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Leonardo, through the CIO Consortium (IDV – OTO Melara), has signed an initial serial production contract with the Brazilian Army within the framework of Programa Estratégico Forças Blindadas, for the Viatura Blindadas de Combate de Cavalaria Média Sobre Rodas (VBC Cav - MSR 8x8) project. The contract provides for the delivery of seven Centauro II 8x8 wheeled vehicles, equipped with a 120 mm main gun, and represents the first batch of serial production under an overall program for 98 vehicles, to be delivered in annual tranches.
The agreement was signed following the successful completion of operational testing and the receipt of the two vehicles comprising the initial evaluation batch.
The Centauro II represents the most advanced evolution of this type of wheeled armored vehicle, designed to meet the demands of modern operational scenarios. Fully digitized and interoperable, it is engineered to operate ef fectively across a wide spectrum of missions - ranging from national security to peacekeeping and support operations - up to the most complex deployments in different operational theaters.
Equipped with the HITFACT MkII turret, a modern 720 HP propulsion system, and an H-drive transmission, this vehicle combines the firepower of a modern main battle tank with the high strategic mobility of a wheeled platform.
Its performance is distinguished by its observation capabilities, firing precision, communication quality, ergonomics, and a high level of crew protection.
To date, the Centauro II remains the only vehicle in service capable of integrating a 120mm armament on a wheeled platform.
Already adopted by the Italian Army - which has placed orders for 150 units - the Centauro II is establishing itself as a global benchmark in the field of wheeled, large-caliber, anti-tank armored vehicles.
About Leonardo
Leonardo (leonardo.com) is an international industrial group that develops multi-domain technological capabilities for global security. A key player in the major strategic programmes in Aerospace, Defence and Security, it employs over 62,000 people worldwide and operates in the Electronics, Helicopters, Aircraft, Cyber & Security and Space sectors. The company has a significant industrial presence in Italy, the United Kingdom, Poland and the United States, and is active in 150 countries also through subsidiaries, joint ventures and investees. Leonardo is a technological and industrial partner to Governments, Defence Administrations, Institutions and businesses. Listed on the Milan Stock Exchange (LDO), in 2025 Leonardo recorded new orders of €23.8 billion, an order backlog of €46.6 billion and consolidated revenues of €19.5 billion. Included in the MIB ESG Index, the company has also been part of the Dow Jones Sustainability Indices (DJSI) since 2010.
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