Belgium’s First Griffon VBMR Hits the Ground and Redefines Mobility and Protection.

Belgium has reached a major milestone in the modernization of its armed forces with the rollout of its first Griffon VBMR (Multi-Role Armored Vehicle) intended for the Belgian Army. On July 15, 2025, in Staden, West Flanders, the company Mol Cy officially presented this first unit in the presence of the Chief of Defence, Air Force General Frederik Vansina, and the Minister of Defence, Theo Francken. This event marks the beginning of the implementation of the Franco-Belgian intergovernmental project launched in 2018 with the signing of the CaMo (Motorized Capability) agreement. The initiative aims to equip Belgium with hundreds of new-generation armored vehicles developed in collaboration with the French defense industry, to significantly transform the capabilities of the Belgian Motorized Brigade for the coming decades.
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The Griffon, officially known as VBMR (Multi-Role Armored Vehicle), is a 6x6 wheeled armored personnel carrier with a combat weight of 25 tons (Picture source: Belgian MoD)

The first results of this cooperation will be visible during the Belgian National Day celebrations: on July 21, two Griffon vehicles will participate in the military parade in Brussels at Place des Palais, while a third unit will be showcased at the Defence Village. This marks a significant step forward for the country’s military capabilities and underscores the local defense industry's involvement in the program.

The Griffon, officially known as VBMR (Multi-Role Armored Vehicle), is a 6x6 wheeled armored personnel carrier with a combat weight of 25 tons. It was developed under the French Scorpion program to replace the VAB. The vehicle can reach a maximum road speed of 90 km/h and has an operational range of 800 km, powered by a Renault Trucks 6-cylinder turbo diesel engine producing 400 horsepower, coupled with a ZF 7-speed automatic transmission.

The vehicle's protection complies with NATO STANAG 4569 Level 4 standards, allowing it to withstand 14.5 mm armor-piercing rounds, artillery shell splinters, and mine or IED explosions. Additional modular armor kits can be fitted to enhance protection levels.

Developed by the French Scorpion consortium, which includes KNDS, Arquus, and Thales, the program reflects the shared ambition of Belgium and France to harmonize their military equipment, doctrines, training, and logistical support. This integration seeks to strengthen the interoperability of the two countries' armed forces, particularly within the framework of NATO.

The Belgian variant of the Griffon is specifically configured to meet the operational needs of the land forces and medical services. It is equipped with smoke grenade launchers, various armament options, and comprehensive protection against ballistic threats, mines, and improvised explosive devices. The modular design supports the production of several variants, with infantry vehicles being delivered first, followed by ambulance, command post, and mortar carrier versions. The onboard Scorpion Combat Information System (SICS) provides full digital connectivity, enabling real-time tactical data sharing during operations. Additionally, the Belgian Griffon is equipped with remote-controlled weapon stations developed by FN Herstal, offering calibers ranging from 7.62 mm to 12.7 mm, as well as a 40 mm automatic grenade launcher.

The first operational use is scheduled for 2026 with the Belgian Army’s Liberation - 5th of the Line Battalion, which will be the first unit to field the Griffon. This transition will include the deployment of new communication, command, and tactical systems. The final Griffon delivery is expected in 2031.

While the vehicles are pre-assembled in France, final assembly is carried out by Mol Cy in Flanders. The company integrates the specific equipment, performs testing, and completes the finishing work, including painting. Belgian-made subsystems are incorporated to tailor each vehicle to national operational requirements. To support this effort, Mol Cy invested in a state-of-the-art 5,500 square meter facility equipped with a dedicated test track. Its personnel received training at the Scorpion production line in Roanne, France, to acquire and apply specialized manufacturing techniques.

This industrial partnership not only supports the growth of Belgium's defense industry but also creates jobs and facilitates technology transfer. According to Minister Francken, the first deliveries by the end of 2025 will enhance the mobility, speed, and protection of Belgian forces on the battlefield. General Vansina noted that this acquisition enables Belgium to advance towards its NATO capability objectives while building a modern, versatile army capable of meeting future challenges.

The CaMo program plans for the assembly of over 382 Griffon vehicles by 2030-2031. These will gradually replace the Dingo vehicles currently in service, addressing Belgium’s modernization needs. The procurement includes 35 Griffon SAN (medical evacuation variant) and 60 Jaguar armored reconnaissance vehicles. An additional 24 Griffon MEPAC mortar carriers are also planned. 

This program reflects Belgium’s ongoing commitment to NATO and its contribution to European security. The participation of the Griffon in the National Day celebrations symbolizes the tangible progress of this European defense cooperation and the reinforcement of both military and industrial capacities within Belgium. Through this strategic partnership, Belgium aims to ensure that its armed forces remain credible and operational for the next thirty years.