French Defence Company Panhard presents its range of VBL light armoured vehicle at GDA 2011 1312113

The VBL is used by more than 18 countries, including Kuwait. At GDA 2011, the Defence & Aerospace Exhibition, the French Company Panhard presents a VBL from the Kuwaiti National Guard and the latest upgrade version of the vehicle, the VBL Mk II which was delivered to the Kuwaiti Ministry of the Interior in October 2009.

The Mk2 version of the VBL includes many improvements on previous models: the power of the vehicle has been greatly increased thanks to a Steyr engine of 125 hp, while its cross-country mobility has been improved by a ZF four-speed automatic gearbox and larger tyres.

The central tyre inflation system also contributes to improving the mobility of the vehicle in soft ground, especially in sand. In addition, the VBL Mk2 retains its amphibious capability and NBC protection.

The Kuwaiti VBL Mk 2 is used for patrol and surveillance missions, is equipped with a remotely weapon station armed with a 12.7 mm machine gun. This weapon, useable in all conditions and especially at night, will reinforce the offensive capabilities of the VBL.

The VBL is actually in use by the French troops deployed in Lebanon and Afghanistan. The VBL can be equipped with an armour upgrade to increase the protection against IED (Improvised Explosive Device) and land mines.