Difference between revisions of "VBCI-2 (MCT30)"

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== Description ==
 
== Description ==
 
<!-- ''In the description, the first part should be about the history of the creation and combat usage of the vehicle, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the ground vehicle in the game. Insert a screenshot of the vehicle, so that if the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle the article is talking about.'' -->
 
<!-- ''In the description, the first part should be about the history of the creation and combat usage of the vehicle, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the ground vehicle in the game. Insert a screenshot of the vehicle, so that if the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle the article is talking about.'' -->
−
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a premium rank {{Specs|rank}} French light tank {{Battle-rating}}. It is a cutting-edge infantry fighting vehicle that represents a significant evolution in armored warfare. Developed by the French company Nexter, the VBCI-2 was created as an export version, building upon the foundation of its predecessor, the original VBCI, which was unveiled in 2008. The VBCI-2 incorporates a range of advanced technologies, including enhanced protection systems, and improved mobility. Its most distinctive feature is the integration of the formidable MCT30 turret, armed with a 30mm autocannon and a suite of secondary weapons, making it highly capable in engaging both ground and aerial targets. The VBCI-2's adoption of advanced communication and sensor systems has significantly improved situational awareness and battlefield coordination, while its amphibious capabilities allow it to operate effectively across diverse terrains. With its combination of firepower, protection, and versatility.
+
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a cutting-edge infantry fighting vehicle that represents a significant evolution in armoured warfare. Developed by the French company Nexter, the VBCI-2 was created as an export version of its predecessor, the original VBCI, which was unveiled in 2008. The VBCI-2 incorporates a range of advanced technologies, including enhanced protection systems, and improved mobility. Its most distinctive feature is the integration of the formidable MCT30 turret, armed with a 30 mm autocannon and a suite of secondary weapons, making it highly capable in engaging both ground and aerial targets. The VBCI-2's adoption of advanced communication and sensor systems has significantly improved situational awareness and battlefield coordination.
  
−
It was introduced in [[Update "La Royale"]]. The VBCI-2 (MCT30) boasts a formidable array of combat capabilities that place it at the forefront of modern armored vehicles. Armed with the powerful MCT30 turret, which houses a 30mm autocannon and supplementary armaments, the VBCI-2 possesses exceptional anti-aircraft and anti-vehicle capabilities. This enables it to engage a wide spectrum of threats with precision and versatility. The integration of advanced targeting systems, fire control technology, and stabilization mechanisms enhances its accuracy while on the move or stationary, ensuring effective engagement in dynamic combat scenarios. Furthermore, its enhanced protection systems offer substantial defense against various types of low to medium caliber weaponry. The VBCI-2's advanced sensor suite, including LWR and thermal imaging, augments situational awareness, granting its crew the ability to detect and engage targets across different terrains and weather conditions. These combat capabilities culminate in a platform that excels in both offensive and defensive operations, making the VBCI-2 a pivotal asset in modern mechanized warfare.
+
It was introduced in [[Update "La Royale"]]. The VBCI-2 (MCT30) boasts a formidable array of combat capabilities that place it at the forefront of modern armoured vehicles. Armed with the powerful MCT30 turret, which houses a 30 mm autocannon and supplementary armaments, the VBCI-2 possesses exceptional anti-aircraft and anti-vehicle capabilities. This enables it to engage a wide spectrum of threats with precision and versatility. The integration of advanced targeting systems, fire control technology, and stabilization mechanisms enhances its accuracy while on the move or stationary, ensuring effective engagement in dynamic combat scenarios. Furthermore, its enhanced protection systems offer substantial defense against various types of low to medium calibre weaponry. The VBCI-2's advanced sensor suite, including LWS and thermal imaging, augments situational awareness, granting its crew the ability to detect and engage targets across different terrains and weather conditions. These combat capabilities culminate in a platform that excels in both offensive and defensive operations, making the VBCI-2 a pivotal asset in modern mechanized warfare.
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
Line 14: Line 14:
 
{{Specs-Tank-Armour}}
 
{{Specs-Tank-Armour}}
 
<!-- ''Describe armour protection. Note the most well protected and key weak areas. Appreciate the layout of modules as well as the number and location of crew members. Is the level of armour protection sufficient, is the placement of modules helpful for survival in combat? If necessary use a visual template to indicate the most secure and weak zones of the armour.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe armour protection. Note the most well protected and key weak areas. Appreciate the layout of modules as well as the number and location of crew members. Is the level of armour protection sufficient, is the placement of modules helpful for survival in combat? If necessary use a visual template to indicate the most secure and weak zones of the armour.'' -->
−
While the VBCI-2 (MCT30) exhibits a range of advanced features, a nuanced approach characterizes its survivability. The vehicle's armor, while providing protection against various threats, might be considered less robust when confronted with highly potent anti-tank weaponry. This consideration underscores the VBCI-2's reliance on agility and mobility as key elements of its survival strategy. Additionally, the vehicle's unmanned turret, a notable feature, contributes to its survivability by reducing crew exposure to enemy fire. By leveraging its well-engineered mobility and the unmanned turret, the VBCI-2 can minimize its exposure to potential threats and rapidly change positions on the battlefield. Its ability to traverse diverse terrains efficiently enables it to exploit cover, evade incoming fire, and seek advantageous firing positions. This dynamic approach to survivability, blending mobility with tactical awareness and the advantages of an unmanned turret, allows the VBCI-2 to excel in hit-and-run tactics and swift maneuvers, proving that a balance between armor, mobility, and advanced technology is pivotal in combat.
+
While the VBCI-2 (MCT30) exhibits a range of advanced features, a nuanced approach characterizes its survivability. The vehicle's armour, while providing protection against various threats, might be considered less robust when confronted with highly potent anti-tank weaponry. This consideration underscores the VBCI-2's reliance on agility and mobility as key elements of its survival strategy. Additionally, the vehicle's unmanned turret, a notable feature, contributes to its survivability by reducing crew exposure to enemy fire. By leveraging its well-engineered mobility and the unmanned turret, the VBCI-2 can minimize its exposure to potential threats and rapidly change positions on the battlefield. Its ability to traverse diverse terrains efficiently enables it to exploit cover, evade incoming fire, and seek advantageous firing positions. This dynamic approach to survivability, blending mobility with tactical awareness and the advantages of an unmanned turret, allows the VBCI-2 to excel in hit-and-run tactics and swift manoeuvres, proving that a balance between armour, mobility, and advanced technology is pivotal in combat.
  
 
'''Armour type:'''
 
'''Armour type:'''
Line 61: Line 61:
 
|-
 
|-
 
! ''Arcade''
 
! ''Arcade''
−
| rowspan="2" | 450 (75) || rowspan="2" | 200 || rowspan="2" | -10°/+45° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | Two-plane || 57.1 || 79.1 || 96.0 || 106.2 || 113.0 || rowspan="2" | 13.00 || rowspan="2" | 11.50 || rowspan="2" | 10.60 || rowspan="2" | 10.00
+
| rowspan="2" | 450 (75) || rowspan="2" | 200 || rowspan="2" | -10°/+40° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | Two-plane || 57.1 || 79.1 || 96.0 || 106.2 || 113.0 || rowspan="2" | 13.00 || rowspan="2" | 11.50 || rowspan="2" | 10.60 || rowspan="2" | 10.00
 
|-
 
|-
 
! ''Realistic''
 
! ''Realistic''
Line 111: Line 111:
 
== Usage in battles ==
 
== Usage in battles ==
 
<!-- ''Describe the tactics of playing in the vehicle, the features of using vehicles in the team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view but instead give the reader food for thought. Describe the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe the tactics of playing in the vehicle, the features of using vehicles in the team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view but instead give the reader food for thought. Describe the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).'' -->
−
The VBCI-2 (MCT30) stands as a versatile and potent asset, with its capabilities extending beyond traditional ground warfare. In armored combat, the VBCI-2 excels in a range of roles, including reconnaissance, and offensive operations. Armed with the MCT30 unmanned turret, equipped with a 30mm autocannon and supplementary weapons, it possesses exceptional anti-vehicle capabilities, effectively engaging and neutralizing threats both on open terrain and in urban environments. When facing armored targets, the utilization of Mk258 Armor-Piercing Fin-Stabilized Discarding Sabot (APFSDS) rounds enhances its anti-armor capabilities, penetrating protected adversaries. However, it's important to note that the APFSDS rounds may prove lacklustre when confronting Main Battle Tanks (MBTs) frontally due to their formidable armor. Nevertheless, its ability to target the sides and rear of MBTs remains formidable, potentially resulting in their destruction.
+
The VBCI-2 (MCT30) stands as a versatile and potent asset, with its capabilities extending beyond traditional ground warfare. In armoured combat, the VBCI-2 excels in a range of roles, including reconnaissance, and offensive operations. Armed with the MCT30 unmanned turret, equipped with a 30 mm autocannon and supplementary weapons, it possesses exceptional anti-vehicle capabilities, effectively engaging and neutralizing threats both on open terrain and in urban environments. When facing armoured targets, the utilization of MK258 APFSDS rounds enhances its anti-armour capabilities, penetrating protected adversaries. However, it's important to note that the APFSDS rounds may prove lacklustre when confronting Main Battle Tanks (MBTs) frontally due to their formidable armour. Nevertheless, its ability to target the sides and rear of MBTs remains formidable, potentially resulting in their destruction.
  
−
Notably, the VBCI-2's combat capabilities extend into anti-aircraft warfare. The advanced sensor suite, including Infrared Search and Track (IRST) technology and thermal imaging, enables the vehicle to detect and track aerial threats, while its rapid-firing autocannon can engage low-flying aircraft and drones. For engaging aircraft, the use of Mk266 High Explosive Incendiary-Tracer (HEI-T) rounds provides effective anti-aircraft firepower, deterring and countering airborne threats with precision.
+
Notably, the VBCI-2's combat capabilities extend into anti-aircraft warfare. The advanced sensor suite, including Infrared Search and Track (IRST) technology and thermal imaging, enables the vehicle to detect and track aerial threats, while its rapid-firing autocannon can engage low-flying aircraft and drones. For engaging aircraft, the use of MK266 HEI-T rounds provides effective anti-aircraft firepower, deterring and countering airborne threats with precision.
  
−
Furthermore, the VBCI-2 serves a significant role in mechanized combat as a support vehicle. Its mobility allows it to rapidly maneuver across varied landscapes, providing repair assistance to other armored units. The vehicle's ability to swiftly move through flanks, while offering protective cover and fire support, enhances the cohesion and effectiveness of combined arms operations.
+
Furthermore, the VBCI-2 serves a significant role in mechanized combat as a support vehicle. Its mobility allows it to rapidly manoeuvre across varied landscapes, providing repair assistance to other armoured units. The vehicle's ability to swiftly move through flanks, while offering protective cover and fire support, enhances the cohesion and effectiveness of combined arms operations.
  
−
In summary, the VBCI-2's combat uses in armored scenarios are manifold. It excels in reconnaissance, and offensive roles, owing to its potent weaponry and agile mobility. Its anti-aircraft capabilities offer air defense augmentation, bolstering the protection of mechanized units. Additionally, the VBCI-2's role as a support vehicle enhances the overall effectiveness of mechanized combat operations by providing rapid response, support, and auxiliary functions. Through its adaptability, firepower, and versatility, the VBCI-2 remains a cornerstone of French top-tier armored forces, capable of fulfilling diverse combat roles in the evolving landscape of warfare.
+
In summary, the VBCI-2's combat uses in armoured scenarios are manifold. It excels in reconnaissance, and offensive roles, owing to its potent weaponry and agile mobility. Its anti-aircraft capabilities offer air defense augmentation, bolstering the protection of mechanized units. Additionally, the VBCI-2's role as a support vehicle enhances the overall effectiveness of mechanized combat operations by providing rapid response, support, and auxiliary functions. Through its adaptability, firepower, and versatility, the VBCI-2 remains a cornerstone of French top-tier armoured forces, capable of fulfilling diverse combat roles in the evolving landscape of warfare.
  
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
=== Pros and cons ===
Line 141: Line 141:
 
== History ==
 
== History ==
 
<!-- ''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the vehicle in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <code><nowiki><references /></nowiki></code>. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the vehicle in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <code><nowiki><references /></nowiki></code>. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).'' -->
−
''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the vehicle in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <code><nowiki><references /></nowiki></code>. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).''
+
==== Development ====
 +
In the early 1990s, the French government started the VBM (Véhicule Blindé Modulaire — Modular Armoured Vehicle) as a replacement for its older IFVs. Soon the project caught the attention of Germany and the United Kingdom, nations that were also operating aging IFVs like the German Marder. The first prototype was unveiled in 1996 and was called X8A. However the joint program was abandoned and France continued the project on their own with 700 units ordered in 2000.
 +
 
 +
The program quickly advanced, with testings between 2003 and 2004 in agility, mobility and electronics. 5 prototypes were tested under real conditions in 2004 and 2005, the tests resulted in major modifications to the unmanned DRAGAR turret, thus the project was delayed while this issue was fixed. The VBCI was also considered as an APC and a mortar carrier, and was also tested by the British for the FRES program.
 +
 
 +
==== Service ====
 +
The first batch finished deliveries in 2010, while the second one was delivered in 2012. The IFV has seen some improvements as well as action in Africa, in peacekeeping missions by France in some of their old colonies. In 2014 the first modification pack was unveiled, a 32 ton modification, with more internal volume, redistributed crew and electronics, improved steering and slightly better protection. The French Armed Forces announced their intentions to proccure this vehicle starting in 2015, to this day new units are being delivered or upgraded.
 +
 
 +
==== Variants and Export ====
 +
The VBCI 2 was the improved variant of the VBCI, with a more powerful diesel engine capable of 600hp, improved crew comfort and new vision cameras. This version was developed mainly for export, the weight was increased to 32 tons and a prototype with a two man turret with a 40mm cannon was tested
 +
 
 +
The United Kingdom and Qatar showed interest in the VBCI. The UK considered the VBCI for its MIV program, that was meant to replace the aging Warrior IFV, but the Boxer was selected over the VBCI in 2019. Meanwhile, Qatar, who is an important customer of French weapon systems, made public its intentions to obtain 490 Nexter VBCI vehicles. However the lack of unmanned turrets on the market delayed further negotiations. In 2018 however, the turrets were provided by Kongsberg, as well as remote weapon stations in case that the negotiations were succesful.
  
 
== Media ==
 
== Media ==

Latest revision as of 15:18, 12 December 2023

Rank VII | Premium | Golden Eagles
Challenger DS Pack
VBCI-2 (MCT30)
fr_vbci2_mct30.png
GarageImage VBCI-2 (MCT30).jpg
VBCI-2 (MCT30)
France flag.png France
VI Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
9.7 9.7 9.7
Class:
PREMIUM
Purchase:8 910 Specs-Card-Eagle.png
Show in game

Description

The VBCI-2 (MCT30) is a cutting-edge infantry fighting vehicle that represents a significant evolution in armoured warfare. Developed by the French company Nexter, the VBCI-2 was created as an export version of its predecessor, the original VBCI, which was unveiled in 2008. The VBCI-2 incorporates a range of advanced technologies, including enhanced protection systems, and improved mobility. Its most distinctive feature is the integration of the formidable MCT30 turret, armed with a 30 mm autocannon and a suite of secondary weapons, making it highly capable in engaging both ground and aerial targets. The VBCI-2's adoption of advanced communication and sensor systems has significantly improved situational awareness and battlefield coordination.

It was introduced in Update "La Royale". The VBCI-2 (MCT30) boasts a formidable array of combat capabilities that place it at the forefront of modern armoured vehicles. Armed with the powerful MCT30 turret, which houses a 30 mm autocannon and supplementary armaments, the VBCI-2 possesses exceptional anti-aircraft and anti-vehicle capabilities. This enables it to engage a wide spectrum of threats with precision and versatility. The integration of advanced targeting systems, fire control technology, and stabilization mechanisms enhances its accuracy while on the move or stationary, ensuring effective engagement in dynamic combat scenarios. Furthermore, its enhanced protection systems offer substantial defense against various types of low to medium calibre weaponry. The VBCI-2's advanced sensor suite, including LWS and thermal imaging, augments situational awareness, granting its crew the ability to detect and engage targets across different terrains and weather conditions. These combat capabilities culminate in a platform that excels in both offensive and defensive operations, making the VBCI-2 a pivotal asset in modern mechanized warfare.

General info

Survivability and armour

Smoke grenades
Creation of a smoke screen in front of the vehicle
LWS
Notifies about the vehicle's exposure to laser emissions
Armourfront / side / back
Hull35 / 35 / 35
Turret30 / 30 / 30
Crew3 people
Visibility150 %

While the VBCI-2 (MCT30) exhibits a range of advanced features, a nuanced approach characterizes its survivability. The vehicle's armour, while providing protection against various threats, might be considered less robust when confronted with highly potent anti-tank weaponry. This consideration underscores the VBCI-2's reliance on agility and mobility as key elements of its survival strategy. Additionally, the vehicle's unmanned turret, a notable feature, contributes to its survivability by reducing crew exposure to enemy fire. By leveraging its well-engineered mobility and the unmanned turret, the VBCI-2 can minimize its exposure to potential threats and rapidly change positions on the battlefield. Its ability to traverse diverse terrains efficiently enables it to exploit cover, evade incoming fire, and seek advantageous firing positions. This dynamic approach to survivability, blending mobility with tactical awareness and the advantages of an unmanned turret, allows the VBCI-2 to excel in hit-and-run tactics and swift manoeuvres, proving that a balance between armour, mobility, and advanced technology is pivotal in combat.

Armour type:

  • Rolled homogeneous armour (hull, turret)
  • Aluminum alloy AMS 4050 A (hull roof, suspension)
Armour Front (Slope angle) Sides Rear Roof
Hull 12 mm Upper
12 mm Lower 		12 mm Top
12 mm Bottom 		12 mm 35 mm
Turret 30 + 10 mm Turret front
30 mm Gun mantlet 		30 + 10 mm 30 + 10 mm 30 + 10 mm
Cupola 30 + 10 mm 10 mm 30 + 10 mm 30 + 10 mm

Notes:

  • Wheels are 10 mm thick

Mobility

Amphibious
The design allows you to swim and control movement in the water
Speedforward / back
AB112 / 41 km/h
RB and SB101 / 37 km/h
Number of gears10 forward
4 back
Weight32.0 t
Engine power
AB1 145 hp
RB and SB600 hp
Power-to-weight ratio
AB35.8 hp/t
RB and SB18.8 hp/t
Game Mode Max Speed (km/h) Weight (tons) Engine power (horsepower) Power-to-weight ratio (hp/ton)
Forward Reverse Stock Upgraded Stock Upgraded
Arcade 112 41 32 930 1,145 29.06 35.78
Realistic 101 37 531 600 16.59 18.75

Modifications and economy

Repair cost
AB2 816 Sl icon.png
RB2 783 Sl icon.png
SB3 409 Sl icon.png
Crew training10 000 Sl icon.png
Experts850 000 Sl icon.png
Aces2 100 Ge icon.png
Research Aces1 900 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
Talisman.png 2 × 130 / 160 / 210 % Sl icon.png
Talisman.png 2 × 220 / 220 / 220 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Mobility Protection Firepower
Mods new wheels.png
Tires
Mods new car suspension.png
Suspension
Mods new tank break.png
Brake System
Mods new tank filter.png
Filters
Mods new tank transmission.png
Transmission
Mods new tank engine.png
Engine
Mods tank tool kit.png
Improved Parts
Mods extinguisher.png
Improved FPE
Mods tank reinforcement fr.png
Crew Replenishment
Mods smoke screen.png
Smoke grenade
Mods new tank horizontal aiming.png
Horizontal Drive
Mods tank ammo.png
30mm_173_HEI_ammo_pack
Mods thermal sight.png
NVD
Mods tank cannon.png
Adjustment of Fire
Mods counterMeasures.png
LWS/LR
Mods airstrike.png
Airstrike
Mods new tank vertical aiming.png
Elevation Mechanism
Mods scouting.png
Improved optics
Mods tank ammo.png
30mm_173_APDS_FS_ammo_pack
Mods scout streak.png
Scout UAV
Mods art support.png
Artillery Support

Armaments

Laser rangefinder
Reduces the error and increases the maximum measurable distance of the rangefinder
Night vision device
Improves visibility by enhancing natural light or active illumination.
Thermal imager
Allows to see thermal radiation in the infrared range day and night

Main armament

30 mm Bushmaster 2 Mk.44 cannon
Two-plane stabilizer
Reduces the swing of the gun in two planes while moving
Ammunition450 rounds
First-order150 rounds
Belt capacity75 rounds
Reloadbasic crew → aces
0.3 → 0.2 s
Fire rate201 shots/min
Vertical guidance-10° / 40°
Main article: Bushmaster 2 Mk.44 (30 mm)
30 mm Bushmaster 2 Mk.44 Turret rotation speed (°/s) Reloading rate (seconds)
Mode Capacity (Belt) Fire rate Vertical Horizontal Stabilizer Stock Upgraded Full Expert Aced Stock Full Expert Aced
Arcade 450 (75) 200 -10°/+40° ±180° Two-plane 57.1 79.1 96.0 106.2 113.0 13.00 11.50 10.60 10.00
Realistic 35.7 42.0 51.0 56.4 60.0

Ammunition

  • Default: APDS · HEI-T · HEI-T
  • MK266: HEI-T
  • MK258: APFSDS

Penetration statistics
Ammunition Penetration @ 0° Angle of Attack (mm)
10 m 100 m 500 m 1,000 m 1,500 m 2,000 m
HEI-T 9 8 6 5 3 3
APDS 87 86 81 75 70 65
APFSDS 116 115 110 104 99 93
Shell details
Ammunition Velocity
(m/s) 		Projectile
mass (kg) 		Fuse delay
(m) 		Fuse sensitivity
(mm) 		Explosive mass
(TNT equivalent) (g) 		Ricochet
0% 50% 100%
HEI-T 1,080 0.36 0.1 0.1 54.4 79° 80° 81°
APDS 1,480 0.19 - - - 75° 78° 80°
APFSDS 1,430 0.1 - - - 78° 80° 81°

Ammo racks

Full
ammo 		1st
rack empty 		2nd
rack empty 		3rd
rack empty 		4th
rack empty 		5th
rack empty 		6th
rack empty 		Visual
discrepancy
6 __ (+__) __ (+__) __ (+__) __ (+__) __ (+__) __ (+__) __

Machine guns

12.7 mm M2HB machine gun
Two-plane stabilizer
Reduces the swing of the gun in two planes while moving
Ammunition2 000 rounds
Belt capacity200 rounds
Reloadbasic crew → aces
10.4 → 8.0 s
Fire rate575 shots/min
Vertical guidance-20° / 60°
Main article: M2HB (12.7 mm)
12.7 mm M2HB
Mount Capacity (Belt) Fire rate Vertical Horizontal
Pintle 2,000 (200) 575 -20°/+60° ±180°

Usage in battles

The VBCI-2 (MCT30) stands as a versatile and potent asset, with its capabilities extending beyond traditional ground warfare. In armoured combat, the VBCI-2 excels in a range of roles, including reconnaissance, and offensive operations. Armed with the MCT30 unmanned turret, equipped with a 30 mm autocannon and supplementary weapons, it possesses exceptional anti-vehicle capabilities, effectively engaging and neutralizing threats both on open terrain and in urban environments. When facing armoured targets, the utilization of MK258 APFSDS rounds enhances its anti-armour capabilities, penetrating protected adversaries. However, it's important to note that the APFSDS rounds may prove lacklustre when confronting Main Battle Tanks (MBTs) frontally due to their formidable armour. Nevertheless, its ability to target the sides and rear of MBTs remains formidable, potentially resulting in their destruction.

Notably, the VBCI-2's combat capabilities extend into anti-aircraft warfare. The advanced sensor suite, including Infrared Search and Track (IRST) technology and thermal imaging, enables the vehicle to detect and track aerial threats, while its rapid-firing autocannon can engage low-flying aircraft and drones. For engaging aircraft, the use of MK266 HEI-T rounds provides effective anti-aircraft firepower, deterring and countering airborne threats with precision.

Furthermore, the VBCI-2 serves a significant role in mechanized combat as a support vehicle. Its mobility allows it to rapidly manoeuvre across varied landscapes, providing repair assistance to other armoured units. The vehicle's ability to swiftly move through flanks, while offering protective cover and fire support, enhances the cohesion and effectiveness of combined arms operations.

In summary, the VBCI-2's combat uses in armoured scenarios are manifold. It excels in reconnaissance, and offensive roles, owing to its potent weaponry and agile mobility. Its anti-aircraft capabilities offer air defense augmentation, bolstering the protection of mechanized units. Additionally, the VBCI-2's role as a support vehicle enhances the overall effectiveness of mechanized combat operations by providing rapid response, support, and auxiliary functions. Through its adaptability, firepower, and versatility, the VBCI-2 remains a cornerstone of French top-tier armoured forces, capable of fulfilling diverse combat roles in the evolving landscape of warfare.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Great mobility
  • Access to APFSDS rounds with good penetration values
  • Full APFSDS belts
  • High turret rotation speed
  • Frontally located Engine and Fuel Tank can absorb shots

Cons:

  • Rather poor armour
  • Slower rate of fire than 25 mm and 20 mm autocannons
  • Crew can easily be knocked out
  • Ammunition stored in easy-to-detonate racks
  • Wheeled vehicle, speed can drop off in mud/snow and no neutral steering
  • Vulnerable to overpressure damage

History

Development

In the early 1990s, the French government started the VBM (Véhicule Blindé Modulaire — Modular Armoured Vehicle) as a replacement for its older IFVs. Soon the project caught the attention of Germany and the United Kingdom, nations that were also operating aging IFVs like the German Marder. The first prototype was unveiled in 1996 and was called X8A. However the joint program was abandoned and France continued the project on their own with 700 units ordered in 2000.

The program quickly advanced, with testings between 2003 and 2004 in agility, mobility and electronics. 5 prototypes were tested under real conditions in 2004 and 2005, the tests resulted in major modifications to the unmanned DRAGAR turret, thus the project was delayed while this issue was fixed. The VBCI was also considered as an APC and a mortar carrier, and was also tested by the British for the FRES program.

Service

The first batch finished deliveries in 2010, while the second one was delivered in 2012. The IFV has seen some improvements as well as action in Africa, in peacekeeping missions by France in some of their old colonies. In 2014 the first modification pack was unveiled, a 32 ton modification, with more internal volume, redistributed crew and electronics, improved steering and slightly better protection. The French Armed Forces announced their intentions to proccure this vehicle starting in 2015, to this day new units are being delivered or upgraded.

Variants and Export

The VBCI 2 was the improved variant of the VBCI, with a more powerful diesel engine capable of 600hp, improved crew comfort and new vision cameras. This version was developed mainly for export, the weight was increased to 32 tons and a prototype with a two man turret with a 40mm cannon was tested

The United Kingdom and Qatar showed interest in the VBCI. The UK considered the VBCI for its MIV program, that was meant to replace the aging Warrior IFV, but the Boxer was selected over the VBCI in 2019. Meanwhile, Qatar, who is an important customer of French weapon systems, made public its intentions to obtain 490 Nexter VBCI vehicles. However the lack of unmanned turrets on the market delayed further negotiations. In 2018 however, the turrets were provided by Kongsberg, as well as remote weapon stations in case that the negotiations were succesful.

Media

Skins
Videos
Unmanned Turret Tanks: Showcasing New Tech discusses the VBCI-2 (MCT30) at 05:07 - War Thunder Official Channel

See also

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  • reference to the series of the vehicles;
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External links

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France light tanks
AMC.34/35  AMC.34 YR · AMC.35 (ACG.1)
H.35/39  H.35 · H.39 · H.39 "Cambronne"
AMX-13  AMX-13 (FL11) · AMX-13-M24 · AMX-13 · AMX-13 (SS.11) · AMX-13-90 · AMX-13 (HOT)
Wheeled  AML-90 · AMX-10RC · Vextra 105
AMD.35  AMD.35 · AMD.35 (SA35)
E.B.R.  E.B.R. (1951) · E.B.R. (1954) · E.B.R. (1963)
Other  FCM.36 · R.35 (SA38) · Char 25t · MARS 15 · VBCI-2 (MCT30)
Austria  SK-105A2
Great Britain  ▄Crusader Mk.II
Netherlands  CV 9035NL
USA  LVT-4/40 · ▄M3A3 Stuart

France premium ground vehicles
Light tanks  AMD.35 (SA35) · H.39 "Cambronne" · LVT-4/40 · AMX-13 (SS.11) · AMX-13-M24 · E.B.R. (1954) · E.B.R. (1963) · VBCI-2 (MCT30)
Medium tanks  M4A1 (FL10) · Panther "Dauphiné" · AMX-30 · AMX-30 Super · AMX-50 (TO90/930)
Heavy tanks  B1 ter · 2C bis · Somua SM
Tank destroyers  Lorraine 155 Mle.50

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