VBM 30 NG: Italy’s Next-Gen Armoured Fighting Vehicle Unveiled

The Italian Army is entering a new era of mobility and firepower with the unveiling of the VBM 30 NG (New Generation), the most advanced version of its 8×8 wheeled Armoured Infantry Fighting Vehicle (AIFV) – the Freccia. Developed by the CIO consortium (a collaboration between IDV and Leonardo), this new model is more than just an upgrade; it's a total transformation that brings the Italian Army’s medium brigades in line with modern NATO standards.

Evolution of the Freccia: From VBM to VBM 30 NG

In the early 2000s, Italy introduced the VBM (Veicolo Blindato Medio) to equip the “Pinerolo” and “Aosta” brigades with medium-weight, fast-moving, and highly mobile armoured vehicles. The Freccia vehicles were first deployed in Afghanistan in 2010, proving their worth in real combat conditions. While earlier versions went through a Mid-Life Upgrade (VBM Plus) to extend service life, the VBM 30 NG represents a whole new generation of capabilities.

Stronger, Smarter, Safer: Key Upgrades in VBM 30 NG

???? Redesigned Hull for Superior Protection

The hull of the VBM 30 NG has been entirely redesigned with a focus on survivability. Wheel arches have been removed, and a V-shaped underbelly has been introduced to better deflect blasts from mines or IEDs. Inspired by IDV’s VBA amphibious vehicle (also used by the US Marines as the ACV), the internal floor is now decoupled from the seating structure, reducing the impact of explosions on troops and preventing leg injuries.

????️ Ballistic Protection and Materials

Ballistic protection has been elevated by at least one level based on NATO STANAG 4569 standards. The use of advanced materials, similar to those in the Centauro II and VBA, enhances the vehicle's ability to withstand modern battlefield threats, including high-velocity projectiles and explosive blasts.

⚙️ Powerful Performance

The VBM 30 NG is designed to handle an increased gross vehicle mass of up to 35 tonnes. Its engine, the IDV 6V TCA Commonrail turbocharged diesel, has been boosted from 550 hp to 720 hp, delivering a torque of 2,500 Nm. Despite the weight increase, the vehicle maintains impressive mobility:

• Max speed: 105 km/h

• Range: 800 km

• Climb capability: 60% gradient

• Side slope: 30%

Hydropneumatic McPherson suspension and improved shock absorbers ensure smoother rides and better stability on rough terrain.

???? Turret Technology: Enhanced Firepower with Leonardo’s Innovation

The VBM 30 NG’s new turret, developed by Leonardo, introduces a leap in digital battlefield capability. It features:

• 30 mm X-Gun with airburst ammunition (ABM) – offering superior lethality and Counter-UAS capability.

• Janus-D panoramic sight with laser rangefinder – effective even against small aerial targets.

• LOTHAR SD digital gunner sight – stabilized and independent from the cannon for higher precision.

• Over 200 ready-to-fire rounds – with under-armour reloading for added safety.

• +60° elevation / -10° depression – allowing for high-angle firing against drones and hidden targets.

The turret's aluminium base structure is protected by upgraded modular armour, ensuring survivability while keeping weight manageable.

???? Smarter Systems: Command, Control & Navigation

The VBM 30 NG integrates Leonardo’s latest C2D/N EVO digital battlefield management system. The crew now benefits from three independent displays (instead of two), improving situational awareness and command efficiency. All systems are NGVA-compliant, meaning they can be easily upgraded in the future with new digital or electronic modules.

The vehicle also features:

• New-generation GPS/Galileo-compatible receiver

• Enhanced intercom system

• SWave VQ1 multi-band radio system

• Harris AN/PRC-152A SATCOM integration

These upgrades enable seamless communication across all operational levels, ensuring the VBM 30 NG remains future-proof and network-ready.

Conclusion

The VBM 30 NG is not just an upgraded Freccia – it is a reimagined AIFV designed for 21st-century warfare. With unmatched mobility, stronger protection, and cutting-edge digital systems, the Italian Army now has a platform that can stand shoulder-to-shoulder with NATO’s best. The first batch of 76 vehicles, ordered in December 2024, marks the beginning of a new chapter in Italy’s mechanized forces, ensuring that its medium brigades remain agile, lethal, and protected in any combat environment.