VBCI PHILOCTETES, which was unveiled at the International Defence and Security Exhibition DEFEA 2021, is also the main proposal of Nexter at this year’s DEFEA 2023.

The said vehicle, in fact, carried out operational tests in the presence of a delegation of the Hellenic Army and National Guard officials at the Canjuers camp in France in April 2023.

The demonstration of the capabilities of the VBCI PHILOCTETES Infantry Fighting Vehicle included static and moving shots with the CTA T40 turret and tactical mobility in various terrains. At the same time, the delegation gathered feedback from French soldiers who had already operated with the platform.

Also read: Hellenic Defence Systems | Memorandum with French Nexter for the co-production of Armored Vehicle platform

It is recalled that a year ago, Nexter signed a strategic partnership with the state-owned company Hellenic Defence Systems specialized in the design, development, and production of weapon systems. Today, Nexter and the company Saracakis are exploring the possibility of locating the maintenance of the VBCI PHILOCTETES in Greece. Locating part of the maintenance in Greece will allow a better availability of the equipment.

Also read: “Philoctetes” | Nexter’s solution for the Infantry of the future

In addition to PHILOCTETES, Nexter exhibits at DEFEA the 40 CTA gun, which equips the new RAPIDFire turret exhibited at the booth in naval and land versions. This system, which has already been delivered to the French Navy, provides a close-in protection capacity of up to 4 km particularly against drones and light aircraft.

In addition, Nexter is exhibiting its range of 20, 25, and 30 mm medium caliber guns, in service on land, naval, and air platforms, which equip the NARWHAL turret mounted on Greek frigates and the VBCI MkI.

In addition to these, Nexter is also presenting its entire range of medium and heavy-caliber ammunition:

• 105 and 15 5mm for artillery
• 120 mm for tanks
• 81 and 120 for mortars
• 20, 25, 30, and 40 mm 
• 84 mm for the infantry

The company’s presence is complemented by the family of Nerva Unmanned Land Vehicles, which are equipped with various mission kits including reconnaissance and counter-IED kits.

The public can visit Nexter’s booth at Booth D4, Hall 2.

Also read: EUROSATORY 2022 | The Jaguar 6X6 as a potential option to replace the “ageing” Cascavels of the National Guard