Freccia IFV

{{Short description|Italian wheeled infantry fighting vehicle}}

{{Infobox weapon

| name = VBM Freccia

| image = Italian Army - Mechanized Brigade "Pinerolo" Freccia IFV.jpg

| caption = A Freccia IFV of the Mechanized Brigade "Pinerolo"

| origin = {{flag|Italy}}

| type = 8x8 Armoured Fighting Vehicle

| is_vehicle = yes

| service = Since 2008

| used_by = {{army|Italy}}
For more details, see Operators

| designer = Iveco Defence Vehicles and OTO Melara

| design_date = 1996

| manufacturer = Iveco Defence Vehicles and OTO Melara

| unit_cost = 6 million in 2008

7 million in 2022

| production_date = Since 2002

| number = 283 {{cite web|title=Iveco Group goes on stock exchange while Italy MoD signs for the Freccia upgrade programme with CIO, Italy|date=17 January 2022 |url=https://www.edrmagazine.eu/iveco-group-goes-on-stock-exchange-while-italy-mod-signs-for-the-freccia-upgrade-programme-with-cio|access-date=17 January 2022}}

| variants = See Variants

| image_size = 250

}}

The VBM – Freccia is a family of 8x8 armoured vehicles that was designed and manufactured for the Italian Army by Iveco Defence Vehicles for the hull, the engine and the suspension, and OTO Melara for the armament. The first variant to be developed was the IFV, the Freccia being equipped with a Hitfist turret, the same as the one installed on the Dardo IFV.{{Cite web |title=VBM Freccia Infantry Fighting Vehicle {{!}} MilitaryToday.com |url=https://www.militarytoday.com/apc/vbm_freccia.htm#:~:text=The%20VBM%20Freccia%20is%20fitted,rear%20ramp%20or%20roof%20hatches. |access-date=2023-11-04 |website=www.militarytoday.com}}

Background

The Italian Army was looking for a successor to some of the Cold War era M113 variants in the Italian Army, among which the VCC-1 infantry fighting vehicle, the VCC-2 armoured personnel carrier and the M106 mortar carrier.

The {{ill|VCC-1 IFV|it|VCC-1 Camillino}} was replaced by the Dardo IFV. The Freccia was ordered to replace Cold War VCC-2 armoured personnel carriers of the Mechanized Brigade "Pinerolo" in Southern Italy.

A change in the doctrine for a more mobile vehicle was the reason behind the choice of a wheeled platform. And as a support to the infantry, a turret was selected to equip the successor of the VCC-2 APC variant, which increased the capabilities and the power of the infantry brigades. Some other variants such as command post vehicles, mortar carriers are also in use in the Italian Army.

Several batches have been ordered since the first one in 2006.

Design

= Design of the Freccia platform =

The VBM – Freccia is a Medium Armoured Combat Vehicle ("Veicolo Blindato Medio Freccia"). It is an up-armoured variant of the Centauro (tactical reconnaissance and tank destroyer). It was designed by Iveco Defence Vehicles and OTO Melara with their own resources in order to meet the needs of the Italian Army. A first prototype was produced in 1996. Following a long test campaign, the Italian army selected this vehicle as the winner of the competition and placed a first order for 249 vehicles in 2006.{{Cite web |title=Freccia IFV (2006) |url=https://tanks-encyclopedia.com/modern/Italy/Freccia-IFV.php |access-date=2023-06-08 |website=tanks-encyclopedia.com}} In 2021, a contract was concluded for the design of a MLU of this first generation of vehicles.

After this first batch, the Italian Army needed additional vehicles to replace the specialised variants of the M113 in service.

The electronic architecture of the vehicle is designed according to the NATO General Vehicle Architecture (NGVA) STANAG 4754.[https://www.ar.admin.ch/content/ar-internet/de/armasuisse-wissenschaft-und-technologie-w-t/forschungsmanagement/forschungsprogramm7/_jcr_content/contentPar/tabs/items/download/tabPar/downloadlist/downloadItems/29_1512572386493.download/2017_Buch_Technologiefr%C3%BCherkennung_2017-10-30_final_web.pdf Federal Office for Defence Procurement] {{dead link|date=March 2024}} This agreement focuses on making the architecture modular, easy and less costly to adapt. Applications can be added to the multi functional control unit as plug and play. It reduces the number of application specific control units, and therefore minimises the need for space and energy. The data, power, communication, sensors, effectors are all integrated according to this architecture. One of the element of this architecture is the SICCONA C2D command, control and navigation system, which includes NEC (Network Enabled Capability).{{Cite web |title=Conclusi i test del sistema C2D/N EVO - Esercito Italiano |url=https://www.esercito.difesa.it/comunicazione/Pagine/sistema-C2D-N-EVO_201219.aspx |access-date=2023-06-08 |website=www.esercito.difesa.it}}

The main variant is the Infantry Fighting Vehicle, and the Anti Tank variant. Both are equipped with a Hitfist manned turret, which has a KBA 25 mm autocannon. For the anti-tank variant, the first variant is equipped with anti-tank missiles to be employed by the dismounted infantry. In the future, a Spike LR missile is to be integrated to the turret.

= Upgrade to the Freccia PLUS Platform =

Additional vehicles for reconnaissance and additional infantry fighting capabilities were needed to equip the infantry troops. Improvements on the Freccia platform were necessary to keep up with the new technologies.{{Cite web |last=Valpolini |first=Paolo |date=2022-01-17 |title=Iveco Group goes on stock exchange while Italy MoD signs for the Freccia upgrade programme with CIO |url=https://www.edrmagazine.eu/iveco-group-goes-on-stock-exchange-while-italy-mod-signs-for-the-freccia-upgrade-programme-with-cio |access-date=2023-06-08 |website=EDR Magazine |language=en-GB}}

The Freccia PLUS is a development of the Centauro 2. The main improvements include a new powertrain. The engine power is raised from {{convert|550|hp|kW|abbr=on}} to {{convert|720|hp|kW|abbr=on}}, by modifying the engine to common rail direct injection, and preparing it for a future hybrid-electric propulsion system.{{Cite web |date=2024-12-31 |title=Iveco – Oto Melara Consortium signs contract to supply 76 VBM PLUS vehicles to the Italian Army |url=https://defence-industry.eu/iveco-oto-melara-consortium-signs-contract-to-supply-76-vbm-plus-vehicles-to-the-italian-army/ |access-date=2024-12-31 |language=en}}

The armament capabilities are improved. The turret selected is the unmanned Hitfist ® OWS equipped with the Leonardo’s X-GUN 30mm 30×173mm chain gun replacing the Oerlikon KBA 25 mm autocannon and can be equipped with anti-tank guided missiles mounted on the side of the turret. The Spike LR is the one used by the Italian Army. The turret is also equipped with a new fire control system. The thermal aiming for the gunner is supplied by Leonardo with the [https://electronics.leonardo.com/en/products/lothar-1 Lothar D] (Land Optronic Thermal Aiming Resource). The commander gets a digital sight, and a mast with a panoramic sight is available especially for the reconnaissance variant, the [https://electronics.leonardo.com/documents/16277707/18401526/Janus_T_LQ_mm07832_.pdf?t=1538987644205 Janus D] also supplied by Leonardo.

As for the communications, Leonardo supplies the SWave VQ1 4-channel software defined radio which operates in the HF, VHF and UHF bands, plus a digital intercom system is available. The Italian Army variant is including it in its Network Enhanced Capability, known as the SICCONA C2D/N EVO which is to be expanded to the other armoured fighting vehicles.

The navigation system is using both the GPS signals and the Galileo PRS.

The Iron Fist hard-kill protection system has already been tested, a potential integration is being evaluated by the Italian Army. It would most likely be the Light-Decoupled Iron Fist (IF-LD).

Variants

= Operational variants =

File:Italian Army - 82nd Infantry Regiment "Torino" VBM Freccia Mortar Carrier.jpgVariants of the Freccia platform in service with the Italian Army.{{Cite web |last=bocquelet |first=david |title=Freccia IFV (2006) |url=https://tank-afv.com/modern/Italy/Freccia-IFV.php |access-date=2023-11-04 |website=tank-afv.com |language=en}}

  • VBM da Combattimento (AIFV):
    An infantry fighting vehicle equipped with a two-man Hitfist turret with a KBA 25 mm autocannon.
  • VBM Controcarro (ATGW):
    An infantry fighting vehicle equipped with a two-man Hitfist turret with a KBA 25 mm autocannon. Anti-tank guided missiles are included in the internal armament of the variant. A dual Spike LR anti-tank missile launcher will be added to the turret with the middle-life upgrade.
  • VBM Porta Mortaio:
    A mortar carrier equipped with the TDA-2R2M 120 mm mortar system and a RCWS Hitrole L with a M2 Browning 12.7 mm NATO machine gun
  • VBM Posto Comando:
    Two variants are in operation in the Italian Army
  • Veicolo Nucleo Comando (nu. Cdo): {{cite web|url=https://www.iveco-otomelara.com/backoffice/global/docs/upload/Panorama%20Difesa_VBM%20Posto%20Comando_Apr%202021.pdf|title=Panorama Difesa|website=IVECO|access-date=10 March 2024}}
    Used by the brigade commander, equipped with a RCWS Hitrole L which uses a heavy machine gun, the M2 Browning in 12.7 mm NATO. A C4 (command, control, communication and computer) installation is part of its equipment, and additional communication equipment compared to the base IFV variant. It has access to SATCOM, it is equipped with the SIACCON system (Italian Automated Information System for Command and Control), 3 servers, and 4 LRT350+ computer posts.[http://www.larimart.it/it/computer-display/soluzioni-veicolari/comp-lrt-350-pc/ LRT350+] larimart.it
  • Veicolo Nucleo Tattico (nu. tat.):
    Vehicle used by the platoon commander. The base vehicle is the VBM da Combattimento (AIFV), equipped with a two-man Hitfist turret with a KBA 25 mm autocannon and the same C4 equipment as for the Veicolo Nucleo Comando is available in the armoured vehicle.

= Future variants =

The army plans to acquire 300 Freccia EVO, 120 of which in the Reconnaissance variant.{{cite web |title=I programmi di acquisizione ed ammodernamento dell'Esercito Italiano |url=https://www.analisidifesa.it/2020/05/lesercito-italiano-ed-i-recenti-programmi-di-acquisizione-ed-ammodernamento/ |access-date=27 May 2020 |publisher=Analisi Difesa}}

File:Army parade of Italy 2011 22.jpg DRACO]]

File:Centauro155-39LW MSPO2012a.jpg

= Prototypes =

Prototypes based on both the Freccia and the Centauro common chassis:

  • VBM Freccia APC:{{Cite web |last=Kowak |date=2015-07-09 |title=VBM Freccia |url=https://migration.militarypedia.it/vbm-freccia/ |access-date=2023-11-04 |website=Militarypedia |language=it-IT }}{{Dead link|date=December 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}
    An armoured personnel carrier variant that was initially planned, but none have been ordered yet, and none are planned to be ordered by the Italian Army.
  • VBC con torretta T60/70A: {{Cite web |last=Giusti |first=Arturo |date=2021-03-24 |title=M24 Chaffee with 60 HVMS |url=https://tanks-encyclopedia.com/m24-chaffee-with-60-hvms/ |access-date=2023-11-04 |website=Tank Encyclopedia |language=en-US}}
    A variant equipped with a turret Hitfist on which a 60mm self-loading autocannon by OTO Melara is installed, expected to be used as an anti-armour vehicle, but it was never ordered.
  • VBM Freccia Recupero:
    An armoured recovery vehicle.
  • DRACO: {{Cite web |date=2023-10-26 |title=Le prospettive di OTO Melara – Analisi Difesa |url=https://www.analisidifesa.it/2014/03/le-prospettive-di-oto-melara/ |access-date=2023-11-05 |language=it-IT}}{{Cite web |title=Draco 76 mm Self-Propelled Anti-Aircraft Gun {{!}} MilitaryToday.com |url=https://www.militarytoday.com/artillery/draco.htm |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=www.militarytoday.com}}
    A SPAAG (self-propelled anti-air gun) and anti-missile gun, based on the naval autocannon OTO-Melara 76 mm Super Rapido. It can also be used as C-RAM system with APFSDS(aurmor piercing fin stabalized discarding sabot) ammunition.{{Cite web |title=The Strales 76mm system with DART guided ammunition |url=https://www.leonardo.com/en/press-release-detail/-/detail/the-strales-76mm-system-with-dart-guided-ammunition |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=www.leonardo.com |language=en-US}}
  • Porcospino: {{Cite web |title=Porcupine Prototype 155-mm Self-Propelled Howitzer {{!}} MilitaryToday.com |url=https://www.militarytoday.com/artillery/porcupine.htm |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=www.militarytoday.com |archive-date=2023-08-04 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230804062702/https://www.militarytoday.com/artillery/porcupine.htm |url-status=dead }}
    The "Porcupine" is a self-propelled howitzer using a 155mm L/39 artillery gun.

= Freccia (first phase) =

class="wikitable"

| style="background:#EAECF0;border-left:solid 2px black;border-top:solid 2px black;border-bottom:solid 2px black" |Parameters

| align="center" style="background:#EAECF0; border-left:solid 2px black;border-top:solid 2px black;border-bottom:solid 2px black" |APC

Armoured personnel carrier

{{Cite web |title=VBM FRECCIA APC |url=https://www.iveco-otomelara.com/wheeled/VBMFrecciaAPC.php |access-date=2023-06-01 |website=www.iveco-otomelara.com}}{{cite web|url=https://www.iveco-otomelara.com/docs/VBM-Freccia-APC.pdf|title=VBM Freccia APC|website=IVECO|access-date=10 March 2024}}

| align="center" style="background:#EAECF0; border-top:solid 2px black;border-bottom:solid 2px black" |IFV

Infantry Fighting Vehicle

{{Cite web |title=VBM FRECCIA AIFV/ATGM |url=https://www.iveco-otomelara.com/wheeled/VBMFrecciaAIFV-ATGM.php |access-date=2023-06-01 |website=www.iveco-otomelara.com}}{{cite web|url=https://www.iveco-otomelara.com/docs/VBM-Freccia-AIFV-ATGM.pdf|title=VBM Freccia AIFV ATGM|website=IVECO|access-date=10 March 2024}}

| align="center" style="background:#EAECF0; border-top:solid 2px black;border-bottom:solid 2px black" |C2V

Platoon Command Post

{{Cite web |title=VBM FRECCIA COMMAND POST |url=https://www.iveco-otomelara.com/wheeled/VBMFreccia-Land-TU-CU-POST.php |access-date=2023-06-01 |website=www.iveco-otomelara.com}}{{cite web|url=https://www.iveco-otomelara.com/wheeled/VBMFreccia-Land-TU-CU/Scheda_VBM_Freccia_LTCP_2021-spec.pdf|title=VBM Freccia Land TU Cu|website=IVECO|access-date=10 March 2024}}

| align="center" style="background:#EAECF0; border-top:solid 2px black;border-bottom:solid 2px black" |C2V

Squadron Command Post

| align="center" style="background:#EAECF0; border-top:solid 2px black;border-bottom:solid 2px black" |AMC

Armoured Mortar Carrier

{{Cite web |title=VBM FRECCIA AMC |url=https://www.iveco-otomelara.com/wheeled/VBMFrecciaAMC.php |access-date=2023-06-01 |website=www.iveco-otomelara.com}}[https://www.iveco-otomelara.com/docs/VBM-Freccia-AMC.pdf BM FRECCIA AMC] iveco.com

| align="center" style="background:#EAECF0; border-right:solid 2px black;border-top:solid 2px black;border-bottom:solid 2px black" |ARV

Armoured Recovery Vehicle

{{Cite web |title=VBM FRECCIA ARV |url=https://www.iveco-otomelara.com/wheeled/VBMFrecciaARV.php |access-date=2023-06-01 |website=www.iveco-otomelara.com}}[https://www.iveco-otomelara.com/docs/VBM-Freccia-ARV.pdf VBM FRECCIA ARV] iveco-otomelara.com

style="background:#EAECF0;border-left:solid 2px black;border-right:solid 2px black" |

| colspan="6" style="background:#EAECF0;border-right:solid 2px black" align="center" |Dimensions

style="background:#EAECF0;border-left:solid 2px black;border-right:solid 2px black" |Internal volume

| align="center" |{{convert|13.5|m3|ft3|abbr=on}}

| align="center" |{{convert|11.0|m3|ft3|abbr=on}}

| align="center" |{{convert|11.0|m3|ft3|abbr=on}}

| align="center" |{{convert|13.5|m3|ft3|abbr=on}}

| align="center" |{{convert|13.5|m3|ft3|abbr=on}}

| style="border-right:solid 2px black" align="center" |Crew 7 m3Technical 6 m3

style="background:#EAECF0;border-left:solid 2px black;border-right:solid 2px black" |Length

| align="center" |{{convert|7.99|m|ft|abbr=on}}

| align="center" |{{convert|8.56|m|ft|abbr=on}}

| align="center" |{{convert|8.56|m|ft|abbr=on}}

| align="center" |{{convert|8.00|m|ft|abbr=on}}

| align="center" |{{convert|7.99|m|ft|abbr=on}}

| style="border-right:solid 2px black" align="center" |{{convert|8.25|m|ft|abbr=on}}

style="background:#EAECF0;border-left:solid 2px black;border-right:solid 2px black" |Height (hull)

| align="center" |{{convert|2.01|m|ft|abbr=on}}

| align="center" |{{convert|2.04|m|ft|abbr=on}}

| align="center" |{{convert|2.04|m|ft|abbr=on}}

| align="center" |{{convert|2.04|m|ft|abbr=on}}

| align="center" |{{convert|2.90|m|ft|abbr=on}}

| style="border-right:solid 2px black" align="center" |{{convert|2.04|m|ft|abbr=on}}

style="background:#EAECF0;border-left:solid 2px black;border-right:solid 2px black" |Height (with turret)

| align="center" |{{convert|2.25|m|ft|abbr=on}}

| align="center" |{{convert|3.18|m|ft|abbr=on}}

| align="center" |{{convert|3.22|m|ft|abbr=on}}

| align="center" |{{convert|3.00|m|ft|abbr=on}}

| align="center" |

| style="border-right:solid 2px black" align="center" |{{convert|2.75|m|ft|abbr=on}}

style="background:#EAECF0;border-left:solid 2px black;border-right:solid 2px black" |Width

| colspan="6" style="border-right:solid 2px black" align="center" |{{convert|2.99|m|ft|abbr=on}}

style="background:#EAECF0;border-left:solid 2px black;border-right:solid 2px black" |

| colspan="6" style="background:#EAECF0;border-right:solid 2px black" align="center" |Mass

style="background:#EAECF0;border-left:solid 2px black;border-right:solid 2px black" |Empty

| align="center" |19.5 t

| align="center" |22.0 t

| align="center" |22.0 t

| align="center" |20.6 t

| align="center" |21.5 t

| style="border-right:solid 2px black" align="center" |23.0

style="background:#EAECF0;border-left:solid 2px black;border-right:solid 2px black" |Payload

| align="center" |10.5 t

| align="center" |8.0 t

| align="center" |8.0 t

| align="center" |8.0 t

| align="center" |8.5 t

| style="border-right:solid 2px black" align="center" |7.0

style="background:#EAECF0;border-left:solid 2px black;border-right:solid 2px black" |GVW (max)

| colspan="6" style="border-right:solid 2px black" align="center" |31.5 t

style="background:#EAECF0;border-left:solid 2px black;border-right:solid 2px black" |

| colspan="6" style="background:#EAECF0;border-right:solid 2px black" align="center" |Weapon System / Mission Equipment

style="background:#EAECF0;border-left:solid 2px black;border-right:solid 2px black" |Crew + passengers

| align="center" |3 + 10

| align="center" |3 + 8

| align="center" |3 + 3

| align="center" |3 + 4

| align="center" |3 to 5 crews

| style="border-right:solid 2px black" align="center" |4

rowspan="2" style="background:#EAECF0;border-left:solid 2px black;border-right:solid 2px black" |Main mission equipment

| align="center" |RWS Hitrole®

| align="center" |Turret Hitfist®

| align="center" |Turret Hitfist®

| align="center" |RWS Hitrole®

| align="center" |Thales 2R2M

| style="border-right:solid 2px black" align="center" |Recovery equipment

align="center" |40 mm grenade launcher /Machine gun heavy or medium

| align="center" |KBA 25 mm /Spike LR / Coaxial MG 7.62 mm

| align="center" |KBA 25 mm / Spike LR / Coaxial MG 7.62 mm

| align="center" |40 mm grenade launcher / Machine gun heavy or medium

| align="center" |Rifled Recoiled Mounted Mortar 120 mm

| style="border-right:solid 2px black" align="center" |Hydraulic crane 245.2 kN·Main winch 30 t

style="background:#EAECF0;border-left:solid 2px black;border-right:solid 2px black" |

| colspan="6" style="background:#EAECF0;border-right:solid 2px black" align="center" |Vehicle performances

style="background:#EAECF0;border-left:solid 2px black;border-right:solid 2px black" |Max speed

| colspan="6" style="border-right:solid 2px black" align="center" |{{convert|110|km/h|mph|abbr=on}}

style="background:#EAECF0;border-left:solid 2px black;border-right:solid 2px black" |Range on road

| colspan="6" style="border-right:solid 2px black" align="center" |{{convert|800|km|mi|abbr=on}}

style="background:#EAECF0;border-left:solid 2px black;border-right:solid 2px black" |Gradient / Side

| colspan="6" style="border-right:solid 2px black" align="center" |60% (31.0°)

style="background:#EAECF0;border-left:solid 2px black;border-right:solid 2px black" |Side slope

| colspan="6" style="border-right:solid 2px black" align="center" |30% (16.7°)

style="background:#EAECF0;border-left:solid 2px black;border-right:solid 2px black" |Step

| colspan="6" style="border-right:solid 2px black" align="center" |{{convert|0.6|m|ft|abbr=on}}

style="background:#EAECF0;border-left:solid 2px black;border-right:solid 2px black" |Trench

| colspan="6" style="border-right:solid 2px black" align="center" |{{convert|2.0|m|ft|abbr=on}}

style="background:#EAECF0;border-left:solid 2px black;border-right:solid 2px black" |Fording depth

| colspan="6" style="border-right:solid 2px black" align="center" |{{convert|1.5|m|ft|abbr=on}}

style="background:#EAECF0;border-left:solid 2px black;border-right:solid 2px black" |Turning radius

| colspan="6" style="border-right:solid 2px black" align="center" |{{convert|9.0|m|ft|abbr=on}}, with 3 steering axles (1st, 2nd, 4th)

style="background:#EAECF0;border-left:solid 2px black;border-right:solid 2px black" |

| colspan="6" style="background:#EAECF0;border-right:solid 2px black" align="center" |Power train

style="background:#EAECF0;border-left:solid 2px black;border-right:solid 2px black" |Engine performance

| colspan="6" style="border-right:solid 2px black" align="center" |Engine, Iveco 8262 / Power {{convert|550|hp|kW|abbr=on}} / Torque {{convert|2000|Nm|lbft|abbr=on}}

style="background:#EAECF0;border-left:solid 2px black;border-right:solid 2px black" |Power / mass ratio

| colspan="6" style="border-right:solid 2px black" align="center" |{{convert|17.5|hp/t|kW/t|abbr=on}} at GVW

style="background:#EAECF0;border-left:solid 2px black;border-right:solid 2px black" |Transmission

| colspan="6" style="border-right:solid 2px black" align="center" |Automatic, 5 front + 2 rear gars

style="background:#EAECF0;border-left:solid 2px black;border-right:solid 2px black" |Driveline

| colspan="6" style="border-right:solid 2px black" align="center" |Single-differential twin-shaft design (H-shaped driveline)

style="background:#EAECF0;border-left:solid 2px black;border-right:solid 2px black" |Suspension

| colspan="6" style="border-right:solid 2px black" align="center" |Hydro-pneumatic and independent suspension

style="background:#EAECF0;border-left:solid 2px black;border-right:solid 2px black" |

| colspan="6" style="background:#EAECF0;border-right:solid 2px black" align="center" |Protection

style="background:#EAECF0;border-left:solid 2px black;border-right:solid 2px black" |Hull

| colspan="6" style="border-right:solid 2px black" |Hull made of high hardness monocoque steel and direct fire ballistic armour (ceramic).

style="background:#EAECF0;border-left:solid 2px black;border-right:solid 2px black" |Floor

| colspan="6" style="border-right:solid 2px black" |V-shaped floot made of high hardness steel

  • Base level: anti-mine seats + anti-mine / IED floor withstanding up to {{convert|6|kg|lb|abbr=on}} TNT equivalent
  • Optional: increase of the floor protection to withstand up to {{convert|8|kg|lb|abbr=on}} TNT equivalent
style="background:#EAECF0;border-left:solid 2px black;border-bottom:solid 2px black" |Optional systems

| colspan="6" style="border-left:solid 2px black;border-bottom:solid 2px black;border-right:solid 2px black" |Smoke grenade launchers (8 x 80 mm) / NBC protection / IED active jamming protection suite / laser warning system / fire extinguishing system in the crew cabin

Current operators

{{unreferenced section|date=September 2023}}

= Operators =

= Successful bids =

== Total orders expected ==

{{army|Italy}} (630)

:Phase 1, delivered from 2007 to 2017 (249):https://www.iveco-otomelara.com/backoffice/global/docs/upload/Panorama%20Difesa_VBM%20Posto%20Comando_Apr%202021.pdf

:* 172 VBM Freccia da Combattimento (AIFV)

:* 36 VBM Freccia Controcarro (ATGW)

:* 20 VBM Freccia Posto Comando

:** 10 Nucleo Comando

:** 10 Nucleo Tattico

:*21 VBM Freccia Porta Mortaio

:Phase 2, planned acquisitions from 2019 (381):

:* 163 VBM Freccia da Combattimento (AIFV)

:* 36 VBM Freccia Controcarro (ATGW)

:* 120 VBM Freccia PLUS Esploranti

:* 8 VBM Freccia Posto Comando

:** 4 Nucleo Comando

:** 4 Nucleo Tattico

:*14 VBM Freccia Porta Mortaio

:*40 VBM Freccia Recupero (10×10)

== Detailed orders ==

{{army|Italy}} (401)

:Phase 1, delivered from 2007 to 2017 (249):

:* Tranche 1, €310 million (54):https://dati.camera.it/ocd/aic.rdf/aic4_03685_16

:** 50 VBM Freccia da Combattimento (AIFV)

:** 1 VBM Freccia Controcarro (ATGW)

:** 2 VBM Freccia Posto Comando

:*** 1 Nucleo Comando

:*** 1 Nucleo Tattico

:** 1 VBM Freccia Porta Mortaio

:* Tranche 2 (109):

:** 61 VBM Freccia da Combattimento (AIFV)

:** 24 VBM Freccia Controcarro (ATGW)

:** 12 VBM Freccia Posto Comando

:*** 6 Nucleo Comando

:*** 6 Nucleo Tattico

:** 12 VBM Freccia Porta Mortaio

:* Tranche 3 (86):

:** 61 VBM Freccia da Combattimento (AIFV)

:** 11 VBM Freccia Controcarro (ATGW)

:** 6 VBM Freccia Posto Comando

:*** 3 Nucleo Comando

:*** 3 Nucleo Tattico

:** 8 VBM Freccia Porta Mortaio

:Phase 2, confirmed acquisitions since 2019 (152):

:*Tranche 1, December 2019 (30):{{Cite web |date=2024-12-22 |title=Altri 30 VBM Freccia per l'Esercito – Analisi Difesa |url=https://www.analisidifesa.it/2020/01/altri-30-vbm-freccia-per-lesercito/ |access-date=2024-12-31 |language=it-IT}}{{Cite web |last= |date=2020-01-16 |title=Italy Orders Additional Freccia 8x8 VBM |url=https://www.joint-forces.com/defence-equipment-news/28895-italy-orders-additional-freccia-8x8-vbm |access-date=2024-12-31 |website=Joint Forces News |language=en-GB}}{{Cite web |title=RID Rivista Italiana Difesa - Il CIO fornirà altri 30 VBM all'Esercito Italiano |url=https://www.rid.it/shownews/3417/il-cio-fornira-altri-30-vbm-all-esercito-italiano |access-date=2024-12-31 |website=www.rid.it |language=it}}

:**5 VBM Freccia da Combattimento (AIFV)

:** 25 VBM Freccia Controcarro (ATGW)

:*Tranche 2, December 2021, €400 million (46):{{Cite web |title=Firmato il Contratto per l'acquisizione di VBM |url=https://www.difesa.it/sgd-dna/notizie/firmato-il-contratto-per-lacquisizione-di-vbm/30933.html |access-date=2024-12-31 |website=www.difesa.it}}

:**26 VBM Freccia Posto Comando

:*** 13 Nucleo Comando

:*** 13 Nucleo Tattico

:** 14 VBM Freccia Porta Mortaio

:** 6 VBM Freccia Recupero e Soccorso (10×10)

:*Tranche 3, December 2024 (76):{{Cite web |last=redazionale |date=2024-12-31 |title=Settantasei VBM Plus per l'Esercito Italiano |url=https://aresdifesa.it/settantasei-vbm-plus-per-lesercito-italiano/ |access-date=2024-12-31 |website=Ares Osservatorio Difesa |language=it-IT}}

:**60 VBM Freccia PLUS da Combattimento (AIFV)

:** 16 VBM Freccia PLUS Controcarro (ATGW)

= Future contracts =

{{army|Italy}} (229)

:The following list includes the remaining number of each model that should be ordered for the Phase 2 of the VBM Freccia programme, but as the anti-tank variant was ordered in a larger quantity than initially planned (5 additional), same for the command variant (18 additional), this list below will be adjusted by the Italian government.

:* 98 VBM Freccia PLUS da Combattimento (AIFV)

:* 120 VBM Freccia PLUS Esploranti

:* 34 VBM Freccia Recupero e Soccorso (10×10)

= Failed bids =

{{flagicon|RU}} Russian Ground Forces {{Cite web |last=Eshel |first=Tamir |date=2012-05-12 |title=Russia Testing Italian Centauro Wheeled Tanks - Defense Update |url=https://defense-update.com/20120512_russia-testing-centauro-italian-wheeled-tanks.html,%20https://defense-update.com/20120512_russia-testing-centauro-italian-wheeled-tanks.html |access-date=2023-11-05 |language=en-US}}{{Dead link|date=December 2024|bot=InternetArchiveBot|fix-attempted=yes}}

: In 2012, the Russian Army tested the Freccia fitted with a 30mm turret and the Centauro in 3 variants, equipped with the 105mm canon on the Centauro, one fitted with a Russian 125mm tank gun, and another one with a NATO 120mm tank gun with the HITFACT 120mm turret.

: A discussion for up to 2,500 vehicles was mentioned. Following the Annexation of Crimea in 2014, sanctions were imposed on Russia, and all cooperation on armament was cancelled.{{Cite web |title=Sanctions adopted following Russia's military aggression against Ukraine |url=https://finance.ec.europa.eu/eu-and-world/sanctions-restrictive-measures/sanctions-adopted-following-russias-military-aggression-against-ukraine_en |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=finance.ec.europa.eu |language=en}}

{{army|Slovenia}} (up to 106)

: The Slovenian Army is looking for up to 106 APC with a budget of €700 million after rejecting the contract for the Boxer. The finalists of the competition are the Piranha V, the Freccia, the Rosomak L and the Patria AMVXP.{{Cite web |date=7 September 2023 |title=The Slovenia Times |url=https://sloveniatimes.com/39785/potential-suppliers-of-armoured-vehicles-winnowed-down-to-four |access-date=2023-11-24 |website=sloveniatimes.com}} On 11 July 2024 it was announced, that the Patria AMVxp won the competition.{{Cite web |date=11 July 2024 |title=The Slovenia Times |url=https://sloveniatimes.com/40665/slovenia-to-buy-armoured-personnel-carriers-from-patria |access-date=2024-08-14 |website=sloveniatimes.com}}

{{army|Spain}} {{Cite web |last=Miller |first=Stephen W. |date=2017-12-01 |title=Wheels of Fortune |url=https://www.armadainternational.com/2017/12/wheels-of-fortune-ifv/ |access-date=2023-11-04 |website=Armada International |language=en-US}}

: In 2015, a program to replace the VEC-M1, the BMR-M1 and part of the M113 fleet was launched by the Spanish Army. The competitors were the Boxer, the Freccia, the Patria AMV, the Piranha V, the SEP and the VBCI.{{Cite web |last=Villarejo |first=Esteban |date=2015-08-22 |title=GD Favored To Win Spanish Armored Vehicle Contract |url=https://www.defensenews.com/land/2015/08/22/gd-favored-to-win-spanish-armored-vehicle-contract/ |access-date=2023-10-01 |website=Defense News |language=en}}

: In September 2015, the competition was won by GDELS with the Piranha V.{{cite web | title=Spain selects Piranha 5 as new 8×8 armoured infantry vehicle | website=Defence Blog | date=28 September 2015 | url=https://defence-blog.com/spain-selects-piranha-5-as-new-8x8-armoured-infantry-vehicle/ | access-date=10 March 2024}} In December 2019, the Spanish Government cancelled the program, and relaunched the competition.{{Cite web |last=admin |date=2019-12-29 |title=Spanish Government Cancels â'¬2.1 Billion Piranha 5 Contract |url=https://militaryleak.com/2019/12/29/spanish-government-cancels-e2-1-billion-piranha-5-contract/ |access-date=2023-10-01 |website=MilitaryLeak |language=en-US}} In August 2020, the Piranha V of GDELS Santa Barbara Sistemas in collaboration with Indra Sistemas and Sapa Placencia won again the competition for a first batch of 348 vehicles for €1.74 billion.{{Cite web |last=Editorial |first=Defense Brief |date=2020-08-25 |title=Spain hands out $2.06 billion contract for Dragon VCR 8x8 vehicles |url=https://defbrief.com/2020/08/25/spain-hands-out-2-06-billion-contract-for-dragon-vcr-8x8-vehicles/ |access-date=2023-10-01 |website=Defense Brief |language=en-US |archive-date=2023-11-04 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231104131058/https://defbrief.com/2020/08/25/spain-hands-out-2-06-billion-contract-for-dragon-vcr-8x8-vehicles/ |url-status=dead }} It is known as the {{ill|Dragón VCR|es|Dragón (vehículo blindado)}}.

= Tender =

: {{flag|Chile}} (> 200)

: The Chilean Army was looking for a successor to its 160 Piraña I 6×6 and 30 Piraña I 8×8. On a long term perspective, more than 200 vehicles are expected to be purchased, but in the meantime, a first phase of the replacement includes a tender for 82 8×8 armoured vehicles. The requirement mentions a maximum weight of 38 tons. The deadline for the selection is dated April 8, 2025. Among the known competitors were.:{{cite web |date=25 October 2023 |title=Chile opens bidding for new wheeled armored vehicles |url=https://www.defensenews.com/land/2023/10/25/chile-opens-bidding-for-new-wheeled-armored-vehicles/}}{{Cite web |last=InfoDefensa |first=Revista Defensa |title=El Ejército de Chile modifica el proyecto Cromo y analiza comprar 82 carros 4x4, 6x6 y 8x8 |url=https://www.infodefensa.com/texto-diario/mostrar/5084638/ejercito-chile-modifica-proyecto-cromo-analiza-comprar-82-carros-4x4-6x6-8x8 |access-date=2025-02-01 |website=Infodefensa - Noticias de defensa, industria, seguridad, armamento, ejércitos y tecnología de la defensa |language=es}}

:* Altuğ by the Turkish BMC

:* Patria AMV by the Finnish Patria Group

:* Arma by the Turkish Otokar

:* Freccia by the Italian Iveco

:* K808 White Tiger by the South Korean Hyundai Rotem

:* Pandur II 8×8 by the Czech Excalibur Army

:* Stryker 8×8 by the United States US army (the only offer for already used units) {{Cite web |last=InfoDefensa |first=Revista Defensa |title=El Ejército de Chile evalúa la compra de carros Stryker 8x8 de Estados Unidos |url=https://www.infodefensa.com/texto-diario/mostrar/3419837/ejercito-chile-evalua-compra-carros-stryker-8x8-estados-unidos |access-date=2025-02-01 |website=Infodefensa - Noticias de defensa, industria, seguridad, armamento, ejércitos y tecnología de la defensa |language=es}}

:* Terrex ICV by the Singapore ST Engineering{{Cite web |last=InfoDefensa |first=Revista Defensa |title=ST Engineering ofrece el Terrex para el programa de blindados de Chile |url=https://www.infodefensa.com/texto-diario/mostrar/3057405/st-engineering-ofrece-terrex-programa-blindados-chile |access-date=2025-02-01 |website=Infodefensa - Noticias de defensa, industria, seguridad, armamento, ejércitos y tecnología de la defensa |language=es}}

:*:

:

See also

=Comparable vehicles=

{{Div col|colwidth=20em}}

  • {{lwc|BTR-4|BTR 4}}
  • {{lwc|Boxer (armoured fighting vehicle)|Boxer}}
  • {{lwc|CM-32 armoured vehicle|CM-32}}
  • {{lwc|FNSS Pars|FNSS PARS III}}
  • {{lwc|Iveco SuperAV}}
  • {{lwc|K808 White Tiger}}
  • {{lwc|LAV 6}}
  • {{lwc|LAV 6|LAV 700}}
  • {{lwc|Mowag Piranha|Mowag Piranha IIIH}}
  • {{lwc|Mowag Piranha IV}}
  • {{lwc|Mowag Piranha V}}
  • {{lwc|Otokar Arma}}
  • {{lwc|Pandur II}}
  • {{lwc|Patria AMV}}
  • {{lwc|Stryker}}
  • {{lwc|TATA Kestrel}}
  • {{lwc|Terrex ICV}}
  • {{lwc|VBCI}}
  • {{lwc|VPK-7829 Bumerang}}

{{Div col end}}

References