only technological progress but also a tactical improvement, enabling rapid and effective responses in intense combat situations, and underscores France's ongoing commitment to updating its armed forces in light of contemporary challenges.

Thales 2R2M  120mm semi-automatic mortar system (Picture source: Army Recognition)