METLEN  has entered into an exclusive partnership with KNDS France for the production of the latest-generation French 8×8 Infantry Fighting Armoured Vehicle, VBCI PHILOCTETES®, marking a significant milestone in European defence industrial cooperation.

This is the first time the French leader in land defence has signed such an ambitious agreement for 8×8 armoured vehicles. This exclusive alliance includes the transfer of know-how relating to aluminium armour, along with the local production of the VBCI Mk2 welded structure. 

This strategic industrial agreement aims to address the Hellenic Army’s operational requirement for a large fleet of 8×8 infantry fighting vehicles, as well as those of other European armed forces.

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The name PHILOCTETES® pays homage to the hero of the Trojan War and guardian of Heracles’ arrows, which were essential to the Achaeans in their conquest of Troy. The VBCI PHILOCTETES® is an enhanced version of the 8×8 Infantry Fighting Vehicle already in service with the French Army. It features a 40mm remotely operated turret, similar to that of the JAGUAR, and an MMP anti-tank missile pod.

The platform offers comprehensive operational capabilities, countering threats ranging from UAVs and aircraft to light vehicles and main battle tanks. It can carry a full infantry combat group and is available in several variants, including command post, ambulance, and recovery vehicle. The French Army has deployed the VBCI for over a decade in overseas operations, with ongoing enhancements continually improving the platform.

METLEN has a proven track record in the defence sector, having served as a trusted industrial partner of KNDS Deutschland for over 23 years. Its Volos-based production facility currently undertakes shielding welding for the LEOPARD 2 Main Battle Tank. This latest collaboration further strengthens METLEN’s position in European defence manufacturing.

The current geopolitical landscape, combined with the urgent need for enhanced European defence autonomy, necessitates a rapid reinforcement of the continent’s military capabilities. The European rearmament initiative (ReArm) underscores the critical role of localised defence production and industrial self-reliance.

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Through initiatives like this, Greek industry plays a pivotal role in supporting Europe’s strategic independence, while simultaneously  creating highly skilled jobs and fostering technological innovation. With this agreement, METLEN is makinga long-term commitment to strengthening both Greece’s and Europe’s industrial defence base.

METLEN has long been a key player in complex and heavy metal structures, with its Volos facility, established in 1963, internationally recognised for its contributions to defence manufacturing. Over the past 20 years, the plant has been 100% export-oriented, producing for global defence markets.

To support its growing role in defence, METLEN announced in early 2024 the creation of a new advanced metal structures production unit, scheduled to become operational in 2026. Additionally, the company has acquired two more facilities in the Volos Industrial Zone, which are currently undergoing transformation to integrate into METLEN’s industrial ecosystem.

With METLEN’s extensive manufacturing expertise and KNDS France’s cutting-edge knowledge in land defence systems, this partnership represents a critical step towards enhancing Greece’s and Europe’s defence readiness, while reinforcing the region’s industrial capabilities and strategic autonomy for the years ahead.

Also read: EUROSATORY 2024 | KNDS’ VBCI MKII AIFV Philoctetes and the proposal to Greece and Cyprus