Nexter Offers Latest VBCI Infantry Fighting Vehicles to Qatar at DIMDEX-2024

Nexter has presented the latest iteration of the French 8x8 Infantry Fighting Vehicle, VBCI MkII, at the DIMDEX-2024 exhibition (March 4-6) with the aim of bolstering the Qatar Armed Forces.

The French proposal aligns with Qatar's 2030 vision, contributing to the development of the Qatar Emiri Defense Industrial and Technology Base. This initiative includes establishing a final assembly line, maintenance and support facilities, and localized production of a diverse range of ammunition.

In addition to the VBCI MkII, Nexter is highlighting its ammunition range, catering to medium-caliber, artillery, and main battle tanks like the Leopard 2 and the PZH 2000.

The VBCI MkII represents an enhanced version of the French Army's existing model, featuring the new T40 turret equipped with an Akeron MP missile and a 40mm cased-telescoped ammunition (CTA) gun. This weaponry can penetrate 140mm of armor at a distance of 1500m, addressing a broad spectrum of land threats from infantry to main battle tanks.

Furthermore, Nexter is showcasing the JAGUAR reconnaissance and combat vehicle, boasting a manned T40 turret. Recently integrated into the French forces in 2021 and set to enter service in the Belgian army, the JAGUAR's turret incorporates the 40CTA gun and the Akeron MP missile. Weighing 25 tons, the vehicle combines weaponry, vetronics for communication and combat, and exceptional mobility. The RCT40, with its 60° elevation site of the cannon and new Anti-Aerial Air Burst Ammunition, contributes significantly to the Counter-Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) capability.

In terms of ammunition, Nexter's portfolio encompasses a wide range of NATO calibers for main battle tanks, naval, and land systems. This includes the 40mm CTA utilized by the VBCI MkII and the JAGUAR, featuring an Armor-Piercing Discarding Sabot Fin-Stabilized (APDSFS) round capable of defeating 140mm armor at 1500m. Additionally, offerings like the 155mm KATANA, a next-generation high-precision guided artillery ammunition, and the 120mm SHARD for main battle tanks.