Arquus Unveils New VBL Mk3 Light Armored Vehicle at IDEX

The VBL (Véhicule Blindé Léger) Mk3 is the latest and most advanced version of the Panhard VBL, which is already in service with several armies in the Gulf and around the world By DA Staff / 23 Feb 2023

Discover Leading Defense Technology Solutions

Discover cutting-edge solutions from leading global suppliers
SUPPLIER SPOTLIGHT
Arquus VBL Mk3
Follow DA

Arquus presented the Mk3 version of its Véhicule Blindé Léger (VBL) 4×4 light armored reconnaissance vehicle at IDEX 2023, being held in Abu Dhabi, 20-24 February.

The VBL Mk3 is the latest and most advanced version of the Panhard VBL, which is already in service with several armies in the Gulf and around the world.

As a fully new development, the VBL Mk3 benefits from several upgrades compared with the first VBL.

Equipped with a 130hp modern, diesel engine and a new automatic gearbox, the new VBL Mk3 benefits from excellent mobility which allows speed and acceleration as well as added comfort for the pilot. 

It features a new Brake Assist system and improved front and rear suspension systems, increasing the payload and improving vehicle handling.

A new Centralized Tyre Inflation System (CTIS) allows for a better adaptation to the terrain conditions and improves mobility on soft ground, such as sand. A new dashboard enables better management of the vehicle and its tactical situation.

The company VBL Mk3 is designed for scouting and reconnaissance, as well as intelligence gathering missions. It can also serve as a wingman for a tank or be configured as an anti-tank vehicle with an ATGM team aboard.

Anti-Tank Configuration for High-Intensity Missions

For IDEX 2023, the VBL Mk3 is fitted with a Hornet RCWS with an AKERON anti-tank missile launcher, developed with missile manufacturer MBDA specifically for anti-tank combat.

Arquus New VBL Mk3


An anti-tank combat capability is now integrated in the Hornet RCWS, which it offers on top of its native qualities. The Akeron missile is integrated on the side of the RCWS, which preserves the compact size of the Hornet and contributes to its stealth. It is also a welcome addition for increased anti-tank capabilities to engage a target of opportunity close to the front lines or defend itself against an unplanned heavier threat such as a tank or an IFV.

With its high mobility and compact silhouette, the VBL Mk3 will be able to scout while in movement and to shoot from inside the vehicle with the Hornet AKERON or from outside the vehicle with an AKERON firing station.

Several other configurations can be derived from the VBL Mk3’s proven concept, depending on the mission at hand.

GIRETTE_Arquus


Find manufacturers and suppliers of light armored vehicles, light tactical vehicles and combat vehicles for military, defense and security operations>>

Posted by DA Staff Connect & Contact

Latest Articles

New 3D Radar System Launched with AI-Powered Drone Detection

Terma has introduced SCANTER Sphera, a compact 3D radar system with AI-driven drone detection and full 360° situational awareness

May 23, 2025
Triad RF Systems Certified to Global Quality Standard ISO 9001:2015

Triad RF Systems has achieved ISO 9001:2015 certification, reinforcing its commitment to quality, continuous improvement, and delivering reliable RF solutions worldwide

May 23, 2025
LiDAR’s Evolving Role in Security & Surveillance

Inertial Labs outlines how LiDAR, including UAV-mounted systems like RESEPI GEN-II, enhances perimeter security through precise mapping, environmental awareness, and real-time monitoring

May 23, 2025
Gyro Stabilization Solutions for Tactical Military Systems

Defense Advancement showcases high-precision gyro stabilization mounts for mission-critical military and defense applications

May 23, 2025
AI-Powered Mission Planning & Target Recognition Software Selected for Long-Range Loitering Munitions

Teledyne FLIR OEM's Prism Supervisor and Prism SKR software is being integrated into Dragoon Technology's UAS under the DIU's Project Artemis

May 22, 2025
GA-ASI Begins Ground Testing of Uncrewed Collaborative Combat Aircraft

GA-ASI has begun ground testing of its YFQ-42A uncrewed jet for the U.S. Air Force’s CCA program, targeting a summer 2025 first flight as part of next-generation combat aviation efforts

May 22, 2025

Featured Content

New Hybrid Solution for Long-Term GNSS-Denied Navigation

Advanced Navigation has demonstrated a major breakthrough with a Hybrid Navigation System designed for GPS-denied environments, combining a strategic-grade FOG INS with a laser velocity sensor

May 21, 2025
New Line of Kinetic-Capable Unmanned Surface Vessels Introduced

Red Cat Holdings enters the maritime autonomy market with a new line of combat-proven USVs, expanding its multi-domain unmanned systems for naval operations

May 20, 2025
Next-Gen Group 2 UAS Enters Production with Extended Endurance & Upgrades

Aurora Flight Sciences upgrades the SKIRON-X Group 2 UAS with greater versatility and tactical mission endurance, as well as announcing the hydrogen-powered SKIRON-XLE variant

May 13, 2025
Advancing Defense Capability Through Strategic Collaboration Defense Advancement works with major OEMs to foster collaboration and increase engagement with SMEs, to accelerate innovation and drive defense capabilities forward.