Within the framework of the International Defence and Security Exhibition DEFEA 2023, the French company ARQUUS DEFENSE had both its proposal for upgrading the VBL fleet to the Ultima level and the promotion of the VLRA series of trucks to replace the aging trucks of the Hellenic Army high on its agenda.

The VBL upgrade

In the wake of the recent successful completion of the modernization of two Hellenic Army vehicles to the VBL Ultima level by ARQUUS, the company proposes the upgrade in question in respect of the Hellenic Army’s existing VBL vehicles. The upgrade includes improvements to the engine, transmission, and brake system.

With the delivery of the two Ultima VBLs and several components, the contractual obligations of the French company have been completed and now the focus is on negotiations with the Greek competent authorities concerning the upgrade program of the majority of the Greek VBLs (to the Ultima level) as well as the replacement program for general purpose trucks and the complete renewal of the Hellenic Army’s vehicle fleet.

It has been long known that the Mercedes G-Class and Steyr 680M vehicles will be decommissioned in the medium term.

Also read: ARQUUS DEFENSE | DЯ at the factory of the French company – The VBLs and DEFEA 2023

The VLRA for the Hellenic Army 

According to company information, the VLRA (Véhicule de Liaison de Reconnaissance et d’Appui / Liaison / Reconnaissance and Support Vehicle) vehicle is the upgrade of VLRA 1, with 12,000 units and the main chassis in the African market being the ARQUUS Bastion.

In a relevant announcement, ARQUUS states that the VRLA-type vehicle is one of the most sturdy and easy-to-maintain 4×4 military vehicles, which can perform multi-purpose missions, such as transport of troops, cargo, and systems in the most demanding environments.

VLRA vehicles are superior compared to vehicles of the same category in terms of interior layout and payload capacity as well as mobility (off-road), low maintenance, and repair costs, since they can operate autonomously without requiring support units, extensive training, or heavy maintenance equipment. This package has convinced several armies around the world to acquire it, an element that simplifies access to spare parts.

The VLRA was unveiled at DEFEA 2021 receiving positive reviews for its individual features and modular construction. Any procurement by the Hellenic Army may be combined with domestic production through an industrial partner with the guidance and support of ARQUUS.

Also read: SABRE | The special operations vehicle of ARQUUS

VLRA technical characteristics:

• Length: 5.7 meters
• Height: 2.4 meters
• Width: 2.2 meters
• Crew: 3 people
• Engine: 175 hp
• Maximum speed: 110 km/h
• Endurance: 1,000 km
• Gradient: 30%

The VLRA is also available in a 6×6 configuration and as a firefighting vehicle and is therefore a modern truck that can significantly upgrade the capabilities of the Hellenic Army about its wheeled fleet.

Finally, it is noted that the National Guard has been using the VLRA as a 120 mm mortar carrier for decades. Find out more about this in the following article.

Also read: ARQUUS DEFENSE | Dynamic presentation at EUROSATORY with innovative combat vehicles, familiar to the National Guard of Cyprus – VIDEOS and Photos