Metlen: Exclusive cooperation with a French company for armored vehicles
Exclusive cooperation with KNDS France (KNDs) has been concluded by Metlen For the production of VBCI Philoctetes®, the most modern French 8 × 8 Infantry Battle Armored Vehicle, marking a major milestone in European industrial and defense cooperation. As the company reports, this is the first time that the French leader in the land defense has signed such an ambitious 8 × 8 armor.
This exclusive alliance involves the transfer of know -how for the construction of aluminum shields and the production and assembly in Greece of the VBCI MK2.
The aim of this strategic agreement is to meet the Greek Army’s operational need for a large number of 8 × 8 armor vehicles, as well as the armed forces of other European states.
With the installation of basic production and maintenance lines in Greece, cooperation favors the availability of equipment and creates added value in the country’s industry, while strengthening the French -Greek defense cooperation.
Philoctetes®: A powerful, integrated battle system
The name Philoctetes® refers to the hero of the Trojan War and guardian of Hercules arrows, which were essential for the fall of Troy. VBCI Philoctetes®
It is an upgraded version of the 8 × 8 armored infantry battle vehicle already serving the needs of the French Army. It is equipped with a 40mm remote controlled turret, equivalent to that of Jaguar, as well as MMP anti -tank launcher, achieving effective coverage against a wide range of threats – from UAVs and aerial means to light vehicles and main tanks.
The VBCI can carry a full infantry battle section and is available in various versions, such as administration vehicle, ambulance or recovery vehicle. VBCI is used by the
French army for more than 10 years on external missions and has been improving and upgraded since then.
Metlen has significant experience in the defense sector, having been a reliable industrial partner for 23 years of Knds Deutschland. Her productive unit in Volos already
It undertakes the assembly of the 2 MBT 2 MBT battle tank shield. With this new collaboration, Metlen further enhances its presence in
European defense initiatives.
The geopolitical environment and the increasing need to strengthen European defense autonomy necessitates the acceleration of the defensive potential of Epirus. OR
European defensive reconstruction (REARM) highlights the importance of local production and industrial self -sufficiency in the field of defense. The Greek industry, through
Initiatives like this, it plays a critical role in Europe’s strategic independence, while contributing to the creation of high -qualification positions and to
Development of new technologies. With this agreement, Metlen confirms its commitment to domestic and European industry.
Metlen is a leading position in heavy and complex metal structures, with the Volos industrial unit recognized for its international defense production. The
A factory in Volos, founded in 1963, has evolved into a specialized production unit, with 100% of its production intended for exports over the last two decades.
Metlen, in order to further support its role in the defense industry, announced in early 2024 the development of a new production unit of advanced metal constructions, which is expected to be launched by 2026. In addition, the company has acquired two more facilities in the Volos industrial area, which is in the process of being transformed.
With Metlen’s productive dynamics and KNDS France’s know -how in land defense systems, this collaboration is a crucial step to strengthen its
Defense readiness in Greece and Europe, while ensuring industrial capabilities that will support the region’s strategic autonomy for the coming years.
Source: OT
