Brazilian Army completes firing tests for its new Italian-made Centauro II BR 8x8 tank destroyers.

As reported by Roberto Caiafa on January 17, 2025, the Brazilian Army has completed the final phase of operational evaluations for its first Centauro II BR 8x8 tank destroyers at the Saicã Firing Range. These tests included live firing of 120mm HEAT and APFSDS ammunition at a decommissioned Urutu 6x6 vehicle to assess the firepower of the two Italian-made Centauro II vehicles against armored threats. These evaluations are part of the approval process to determine the suitability of the Centauro II for operational use under the Army's modernization program.
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The Centauro II BR tank destroyer is armed with a manually loaded 120mm L45 smoothbore gun capable of firing NATO-standard ammunition, as well as a coaxial FN MAG58 7.62mm machine gun and another pintle-mounted MAG58. (Picture source: 6ª Bda Inf Bld)

Brazil’s procurement of the Centauro II tank destroyer is intended to replace the aging fleet of EE-9 Cascavel 6x6 reconnaissance vehicles, developed domestically in the 1970s and now inadequate for modern operational needs. Armed with 90mm guns, the Cascavel has become obsolete, necessitating the acquisition of a more advanced vehicle. The initial contract, signed in November 2022, covers 98 vehicles valued at approximately $1 billion, with delivery planned over 15 years. A second tranche for 123 additional vehicles, worth an estimated $1.1 billion, is proposed to bring the total fleet to 221 vehicles, addressing Brazil’s long-term requirements for armored mobility and firepower.

The decision to acquire the Centauro II followed a competitive evaluation process in which it was selected over other platforms based on operational performance, industrial benefits, and compatibility with existing infrastructure. The program has faced delays, including logistical challenges when the first two vehicles were temporarily held in Germany during transit. Initial deliveries have undergone trials, and production is expected to transition to Brazil, where Iveco’s Sete Lagoas facility will oversee assembly. Modified to meet Brazilian Army specifications, the Centauro II BR features a 720-horsepower Iveco Vector V8 engine, modular armor, a V-shaped hull for mine resistance, and a CBRN protection system.

The Centauro II BR is equipped with a manually loaded 120mm L45 smoothbore gun capable of firing NATO-standard ammunition, including APFSDS and HEAT rounds. Its turret includes a coaxial FN MAG58 7.62mm machine gun and a pintle-mounted MAG58, with plans to integrate the Brazilian-made REMAX 4 remote weapon station in future batches. The vehicle is fitted with eight 76mm smoke grenade dischargers, an advanced fire control system, and a situational awareness suite featuring thermal and day cameras. Communication systems include the L3Harris Falcon III VHF radio, Thales SOTAS M3 intercom, and the SGB battle management system. Locally developed solutions, such as a software-defined multi-band radio under the RDS-Defesa project by CTEx and AEL Sistemas, may replace these systems in future iterations.

Brazil’s procurement of the Centauro II tank destroyer is intended to replace the aging fleet of EE-9 Cascavel 6x6 reconnaissance vehicles, developed domestically in the 1970s and now inadequate for modern operational needs. (Picture source: 6ª Bda Inf Bld)

This procurement is part of a broader initiative to modernize Brazil’s armed forces through the acquisition of advanced equipment and the development of domestic production capabilities. These efforts include purchasing 12 UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters, upgrading the A-29 Super Tucano light attack aircraft, and exploring options for a new fighter to complement the Gripen, with candidates such as the Indian Tejas and the Chinese J-10 under consideration. Domestically, the KC-390 Millennium, Brazil's largest military aircraft, the MSS 1.2 AC anti-tank missile, and the ASTROS multiple rocket launcher system represent several advancements in the country’s defense manufacturing.

The primary goal of these initiatives is to enhance Brazil’s sovereignty and address regional security challenges. Brazil’s extensive borders with countries such as Paraguay and Bolivia are critical transit points for transnational crimes, including drug trafficking and smuggling. To combat these threats, the government has deployed armed forces to secure borders, ports, and airports, forming part of a broader strategy to ensure territorial integrity and internal stability.

Brazil has also enhanced its military presence along the border with Venezuela, partly due to tensions stemming from the Venezuela-Guyana territorial dispute over the Essequibo region. In early 2024, additional troops and armored vehicles were deployed to Roraima state to enhance security and monitor developments. This effort is complemented by Brazil’s participation in joint military exercises with global powers such as the United States and China.

The Italian Army has ordered 150 units of the Centauro II tank destroyer to replace its Centauro I fleet, following several contracts signed in 2018, 2020, and 2024. (Picture source: Army Recognition)

The Centauro II tank destroyer succeeds the Centauro I, introduced in the early 1990s to provide mobile firepower against armored threats. Developed during the Cold War, the Centauro I combined an 8x8 wheeled platform with a 105mm gun. It was employed in various conflict and peacekeeping scenarios, including Somalia and Lebanon, and was recognized for its effectiveness in reconnaissance and fire support missions. The Centauro II builds on this legacy, integrating advancements in armament and protection.

The Centauro II features a 120mm smoothbore gun compatible with NATO-standard ammunition, including advanced airburst and APFSDS rounds. Its fire control systems and targeting equipment, such as stabilized sights and optronics, enable precise target engagement. Powered by a 720-horsepower Iveco Vector V8 engine, the vehicle achieves a maximum speed of 105 km/h and a range of 800 kilometers. Protection measures include modular armor meeting AEP 55 standards, a V-shaped hull for mine resistance, and NBC protection systems, enhancing its effectiveness in varied combat scenarios.

The Italian Army, the original operator of the Centauro II, has ordered 150 units to replace its Centauro I fleet. Initial contracts were signed in 2018, followed by additional orders in 2020 and 2024. These vehicles feature upgraded armor, advanced communication systems, and NATO-compliant configurations. Italy’s procurement strategy integrates the Centauro II into its cavalry regiments, addressing both conventional and asymmetric operational needs. The vehicles have also been deployed in NATO contexts, highlighting their role in Italy’s modernization efforts.