Véhicule de l'Avant Blindé

Renault Trucks Defense

Industry	Defence manufacturing
Predecessor	GIAT (marketing until 2003)
Founded	1976
Headquarters	France
Products	VAB armoured personnel carrier
Parent	Arquus (current name)

The Véhicule de l'Avant Blindé or VAB ("Armoured Vanguard Vehicle") is a French armoured personnel carrier developed and manufactured by Renault Trucks Defense (currently known as Arquus). Introduced into service in 1979, approximately 5,000 units have been built for the French Army, alongside sales to more than 15 international clients.

This adaptable military vehicle exists in over thirty configurations, encompassing mechanized infantry transports, anti-tank missile platforms, self-propelled mortar carriers, electronic warfare units, reconnaissance vehicles, and artillery observation variants.

As of 2019, the VAB continues to serve as the primary APC within the French Army but is gradually being replaced by the six-wheeled VBMR Griffon (deployed from 2019) and the four-wheeled VBMR-L Serval (introduced in 2022).

Design

Conceived as a wheeled troop carrier to complement the tracked AMX-10P, the VAB incorporates an amphibious and NBC-resistant design, capable of water propulsion via its wheels or dual water jets. Its light armour protects occupants from shrapnel and small arms fire, tailored to meet the demands of potential conventional conflicts against Warsaw Pact forces, particularly for river crossings in Eastern France and Germany.

Following a competition between Panhard and Saviem/Renault, Renault's prototype was chosen in May 1974 with an initial procurement of 4,000 units. Production commenced in 1976 at a pace of 30 to 40 vehicles monthly.

Entry to the troop compartment is through an armoured rear double door, housing two benches facing inward that accommodate five soldiers each. The crew occupies the front section with side hatches for ingress; the driver is positioned on the left and the gunner on the right. Armament access and emergency exits are facilitated by roof hatches. The front windows are bullet-resistant and heated, with additional armoured shutters featuring observation slits for enhanced protection. The engine sits behind the driver’s seat, allowing a passageway on the right between crew and passengers.

Weighing approximately 13 tonnes, the VAB is light enough to be airlifted for rapid overseas deployment. Its large wheels enable it to climb slopes up to 60% grade and negotiate road or rail cant angles as steep as 30%.

Starting in 1998, French Army VABs underwent three significant upgrades: automatic transmission (T1), improved braking systems with automatic tire pressure regulation (T2), and enhanced armour protection (T3). These upgraded models are collectively referred to as VAB Valorisé. Since 1990, the VAB NG (new generation) variant has featured reinforced armour and a new powerplant. During the 2000s, Renault upgraded existing VABs by replacing MAN diesel engines with Renault MIDS turbocharged units.

In 2003, marketing responsibilities for the VAB shifted from GIAT to Renault Trucks Défense. At Eurosatory 2010, Renault presented the heavier VAB MkII, offering expanded internal volume and protection meeting Level 4 standards. The MkII was also displayed at BRIDEX 2011.

The VAB MkIII, unveiled at Eurosatory 2012, introduced strengthened defence against improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and anti-vehicle mines up to STANAG Level 4. Its RPG-resistant armour was developed in partnership with Plasan.

Currently available exclusively in a six-wheel drive format, the VAB MkIII is powered either by a Renault MD7 engine producing 340 hp or a Caterpillar C7 engine delivering 370 hp; both versions utilize automatic transmissions.

Armour enhancement

The VAB’s upgrade featuring MEXAS composite armour significantly improved defense against a range of infantry weapons, extending protection up to heavy machine gun fire, generally rounds of 12.7 mm caliber. This enhancement added approximately two tonnes to the vehicle’s weight, resulting in the loss of its amphibious capabilities.

Thanks to the hull’s lightweight amphibious design combined with the armour improvement, the vehicle exhibits robust resistance to mines. Explosions detonated underneath tend to lift the VAB, helping to dissipate the force of blasts. Additionally, the hull’s contour and wheel arrangement work together to deflect shock waves, maintaining structural integrity.

Turret configurations

The VAB equipped with a heavy machine gun mounts an M2HB 12.7mm machine gun on an open turret platform; conversely, the lighter variant carries the AA52 7.5mm machine gun in a similar setup.

The AA-52 is a 7.62mm general-purpose machine gun measuring 1,080 mm in length with a 600 mm barrel and weighing 9.97 kg. It delivers a firing rate of up to 900 rounds per minute, with an effective range reaching 600 meters and a maximum range near 3,200 meters. The weapon utilizes belt feeding and is fitted with telescopic sights plus an infrared scope. It fires 7.5×54mm French or 7.62×51mm NATO cartridges at a muzzle velocity of 830 m/s, typically carrying a basic ammunition load of 900 rounds.

Protection for gunners is limited to an armored frontal panel and hatch doors, providing minimal defense against indirect fire, sudden attacks, or blast effects from explosions and rollovers. By July 2007, all fatalities related to mines on VABs involved gunners, although crew members inside the hull also sustained serious injuries.

Starting in 2007, the Army leadership persistently emphasized the urgent need for remotely controlled 12.7mm turrets as a vital modernization step. Consequently, a program was initiated to retrofit over 500 VABs with remote weapon stations and enhanced command systems under the designation VAB TOP (tourelle TéléOPérée). In May 2008, Renault Trucks Defense secured an eight-year contract valued at €20 million with Kongsberg Gruppen to equip VABs with Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace’s Protector Remote Weapon Station. Deliveries were scheduled between 2009 and 2016.

From early 2009 onwards, roughly 60 VAB-TOP vehicles were deployed in Afghanistan, first engaging in combat during the Battle of Alasay. Field assessments reported a marked decrease in ammunition consumption due to the turret’s computer-assisted precision single-shot firing capability, partially mitigating concerns over external reloading needs.

Successor vehicle

Plans are underway to replace the VAB around 2020 with a diesel-electric model from the EBM10-EBM20 program anticipated for selection. The Armoured Multirole Carrier stands out as a prominent contender.

Operational record

VABs have seen service in virtually all French infantry deployment zones, including Kuwait, Côte d'Ivoire, Yugoslavia, and Chad. They are also utilized by French ISAF troops in Afghanistan. During the Uzbin valley ambush, one VAB was struck by a rocket propelled grenade but sustained no casualties. Tragically, a soldier operating its rooftop machine gun was later killed when the road beneath collapsed causing the vehicle to overturn. In March 2009, a VAB driver lost his life following a rocket attack during the battle of Alasay.

Africa

Vehicles of the Royal Moroccan Army (FAR) have engaged extensively in combat operations against Polisario insurgents throughout the Western Sahara conflict.

Asia

During the May 1998 unrest in Jakarta, VABs from the Indonesian Army were actively deployed, later participating in the 2003–2004 Indonesian offensive in Aceh. The Garuda Contingent also utilized VABs as part of their UNIFIL deployment in Lebanon beginning in 2007.

Middle East

Between 1981 and 1984, the Lebanese Army received 95 VABs, which played a significant role during the Lebanese Civil War. Several units were operated by the Shia Amal Movement militia after the defection of the predominantly Shia 6th Infantry Brigade in 1984. Following the conflict, additional VABs were supplied to Lebanon’s Internal Security Forces (ISF) to support escort and internal security missions.

Ukraine

By March 2025, visual confirmations indicated that at least 30 VABs had been destroyed and another 13 were either damaged or abandoned amid the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Variants

The VAB is offered in both 4×4 and 6×6 wheel configurations, with the latter generally costing approximately 10% more. While the French armed forces exclusively operate the 4×4 models, exported versions predominantly feature the 6×6 layout.

Prominent VAB variants include:

• VAB MK 3: A 6x6 armored personnel carrier variant providing improved mobility, enhanced protection, and increased payload capacity.
• VAB VTT (Véhicule Transport de Troupe): A 4x4 APC designed for a crew of two plus ten passengers, equipped with a standard pintle mount for machine guns.
  • VAB TOP: A VTT variant outfitted with a Kongsberg Protector (RWS) system mounting a 12.7mm machine gun and additional ceramic armor plating.
  • VAB AZURE: Designed for urban combat, this model features a dozer blade and panoramic periscopes for enhanced situational awareness.
  • VAB ELI: A light recovery vehicle variant.
  • VAB-VCAC MILAN: An anti-tank version fitted with mounts for MILAN missile systems.
  • VAB AT4CS: Anti-tank teams utilize this variant equipped with AT4CS rocket launchers.
  • VAB Eryx: Anti-tank teams armed with Eryx missile systems operate this model.
• VAB RATAC: Artillery target acquisition vehicle featuring DR-PC 1a RATAC Doppler radar with a range of up to 20 km.
• VAB RASIT: Reconnaissance model carrying DR-PT 2a RASIT ground surveillance radar.
• VAB PC (Poste de Commandement): Command vehicle configured for six personnel, equipped with advanced communication suites.
  • VAB SIR: Integrated with digital regimental C4ISTAR systems.
• VAB Bromure: Electronic warfare platform variant.
• VAB Echelon: Maintenance vehicle fitted with hydraulic jib crane and winches.
• VAB Génie: Engineering version capable of clearing obstacles or towing mine-clearing trailers.
• VAB SAN (sanitaire): Armored ambulance accommodating five stretchers or ten seated occupants.
• VAB Reco: Nuclear, biological, chemical reconnaissance vehicle.
• VAB ATLAS: Artillery fire command and control system succeeding the VAB ATILA model.
• VAB SGEA: Electronic warfare variant specialized for signal intelligence operations.
• VAB Rapsodie: Reconnaissance vehicle equipped with radar systems.
• VBR (Véhicule Blindé de Reconnaissance): Used by Génie de l'Air, armed with Capre turret mounting a 20 mm F2 cannon.

• VAB Mephisto (also known as VAB HOT): Anti-tank platform carrying four ready-to-fire Euromissile HOT missiles plus eight additional rounds; employs wire-guided SACLOS HOT-3 missile technology.
• VCI T.20/13 (Véhicule de Combat de l'Infanterie): Infantry fighting vehicle equipped with a turret-mounted 20 mm cannon derived from refurbished AMX-VCIs for fire support and counter-sniper roles.

• VIB (Véhicule d'Intervention sur Base): Infantry fighting vehicle fitted with a Toucan remotely operated turret mounting a 20 mm cannon and AA52 machine gun; utilized by French Air Force units for airfield defense.
• VIT (Véhicule d'Implantation Topographique): Vehicle designed for artillery topographic teams.

• VOA (Véhicule d'Observation d'Artillerie): Artillery observation vehicle featuring turret-mounted day/night optics and laser rangefinder; typically paired with TR F1 towed 155 mm howitzer. The modernized iteration is known as the VAB OBS.
• VTM 120 (Véhicule Tracteur de Mortier): Mortar towing vehicle capable of transporting up to 70 rounds for the Thomson-Brandt MO-120 mortar system.
• VAB 2R2M — Self-propelled carrier mounting a 120 mm mortar system.
• VBC-90: Armored car armed with a 90 mm turret gun; formerly operated by Mobile Gendarmerie until its retirement in 2004.
• VAB Ultima – Enhanced protection variant against IEDs and mines featuring blast-resistant seating, Sagem SITEL communication equipment, FELIN battery chargers, and Protector RCWS for mounting machine guns or automatic grenade launchers.
• VAB SAN CIED – Ambulance version upgraded specifically for counter-IED operations within Sahel deployments.

Exported configurations include:

• VAB 4x4 VCI T.20 – Infantry combat vehicle featuring a one-man T.20 turret; currently in service with Cyprus.
• VAB 6x6 ECH – Maintenance model equipped with crane apparatus.
• VAB 6x6 VCI Toucan – Infantry combat vehicle similar to VCI T.20/13 but built on a VAB 6x6 chassis platform.
• VAB 6x6 VPM 81 – Mortar carrier fitted with an externally mounted roof-fired 81 mm mortar; deployed by Oman’s armed forces.
• VAB 6x6 VDAA TA20 – Low-altitude air defense vehicle armed with twin 20 mm cannons; operational in Oman, Morocco, and Central African Republic forces.
• VCAC 6x6 UTM800 – Anti-tank platform carrying Euromissile UTM800 turret housing four ready HOT missiles plus sixteen reserves; utilized by Qatar and Cyprus militaries.
• VBMO (Maintien de l'Ordre) – Police riot control variant fitted with dozer blade and optional TOI turret; fielded in Oman, Morocco, and Abu Dhabi.
• VDAA (Anti-Aircraft) – Turreted anti-aircraft version equipped with twin 20 mm cannons; nine units acquired by Oman National Guard.
• VDAA SANTAL – Air defense system incorporating six Mistral short-range SAMs coupled with Rodeo-2 radar.

The French Gendarmerie procured approximately twenty up-armored VABs intended for deployment in Afghanistan; these vehicles have since been reassigned to locations such as Versailles-Satory or New Caledonia as of 2018.

Foreign-produced variants:

• MACK Lakota: A Mark III derivative manufactured primarily by Mack Defense through JWF Defense Systems in the United States, available in both 6x6 and 8x8 configurations. Initially unveiled at AUSA exhibitions in 2014, it was sold to an undisclosed Middle Eastern client in 2016. The hull assembly occurs within the U.S., and as of May 2024, these APCs have been delivered to Saudi Arabia and Tunisia.

Operators

By 2019, the VAB had been delivered to more than 40 nations worldwide.

Current operators

• :
  • French Army: Approximately 3,900 VABs across 35 different variants
  • French Air Force: Utilizes the VIB (véhicule blindé d'intervention)
• : Acquired 8 out of 15 VAB units in March 2023.
• : Scheduled for retirement following the procurement of Pindad Anoas vehicles.
• : Operates 10 units
• : Holds 25 units; France provided around 40 VABs in 2008
• : Maintains 147 units
• : Owns 5 units
• : Equipped with 15 vehicles adapted for CBRN roles
• : Uses 13 units
• : Lebanese Armed Forces and Internal Security Forces both operate VABs
• : Possesses a fleet of 400 vehicles
• : Declared plans in 2016 to acquire 100 VAB Mk 3s initially intended for Lebanon; by May 2024, these APCs were manufactured by MACK Defense.
• : As of May 2024, MACK Defense reported production of VAB Mk 3 APCs.
• : In June 2022, the French Ministry of Armed Forces confirmed delivery of substantial numbers of armed VABs as military assistance amid the Russian invasion; by February 2024, France had supplied roughly 250 units.

Former operators

• Amal Movement militia (1984–1990)
• : Georgian security forces deployed at Camp Warehouse under ISAF used French Army-loaned VABs in Kabul from 2009 to 2011.

Potential operators

• : Reports from November 2023 indicate Armenia is procuring 50 VAB Mk 3s along with GM200 radars and Bastion armored vehicles.