France invests in vehicles for paratroopers
The Fardier SOV can tow a 120 mm mortar. (Photo: Jean-Marc Tanguy)
Two new wheeled vehicles are being delivered to the French Army’s 11th Parachute Brigade (BP) to improve its mobility capabilities.
One platform is the Fardier SOV light vehicle developed by Unac and the other is the Serval VBMR-L 4x4 APC that weighs less than the Griffon 6x6 vehicle already in service with French airborne forces.
The 11th BP and French SOF regularly carry out operational jumps (mainly in Africa) and it is likely their frequency will increase now that the A400M is operational for simultaneous jumps out of two doors.
In recent months, the 11th BP has made jumps in
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Land Warfare
-
British Army's open plan draws diverse offerings for Land Rover replacement
The UK Ministry of Defence has avoided being prescriptive in its search to replace the British Army’s Land Rover, meaning vehicle types being offered range from Land Rover Defender Wolf II and Humvee to the hybrid series Fering Pioneer. What does this mean for the procurement process?
-
DVD 2026: British Army’s Ajax back in the hands of users as part of a gradual return
The introduction of Ajax vehicles into British Army service was stopped after operator health issues were reported during an exercise, but manufacturer General Dynamics Land Systems UK believes work over the past 10 months has dealt with the problems.
-
Europe commits to long-range fires but countries move in different directions
Sweden, Croatia and France are pursuing different rocket artillery solutions as European armies seek greater reach, survivability and industrial resilience.