The VBM 30 NG: the new generation of the ARROW for the Italian Army

With the signing of the contract between the Terrestrial Armaments Directorate (TERRARM) and the IOC (Iveco-Oto Melara Consortium, comprised equally of IDV and Leonardo) started the programme for the new Armoured Vehicle Medium 30 New Generation (VBM 30 NG). This programme concerns a profound evolution of the FRECCIA, the 8×8 wheeled vehicle in service with the 'Pinerolo' and 'Aosta' brigades, already operational in theatres such as Afghanistan.

The contract includes the supply of 76 vehicles: 60 in the Combat variant, armed with 30 mm X-GUN machine gun, and 16 in the Counter-Tank version, equipped with the same machine gun and SPIKE LR2 anti-tank missiles. With a total value of EUR 1.039 billion, the contract also includes the development of a prototype, validation and homologation of the new vehicle, with the first deliveries scheduled to start in 2028.

Compared to the original FRECCIA, the VBM 30 NG introduces radical improvements: enhanced ballistic and mine protection, new electronic architecture conforming to the NATO NGVA standard, more lethal weapon systems and an increase in operational capabilities in line with the latest technological and doctrinal developments in Western armed forces.

Evolution from VBM Plus to VBM 30 NG

To fully understand the VBM 30 NG, it is necessary to recall the previous update known as VBM Pluswhich started with the '2128 contract' signed in 2021. This programme was mainly aimed at resolving obsolescences and extending the operational life of the FRECCIA without profoundly changing its performance.

However, the changed geopolitical and operational scenario from 2022 onwards prompted the Italian Army to review its standards: mobility, protection and firepower became priorities. Thus, the project evolved from the simple MLU (Mid Life Update) to the VBM 30 New Generationcapable of meeting the new challenges of the modern battlefield.

New features include a new hull designed to improve resistance to mine and IED blasts thanks to its 'V' shape, the adoption of new materials developed for the Centaur II and VBA programmes, increased engine power to 720 hp, and the introduction of improved suspension to maintain agility despite the increase in mass to 35 tonnes.

The turret, developed by Leonardo, also represents a generational leap. The new 30 mm X-GUN cannon, capable of using airburst ammunition with counter-UAS capability, replaces the previous 25 mm armament, while the JANUS-D and LOTHAR SD digital optronic systems ensure improved target acquisition and engagement. In addition, the C2D/N EVO command system and the SWave VQ1 radio-based communications suite complete a first-class technology package.

Operational characteristics and future prospects

From an operational point of view, the VBM 30 NG retains the excellent on- and off-road performance of the original FRECCIA: a top speed of over 105 km/h, a range of 800 km and the ability to overcome gradients greater than the 60%. The dimensions are slightly increased, with a length of 8.64 metres and a width of 3 metres, while the new configuration provides greater interior protection for the crew.

One of the most relevant innovations is the readiness for future integration of artificial intelligence-based systems, both for automatic target acquisition and decision support to vehicle commanders. IOC and IDV are also investigating hybrid propulsion solutions, which could be adopted in the future, in line with sustainability trends and reduction of thermal and acoustic signatures on modern battlefields.

Co-existence between the current FRECCIA and the new VBM 30 NG will be managed through common logistics, favoured by the high level of compatibility between the two generations. In the long run, all combat vehicles should converge on the 30 mm armament, while older hulls could be converted for specialised roles.

With the VBM 30 New GenerationThe Italian Army thus provides itself with a modern, flexible instrument ready to meet the operational challenges of the future, while maintaining strong continuity with the tradition and experience gained in the field.

Source: https://www.edrmagazine.eu/exclusive-the-cio-consortium-details-the-vbm-30-new-generation-the-new-aifv-for-the-italian-army