Image source: topwar.ru
The other day, the French concern KNDS and the Greek company Metlen Energy Metals signed an exclusive partnership agreement that will allow the launch of production of Philoctetes 8x8 infantry fighting vehicles in Greece. The deal involves the transfer of experience in the manufacture of aluminum armor and in hull welding.
In October 2024, KNDS France presented the Philoctetes infantry fighting vehicle and other armored vehicle variants to the Greek army, offering to supply 200 new VBCI-2, 50 auxiliary variants (medical, artillery control and command) and 120 used VBCI from the French army reserves, totaling 370 units.
Philoctetes is an upgraded version of the VBCI 8x8, which is the main infantry fighting vehicle in service with the French army. VBCI has been equipping troops since 2008, replacing the AMX-10P. A total of 630 vehicles were transferred to the French Ministry of Defense, including 510 infantry fighting vehicles (VBCI-VCI) and 120 armored personnel carriers (VBCI-VPC).
Image source: topwar.ru
VBCI Philoctetes, also referred to as VBCI MkII or VBCI-2, is based on the original VBCI platform, but based on operational experience. The machine, which is unable to cross water obstacles on its own, has a modular design that allows for the installation of various weapons of caliber from 25 to 105 mm. The variant proposed by Greece is equipped with a remotely controlled T40 turret, which is equipped with a 40 mm CTA cannon (with a telescopic barrel) with a maximum effective range of 2500 m and a rate of fire of up to 200 rounds per minute. It is also equipped with two Akeron MP ATGMS and an advanced MSA.
The driver's seat is equipped with a 180° day/night vision system, while the commander has a 360° panoramic view. The turret of the machine rotates 360° and can be equipped with protection corresponding to the 5th level of STANAG 4569 (withstands a hit of 25 mm BPS and BOPTS). The hull is made of a light alloy and equipped with modular armor. The combat weight of the armored vehicle is 31 tons with a lifting capacity of 13 tons.
Image source: topwar.ru
The BMP is equipped with a 600 hp engine and is designed for use on various types of terrain. The vehicle can accommodate a crew of 3 people and up to 8-9 infantrymen, depending on the configuration.
The technique was named after the hero of the Trojan War and keeper of the arrows of Hercules.
- it says in the Greek edition of Iefimerida.
