Greek Army evaluates French proposal for 370 VBCI Philoctetes infantry fighting vehicles.

On October 1, 2024, the Greek Ministry of National Defense announced that representatives from KNDS France, formerly Nexter Systems, presented armored combat vehicle (ACV) options to the Hellenic Army General Staff (GES) on September 25, 2024. The presentation included discussions on both new and used vehicles, with particular attention to the Philoctetes model, also known as the VBCI II.
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KNDS France showcased the VBCI Philoctetes at the Hellenic DEFEA 2021 exhibition, and in April 2022, it signed a cooperation agreement with Hellenic Defense Systems (EAS) to facilitate Greek production and maintenance if selected. (Picture source: Army Recognition)

Although the Ministry did not specify which models were discussed, KNDS France has been promoting the Philoctetes to the Greek Army for some time. Reports from Defence Review.gr suggest that the company reiterated its March 2024 proposal for the delivery of 200 VBCI-2 units, equipped with the T40 turret featuring a 40mm CTA cannon and Akeron MP anti-tank missiles.

The proposal also includes 50 VBCI-2 vehicles in support configurations such as medical, artillery observation, and command roles, along with 120 second-hand VBCIs from the French Army for rapid deployment. The offer involves the participation of Greek industry in production and maintenance, with 200 new vehicles, 50 specialized support variants, and 120 second-hand units being considered.

French VBCIs were evaluated during the Olympic Cooperation 23 exercise in November 2023, where they operated with the Hellenic Army’s Leopard 2 HEL tanks. Their performance, particularly in terms of maneuverability and terrain handling, was noted.

With a rate of fire of up to 200 rounds per minute and a 60-round handling system, the 40CTA's 40 mm cased telescoped cannon possesses a maximum effective range of 2,500 m. (Picture source: Army Recognition)

The Philoctetes represents an upgraded version of the VBCI currently used by the French Army, which has acquired 630 units, including 510 infantry fighting vehicles and 120 command variants. The VBCI-VCI version carries a crew of two and nine soldiers, armed with a 25mm cannon and 7.62mm machine gun. The VBCI-VPC command version has a two-person crew, accommodates seven soldiers, and is equipped with a 12.7mm machine gun.

KNDS France showcased the VBCI Philoctetes at the Hellenic DEFEA 2021 exhibition, and in April 2022, it signed a cooperation agreement with Hellenic Defense Systems (EAS) to facilitate Greek production and maintenance if selected. The agreement allows for Greek involvement in subsystem manufacturing, final assembly, and long-term support, in collaboration with the Saracakis company.

In April 2023, the Philoctetes was demonstrated to the Hellenic Army at the Canjuers camp in France, where the delegation observed live fire demonstrations and terrain handling capabilities. French soldiers who have used the VBCI in operations provided additional feedback, offering insights into its performance in various environments.

The Philoctetes represents an upgraded version of the VBCI 8x8 IFV currently used by the French Army, which has acquired 630 units, including 510 infantry fighting vehicles and 120 command variants. (Picture source: Army Recognition)

The Philoctetes proposed for Greece features a CTA 40mm cannon, two Akeron-MP anti-tank missile launchers, advanced sighting systems, and a fire control system. The infantry compartment is designed to optimize internal space and armor protection. The vehicle is currently under review by the GES as part of the Hellenic Army’s ACV program.

The VBCI Philoctetes, also referred to as the VBCI-2 or VBCI MkII, is based on the VBCI platform and incorporates adjustments made from prior operational experience. It maintains modularity, supporting a range of configurations, including armaments between 25mm and 105mm turrets. This flexibility allows it to perform different roles, including as an infantry fighting vehicle, armored personnel carrier, or self-propelled mortar carrier.

The vehicle’s modular armor and light alloy hull provide protection that meets STANAG 4569 standards. It has a payload capacity of 13 tons and a combat weight of 31 tons. Powered by a 600-horsepower engine, it is designed for operations in various terrains and can be airlifted for rapid deployment.

Carrying up to 11 individuals, the VBCI-2 could perform different roles, including as an infantry fighting vehicle, armored personnel carrier, or self-propelled mortar carrier. (Picture source: Army Recognition)

The VBCI MkII’s electronic systems are compatible with C4I systems for battlefield management. The driver benefits from a 180-degree day/night vision system, and the commander has access to a 360-degree view, enhancing operational awareness.

The 40mm CTA turret, developed by CTA International, is compatible with a range of military vehicles and uses cased telescoped ammunition for reduced size and increased reliability. It offers a high elevation angle, which supports operations in both urban and open environments. With a rate of fire of up to 200 rounds per minute and a 60-round handling system, it can also integrate additional weapon systems such as anti-tank missile pods and remote-controlled weapon stations.

Furthermore, this turret provides protection that meets STANAG Level 2 standards, with optional upgrades to Level 5. It has a full 360-degree traverse and can engage targets at distances exceeding six kilometers, offering versatility for various combat operations.

The VBCI, developed by GIAT Industries and Renault Trucks Defense, entered service with the French Army in 2008 to replace the AMX-10P, introduced in 1973. (Picture source: Army Recognition)