PARIS, June 28, 2026 — French defense companies S2M Equipment and KNDS France have unveiled the REFURBOT, a heavy unmanned ground combat vehicle (UGCV) developed by converting retired AMX-30 main battle tanks into remotely operated combat platforms. The system was showcased during Eurosatory 2026, highlighting a practical approach to extending the operational life of Cold War-era armored vehicles through modern robotics and remote weapon technologies.
The REFURBOT concept focuses on repurposing surplus AMX-30 tank hulls instead of developing entirely new armored platforms. Thousands of these retired tanks remain in storage across Europe, providing a readily available base for conversion into unmanned combat systems while reducing development costs and making use of existing military infrastructure.
AMX-30 Converted into a Heavy Unmanned Combat Vehicle
As part of the conversion, the AMX-30's original manned turret and 105 mm main gun have been removed. They are replaced by the ARX-25 remotely operated weapon station, equipped with a 25 mm autocannon and a coaxial machine gun.
The ARX-25 is capable of firing both armor-piercing and high-explosive fragmentation ammunition, allowing the vehicle to engage multiple battlefield targets, including:
- Light armored vehicles
- Infantry units
- Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs)
- Low-flying helicopters
According to the companies, the weapon system has an effective engagement range of more than 2,500 meters and provides 360-degree fire coverage, enabling the vehicle to respond to threats from any direction.
TOXO Robotics Kit Enables Crewless Operations
To convert the 36-tonne AMX-30 into an unmanned platform, KNDS France integrated its proprietary TOXO robotics kit. The system enables both full remote control and autonomous mission capabilities, removing the need for an onboard crew.
The vehicle has been fitted with sensor modules at both the front and rear, providing the situational awareness required for navigation, obstacle detection, surveillance, and autonomous operations across different battlefield environments.
Despite the extensive modifications, the REFURBOT retains the mobility characteristics of the original AMX-30 chassis, including a maximum road speed of approximately 65 km/h.
Giving Legacy Tanks a New Operational Role
The AMX-30 entered production in 1966, with 3,571 tanks manufactured between 1966 and 1994. Although its approximately 80 mm frontal armor is considered insufficient against many modern anti-tank threats, converting the platform into an unmanned system removes the risk to onboard personnel while preserving the advantages of a tracked armored vehicle.
By utilizing existing hulls, maintenance infrastructure, and logistics networks, the REFURBOT offers armed forces a cost-effective alternative to developing entirely new heavy robotic combat vehicles.
Addressing Emerging Battlefield Requirements
The REFURBOT reflects the growing demand for unmanned ground systems capable of operating in high-risk environments where crewed vehicles face increased threats from mines, loitering munitions, anti-tank weapons, and artillery.
Heavy unmanned combat vehicles can provide direct fire support, reconnaissance, perimeter security, and operations in hazardous areas while reducing risks to military personnel. The combination of remote weapon stations, autonomous navigation, and legacy armored platforms demonstrates how existing military equipment can be adapted to meet evolving operational requirements.
Displayed at Eurosatory 2026
S2M Equipment and KNDS France presented the REFURBOT demonstrator at the Eurosatory 2026 defense exhibition, held from June 15 to June 19 at Paris-Nord Villepinte. The project represents one of several initiatives within the European defense industry aimed at extending the service life of legacy armored vehicles through robotics and autonomous technologies.
At the time of the unveiling, the companies had not announced production plans, procurement contracts, or potential customers. However, the REFURBOT demonstrates a practical method of transforming surplus Cold War-era tank hulls into modern heavy unmanned combat vehicles while leveraging existing military assets and infrastructure.
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