Griffon

The Véhicule Blindé Multi-Rôle (VBMR) Griffon emerged from the French Army's requirement to replace the aging Véhicule de l'Avant Blindé (VAB), which had been in service since the late 1970s. Officially launched in 2014 as a cornerstone of the SCORPION modernization programme, the vehicle was developed by a consortium of KNDS France, Arquus, and Thales. It was designed to provide a highly versatile, networked platform to facilitate collaborative combat capabilities for modern combined arms battle groups, officially entering service in 2019.

The Griffon is a six-wheel multi-purpose platform utilizing a semi-modular design that ensures high component commonality across its various versions. It features a militarized turbodiesel powertrain and four-wheel steering for maneuverability across varied terrain. Protection is a priority, with armor designed to withstand armor-piercing ammunition, artillery splinters, and explosive blasts, further enhanced by optional modular armor kits and an overpressure system for CBRN threats. Central to its capability is an advanced vetronics architecture that integrates the SICS combat information system and CONTACT software-defined radios, allowing for real-time tactical data exchange between units. Situational awareness is provided by 360-degree optronics, acoustic gunshot detection, and laser warning systems, while the GALIX suite provides automated self-protection via multispectral smoke grenades. Standard variants are equipped with a Hornet remotely operated weapon station that can be fitted with machine guns or automatic grenade launchers.

Currently in service with the French Army, the Griffon is utilized in a wide range of roles including troop transport, command post, and medical evacuation. Specialized variants also support artillery observation and mobile mortar operations, such as the MEPAC version. The vehicle operates within a digitalized ecosystem, enabling "infovalorized" combat where target data and tactical information are shared instantly between different platforms. The Griffon has also been adopted by Belgium under the CaMo programme and by Luxembourg to modernize their respective land forces, with international deliveries and service entry scheduled to continue through the late 2020s.

🇧🇪 Belgium • 🇫🇷 France • 🇱🇺 Luxembourg