The GMV Flyer 72 is the new tactical vehicle of the Folgore

The GMV Flyer 72 program is undergoing a decisive acceleration. In the next five years, until 2029, the Special Forces and the Paratroopers Brigade "Folgore" will be equipped with ultra-light high-mobility military vehicles thanks to the contract signed with Flyer Defense.

The primary objective is the availability of air-transportable tactical vehicles designed to enable the rapid deployment and concentration of special forces and paratrooper units in reduced times and with short notice, even in operational areas not accessible to other types of forces. This will ensure the country a projection capability in the third dimension.

The GMV Flyer 72 has an empty weight of about 2.5 tons, with a length ranging from 4.62 to 4.90 meters, and a width between 2.01 and 2.16 meters, depending on the selected configuration. It can accommodate up to seven-nine passengers, although the rear seats are often removed to host armaments such as 12.7 mm heavy machine guns, 40 mm Mk 19 grenade launchers, and 7.62 mm machine guns.

Currently, Flyer Defense offers three variants of the Flyer 72: the Flyer 72 HD (Heavy Duty), the Flyer LD (Light Duty), and the Flyer 72 U (Utility). The latter weighs 3.3 tons empty and has a load capacity of 2.5 tons, like the Flyer 72 HD version.

Between 2015 and 2017, 27 units were purchased by the 9th Regiment "Col Moschin" which tested their mobility and flexibility in various scenarios.

The vehicle is powered by a 220-horsepower turbodiesel engine, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, allowing the Flyer 72 U to reach a maximum road speed of 150 km/h. The range varies depending on the type of mission, with an interval between 300 and 500 miles.

The total expected cost of the program is 229.6 million euros, with 199 vehicles delivered to the Paratroopers Brigade Folgore.

In conclusion, the acquisition of the GMV Flyer 72 reflects the pragmatic approach of the Italian Army in updating and enhancing the capabilities of its units, while recognizing that the true strength of a unit is measured in the synergy between man and machine.