Nexter's KNDS VBCI Mk II Set to Revolutionize Qatar's Infantry with Latest French Defense Technologies.

In a significant move to modernize the Qatar Armed Forces, French Company Nexter, part of KNDS, has presented its state-of-the-art VBCI Mk II (Vehicle Blindé de Combat d'Infanterie - Infantry Combat Armored Vehicle) to modernize the Qatari infantry units. This proposal, rooted in French military ingenuity, promises not only to enhance the combat capabilities of Qatar's forces but also to bolster the nation's defense technological and industrial base in harmony with its ambitious 2030 vision.
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Nexter KNDS displays its new VBCI Mk II at DIMDEX 2024, a naval defense exhibition in Doha, Qatar. (Picture source Army Recognition)

The VBCI Mk II, an evolution of the combat-tested French VBCI Infantry Fighting Vehicle, is tailored to meet the advanced operational demands of the Qatar Armed Forces. Nexter's commitment to a "100% French solution" extends beyond the mere supply of military hardware. The comprehensive package includes establishing a final assembly line, maintenance, support facilities, and a production line for a broad spectrum of ammunition within Qatar. This initiative is poised to significantly contribute to Qatar's sovereignty and self-reliance in defense capabilities.

Nexter's presence at DIMDEX 2024 not only highlights the VBCI Mk II but also showcases an innovative range of ammunition for medium-caliber arms, artillery, and main battle tanks, compatible with platforms such as the Leopard 2A7 tank and the PzH 2000 155mm self-propelled tracked howitzer. This ammunition range underscores Nexter's role as a leader in munitions innovation, catering to a wide array of battlefield requirements.

The VBCI Mk II itself is a testament to Nexter's legacy of excellence in armored vehicle design and partnership with the Qatar Armed Forces, reminiscent of collaborations on platforms like the AMX-30 tank. The VBCI Mk II comes equipped with the cutting-edge T40 turret, incorporating the Akeron MP missile system and a 40mm cased-telescoped ammunition (CTA) gun. This formidable combination is capable of penetrating 140mm of armor from a distance of 1,500 meters, offering unmatched versatility against various land threats, from infantry to main battle tanks.

The T40 turret and Akeron MP anti-tank missile system represent the forefront of military technology, significantly enhancing the capabilities of infantry fighting vehicles such as the VBCI Mk II. The integration of these systems marks a leap forward in terms of firepower, precision, and versatility on the modern battlefield.

The T40 turret is a state-of-the-art weapon station that has been designed with modularity and adaptability at its core. This advanced turret system is capable of being equipped with a variety of armaments, including the latest in cannon and missile technology, allowing it to fulfill a wide range of combat roles. One of its key attributes is the incorporation of advanced targeting systems, which enable the turret to engage and destroy enemy targets with high precision. The design philosophy behind the T40 emphasizes not only lethality but also the protection and situational awareness of the crew, ensuring that they can operate effectively under a broad spectrum of threat environments.

Complementing the T40 turret, the Akeron MP anti-tank missile system offers a formidable anti-armor capability. This missile is designed to defeat current and future armored threats, including tanks equipped with the latest explosive reactive armor. The Akeron MP is characterized by its versatility, as it can be launched from a variety of platforms, including the T40 turret, and is effective in direct attack modes as well as top-attack profiles to exploit the weaker armor on the top of tanks. Its guidance system allows high-precision engagement of targets at extended ranges, enhancing the vehicle's standoff capability.

The integration of the T40 turret and Akeron MP missile system into the VBCI Mk II significantly enhances the platform's operational flexibility. This combination enables the vehicle to conduct a wide range of missions, from anti-tank warfare to supporting infantry operations, making it a critical asset on the modern battlefield. Together, these systems represent a harmonious blend of firepower, accuracy, and adaptability, setting new standards for armored vehicle performance.

Having served the French Army for over a decade, the VBCI IFVs combat prowess is undisputed. Its track record of safeguarding crew and soldiers' lives during combat operations is a clear indicator of its reliability and effectiveness in the field. With this proposal, Nexter not only aims to renew its longstanding partnership with Qatar but also to significantly uplift the operational capabilities of the Qatar Armed Forces, marking a new era of defense modernization for the country.

Defense News March 2024