Image source: topwar.ru
The EU, trying to consolidate the defense industry of European countries, is financing a number of joint projects, including the FAMOUS program ("future highly mobile advanced armored systems"), which involves the creation of a line of new armored vehicles to replace the outdated American M113 armored personnel carrier.
Companies from 9 countries (Finland, Belgium, Denmark, Latvia, Germany, France, Estonia, Greece and Spain), led by Finnish Patria, are working on the project with a preliminary cost of €114 million. The start of possible production of the armored vehicle is expected in 2027. At the moment, two prototypes have been manufactured, one of which was presented at the Eurosatory 2024 exhibition.
Image source: topwar.ru
FAMOUS should replace the M113 armored personnel carrier, which is in service with the armies of many countries, and other outdated all-terrain vehicles.
- says the Defensa publication.
Image source: topwar.ru
FAMOUS has a large width, has an undercarriage with an innovative suspension and relies on wide rubber tracks, which exert less pressure on the ground and allow you to move efficiently through snowy terrain. The amphibious design allows the car to move through the water at a speed of 4 km/h.
The driver and commander are located in front; their posts are equipped with digital displays. Behind them there is an engine compartment, and then an amphibious compartment with 10 seats, characterized by spaciousness.
Image source: topwar.ru
The FAMOUS, weighing about 15 tons and with a load capacity of 3.5 tons, has a steel body on which mounted armor can be installed. In the upper part there is a remotely controlled Kongsberg RS6 combat module, which is equipped with a 30 mm cannon and a 7.62 x 51 mm machine gun. The maximum speed is 88 km/h, the range is about 600 km. The equipment is capable of overcoming two-meter ditches and ascents with a slope of 60 °.
- the publication believes.
