Nexter Reveals the Revolutionary VBCI Philoctetes at DEFEA Event
To mark the inaugural edition of the DEFEA exhibition, taking place in Athens from July 13 to 15, 2021, Nexter is showcasing the VBCI Philoctetes for the very first time. This comprehensive infantry warfare apparatus is fitted with a remotely controlled 40mm CT (cased telescoped) turret from CTAi, along with a medium-range missile system (MMP) from MBDA. It fulfills the Hellenic army’s demands for agility, protection, adaptability, and firepower. Dubbed Philoctetes, after the mythological figure of the Trojan War, this vehicle will be featured at the booth (Hall 3 – D17A) adorned in the colors of Greek military vehicles.
Nexter is additionally showcasing the 105 LG artillery piece, which is ideally suited for straightforward operations necessitating a highly mobile fire support capability. To satisfy the Hellenic Army’s requirements for artillery munitions, Nexter is displaying its selection of 105mm and 155mm conventional munitions, along with smart munitions (BONUS and KATANA), as well as propellant charges and fuses. Furthermore, an extensive sample of the munitions catalog is available at the booth: 20, 25, 30, and 40mm CT medium-caliber munitions, in addition to 40, 76, 100, and 127mm naval munitions, along with protective smoke grenades.
In the realm of medium-caliber firearms, Nexter is unveiling the 40CT gun mounted on the VBCI Philoctetes, selected by the French (RapidFire, JAGUAR), British (Ajax), and Belgian (JAGUAR CaMo) armed forces. The 40mm caliber offers a genuine superiority over the 30mm, extending its engagement range to a wider array of targets (UAVs, aircraft, light vehicles). The 30mm cannon is also emphasized, as it equips the Mirage 2000 (30×113) and Rafale (30×150) combat jets in Greece. Additionally, the P20 pintle-mount system, renowned for its efficiency, ease of maintenance, and reliability, is showcased at the booth.
Lastly, Nexter’s robotics division is displaying its Nerva series of ground robots fitted with various mission modules, along with the IXOS multi-mission aerial drone, which can be outfitted with an optronic ball or an explosive device to engage a specific target.
