Image source: topwar.ru
VBM Freccia
In early 2000, the Italian army decided to convert two of its brigades into medium-heavy formations, equipping them with the 8x8 Freccia infantry fighting vehicle (another designation for VBM is "medium armored vehicle").
In 2021, a contract was signed to upgrade this equipment to the VBM Plus level, and in December 2024, an agreement was signed to purchase 76 new units.
- explained the developer, IDV company.
Taking into account the "global trend" (that is, the experience of the Ukrainian conflict), it was decided to create a new version with a body made from scratch, only the design of the engine compartment will not change. The new modification was designated VBM 30 NG.
During its development, all the changes made within the framework of the VBM Plus project remain in force, but it was decided to significantly strengthen protection by redesigning the hull, removing the wheel arches and giving the bottom under the rear compartment a V-shape to effectively reflect the blast wave in the event of a mine explosion. The energy-absorbing seats will not be mounted to the floor, as well as the attached "walkway" for movement, which will reduce the likelihood of leg injuries. Ballistic protection will increase by at least one level.
Image Source: topwar.ru
The VBM 30 NG concept
The target weight of the VBM 30 NG is 35 tons, the power plant is 720 hp and 2500 Nm (a promising modification of the former IVECO 8262 6V Commonrail turbocharged engine, which received the designation IDV 6V TCA Commonrail and is characterized by an increased volume and the fact that the mechanical pump has been replaced by electronic injection).
The MacPherson hydropneumatic suspension will remain, having received a reinforced shock absorber. The characteristics of the chassis will remain at the Freccia level, despite the increasing weight of the car. The VBM 30 NG will be easier to repair and maintain compared to its predecessor.
One of the key improvements of the VBM 30 NG is the installation of a new 30×173 mm X-Gun (Leonardo is completing its development), housed in a modified two-seat aluminum alloy HITFIST turret. It will be capable of firing guided detonation ammunition, which is claimed to provide "some counteraction to UAVs" thanks to special algorithms (responsible for predicting drone trajectories) and a Janus-D sight with a laser rangefinder. The elevation angles of the cannon will be +60°...-10°. The main gun will have more than 200 (up to 220) shells ready to fire in two magazines. Reloading is done under the armor.
Image source: topwar.ru
The promising X-Gun
The cannon will be complemented by an Israeli Spike LR2 ATGM with a range of 5.5 km. They are capable of firing at targets beyond the line of sight.
Compared to the original VBM Freccia model, the VBM 30 NG will have a length of 8.64 m (+0.14 m), a width of 3.0 m (+0.01 m) and a body height of 2.23 m (+190 mm). The internal volume remains the same – 11 cubic meters. The characteristics will be identical or very similar.: a speed of more than 105 km/h on the road, a range of more than 800 km at 70 km/h, a slope and a side slope of more than 60° and 30°, respectively. It overcomes a vertical obstacle with a height of 0.6 m and a trench with a depth of 2 m, a ford with a depth of 1.5 m without preparation, the turning radius does not exceed 9 m.
Two VBM Plus prototypes are currently being produced as technology demonstrators. After their testing, the modernization of the existing VBM fleet will begin. They are also necessary for the development of the VBM 30 NG, the first prototype of which is to be manufactured by the end of 2027, and deliveries will begin a year later, after certification.
In total, the Italian army currently needs 630 VBM vehicles, 360 Freccia units have been ordered (+76 under the December 2024 contract), 330 have been delivered. However, it is not known in what proportion VBM Freccia, VBM Plus and VBM 30 NG will be purchased.
