Greece, France Seal Deal to Build New 8×8 Armoured Vehicle PHILOCTETES

Greek defence manufacturer METLEN Energy & Metals has signed an exclusive partnership with KNDS France to produce the VBCI PHILOCTETES, France’s latest generation 8×8 Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV).

This is the first time KNDS France has entered into such an agreement abroad for its 8×8 armoured platform. Under the deal, METLEN will manufacture core vehicle components including its aluminium armour and welded structure at its facilities in Volos.

The agreement aims to meet the Hellenic Army’s operational requirement for a new fleet of 8×8 IFVs, while also targeting broader European demand.

The VBCI PHILOCTETES is a modernised version of the VBCI in French service. It features a remotely operated 40mm turret similar to the JAGUAR, and an MMP anti-tank missile launcher. The vehicle can address threats ranging from unmanned aerial systems to main battle tanks, and supports multiple configurations, including command post, medical evacuation, and recovery roles.