The Italian Ministry of Defence has inked a contract with the Iveco-Oto Melara (CIO) joint venture to purchase 76 VBM PLUS vehicles for the Armed Forces.
On December 30, 2024, the Iveco-Oto Melara (CIO) partnership signed a deal with the Ministry of Defence to supply 76 VBM PLUS armoured vehicles. The arrangement covers 60 combat vehicles and 16 anti-tank, logistical, and support vehicles.
The VBM PLUS version includes significant upgrades to the vehicle. The engine is upgraded from 550 hp to 720 hp, the suspensions are upgraded for better mobility, and it includes a new generation hull resulting from years of experience with the VBM and Centauro II vehicles.
The turret is equipped with a 30 mm X-GUN machine gun from Leonardo, with new-generation electronic systems according to NATO standards. It also has upgraded protection against ballistic threats and mines. In addition, it is equipped with a four-channel SDR VQ1 radio and a C2D/N Evo command and control system, also from Leonardo.
