Italy Adopts BvS10 Vehicle to Enhance its All Terrain Amphibious Mobility.

According to information published by Iveco Defence Vehicles on May 22, 2025, BAE Systems Hägglunds and Iveco Defence Vehicles (IDV) signed a memorandum of understanding to establish a strategic collaboration for the introduction and localized production of the BvS10 all-terrain vehicle for the Italian Armed Forces. This industrial partnership will leverage the technical expertise of both companies and Italy’s domestic manufacturing capabilities to develop Italian-specific variants of the BvS10, thereby reinforcing the country’s defense autonomy and supply chain security.
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The BvS10 consists of two tracked units connected by a central articulation mechanism, with the front module serving as the driver compartment and the rear module designed for troop or equipment transport (Picture source: BAE Systems)

The cooperation aims to equip Italy with a globally fielded vehicle, recognized for its high mobility and modular design. Tommy Gustafsson-Rask, General Manager of BAE Systems Hägglunds, emphasized the significance of this partnership for national defense and the European industrial base. Claudio Catalano, CEO of IDV, confirmed his company's commitment to delivering military platforms that meet the evolving needs of the Italian Army and other armed forces.

The BvS10 is an articulated, amphibious, tracked armored vehicle jointly developed by BAE Systems in the United Kingdom and Land Systems Hägglunds in Sweden. It consists of two tracked units connected by a central articulation mechanism, with the front module serving as the driver compartment and the rear module designed for troop or equipment transport. The vehicle is capable of operating in extreme environments, from desert to arctic conditions, and is suitable for rapid deployment in multinational operations. It has a payload capacity between 3 and 5 tonnes and is powered by a 250-horsepower Cummins engine paired with an Allison MD3560 automatic transmission. The BvS10 can reach speeds of 65 km/h on roads and 5 km/h in water, with amphibious preparation completed in under two minutes. Its operational range is 500 kilometers.

In terms of armament, the BvS10 Viking can be equipped with a 7.62 mm or 12.7 mm machine gun mounted on the roof, supported by smoke grenade launchers fitted on the top front section. Its modular architecture allows for the integration of subsystems such as additional armor kits or remote weapon stations. The vehicle’s base armor provides protection against 7.62 mm armor-piercing rounds and 152 mm artillery shell fragments at distances over 10 meters, with mine protection rated to STANAG 2a/2b level using dedicated kits and an RPG-defensive cage. Its variants include troop transport, ambulance, command vehicle, logistics carrier, repair and recovery unit, and mortar carrier. Already in service with several European forces, including Austria, the Netherlands, France, and the United Kingdom, the BvS10 stands out for its operational versatility and ability to perform in environments inaccessible to conventional platforms.

Currently operated by the armed forces of Austria, France, the Netherlands, Sweden, the United Kingdom, and Ukraine, the BvS10 has proven reliable across diverse operational theaters. The partnership with IDV will support its adoption by the Italian Army, ensuring logistical alignment with current users and enhancing interoperability in joint operations. A subsidiary of the Iveco Group, IDV brings expertise in the production of military vehicles adapted to modern defense requirements, while BAE Systems continues to deliver advanced defense solutions to international clients.

This strategic agreement marks a significant development in strengthening Italy’s defense capabilities and reflects a broader trend of European industrial cooperation. By localizing production and adapting a proven platform to national requirements, the partnership demonstrates a shared intent to increase resilience, interoperability, and long-term military readiness.