KNDS France and METLEN entered into a strategic partnership at the start of 2025 for the local production of the VBCI PHILOCTETES
Integration of key industrial partners
KNDS France has forged two major partnerships with METLEN and SARACAKIS. METLEN will be responsible for local chassis production – thanks to a technology transfer for aluminum welding – and final integration of the PHILOCTETES weapon system. SARACAKIS will handle fleet maintenance to ensure the highest level of vehicle availability. Other companies such as MILTECH HELLAS and MEVACO will also contribute to the local supply chain.
With full support from France, the French Procurement Agency (DGA) will provide expertise throughout all phases of quality control, testing, and acceptance, enabling Greece to gain immediate operational capability.
Extended cooperation for a highly European IFV
The PHILOCTETES program is not only about delivering an infantry fighting vehicle; it also provides a way to strengthen Franco-Greek defense cooperation, both militarily and industrially.
It forms part of broader European-level industrial defense cooperation and aligns with KNDS France’s ambitious proposals under the ReArm Europe strategic initiative.
This extended cooperation is not limited to the Greek market: the ambition is to make the Hellenic Republic the birthplace of the program, paving the way for potential exports. All local partners would benefit from future opportunities.
PHILOCTETES: the advanced evolution of a combat-proven system
PHILOCTETES refers to the hero of the Trojan War and keeper of Heracles’ arrows – essential to the Achaeans in their conquest of Troy. The VBCI PHILOCTETES combines operational feedback from the French Army (Afghanistan, Mali, Lebanon, Central African Republic…) with the needs expressed by the Hellenic Army. It incorporates the latest advancements in all core combat functions:
– A remotely operated 40mm turret similar to that of the JAGUAR,
– An AKERON MP anti-tank missile pod,
– Enhanced all-around protection,
– Optimized ergonomics to ensure long-term operational effectiveness for the onboard infantry squad.
It covers a wide range of threats – from drones and aircraft to light vehicles and main battle tanks. It also comes in several variants: command post, ambulance, recovery vehicle, and a version equipped with Thales’ 2R2M mortar.
Thus, the VBCI PHILOCTETES is far more than just an infantry fighting vehicle: it is the most suitable direct-fire platform for Greece’s operational environment, ensuring its territorial sovereignty in the Aegean, while standing as a truly European system.
