Nexter has increased the maximum Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of the VBCI to 32 tons, addressing the French Army requirement for increased protection and future growth. Applique armor plates are visible on the vehicle sides and belly. Photo: DGA
Nexter has increased the maximum Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of the VBCI to 32 tons, addressing the French Army requirement for increased protection and future growth. Applique armor plates are visible on the vehicle sides and belly. Photo: DGA

A heavier, up armoured variant French VBCI armoured infantry combat vehicle has been qualified by the French Armament procurement agency (DGA), increasing the gross vehicle weight (GVW) by three tons to to 32 tons. The increase in the GVW enables the installation of appliqué side and belly armour, better protecting the vehicle against advanced threats such as mines, IEDs, and RPGs. It also provides sufficient growth capacity for future upgrades. The vehicle manufacturer, Nexter is expected to deliver to first 32 ton VBCI versions to the French armed forces beginning next year.

The up-armored variant of the French Army’s VBCI wheeled combat vehicle has improved armored protection and provides better protection against IEDs. Photo: DGA
The up-armored variant of the French Army’s VBCI wheeled combat vehicle has improved armored protection and provides better protection against IEDs. Photo: DGA
VBCI
The current VBCI GVW is 29 tons. Additional three tons will provide for add-on armor protection improvements.
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