Leonardo, through the CIO Consortium (IDV – OTO Melara), has signed the first Centauro II serial production contract with the Brazilian Army. Following the successful completion of operational tests, the agreement covers the delivery of seven 8×8 wheeled vehicles equipped with a 120 mm main gun. These vehicles will form the first serial production batch of the 98-vehicle programme.
The agreement covers the Viatura Blindadas de Combate de Cavalaria Média Sobre Rodas (VBC Cav – MSR 8×8) project, carried out under the Programa Estratégico Forças Blindadas.
The contract was signed following the acceptance of the initial evaluation batch comprising two vehicles. Deliveries will be carried out in annual batches.
Centauro II was designed as the most advanced evolution of this type of wheeled armoured vehicle to meet the demands of modern operational scenarios. Featuring a fully digitalised and interoperable architecture, the vehicle can operate effectively across a wide range of missions, from national security to peace support and support operations, as well as the most complex missions in different operational environments.
The vehicle combines the firepower of a modern main battle tank with the high strategic mobility of a wheeled platform. According to Leonardo, Centauro II is currently the only vehicle in service capable of integrating a 120 mm weapon system on a wheeled platform. The vehicle is equipped with a HITFACT MkII turret, a modern 720 hp propulsion system and an H-drive transmission.
Centauro II stands out for its observation capability, firing accuracy, communications quality, ergonomics and high level of crew protection. The vehicle is also in service with the Italian Army, with Italy having ordered 150 units to date. Leonardo states that Centauro II has positioned itself as a global reference in the field of large-calibre wheeled anti-tank armoured vehicles.
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Source: C4Defence – Leonardo
