France’s KNDS and Metlen partner for armored vehicles

Athens-listed Metlen Energy & Metals said on Monday that it has entered into an exclusive partnership with KNDS France for the production of the latest generation of 8×8 infantry fighting armored vehicle, the VBCI Philocetes, marking a significant milestone in European defense industrial cooperation.

This is the first time that the French leader in land defense has signed such an ambitious agreement for 8×8 armored vehicles.

The exclusive alliance will involve the transfer of know-how concerning aluminium armor and the local production of the VBCI Mk2 welded structure.

This strategic industrial agreement is designed to meet the Hellenic Army’s operational requirement for a large number of 8×8 infantry fighting vehicles as well as that of other European armies.

By locating key manufacturing and maintenance operations within Greece, the agreement enhances equipment availability.

This dynamic partnership also reflects the beneficial trickle-down effect to the Greek industry and strengthens the Franco-Greek defense relationship, the Metlen statement commented.

Kathimerini