The FMBTECH initiative, an innovative program piloted by Thales and supported by the European Defense Fund (FED), marks a turning point in the modernization of European military technologies. This strategic alliance, bringing together 26 industrial players and research institutions from 13 European countries and Norway, attacks a major challenge: the modernization of the main combat tanks (MBT) of the European Union, while laying the basics of a future interoperable for fifth generation armored vehicles.
FMBTECH’s ambition: Improving European defense capacities
With a budget of 19 million euros, the FMBTECH program, lasting three years, focuses on the development of flexible and modular technologies for MBTs. The objective is clear: to meet the operational obsolescence of current floats of tanks while integrating modular technological bricks capable of adapting these vehicles to the requirements of modern war. This approach would better respond to the challenges posed by complex conflict zones, where the ability to adapt quickly to tactical developments is crucial.
FMBTECH is part of the European defense strategy, by putting particular emphasis on interoperability between the different Member States and support for small and medium -sized enterprises (SMEs) as well as to technological research organizations (RTO). This program is part of a broader effort aimed at strengthening transnational industrial cooperation within the EU to ensure that the European armed forces benefit from the most advanced technologies.
new generation combat vehicles
The FMBTECH program highlights the developments of the main models of combat tanks in Europe. Among these platforms, the Leopard 2 A8 and Leclerc XLR play a key role. The Leopard 2 A8, one of the most efficient models, is distinguished by a higher level of protection, new generation sensors, and improvements in command and control systems (C4i). This tank embodies the merger between technology and operationality, offering soldiers a better understanding of the battlefield thanks to intelligent systems fueled by artificial intelligence.
The Leclerc XLR, on the other hand, undergoes a modernization of its fleet to meet the needs of the French army. The update program aims to strengthen its security, communication capacities and interoperability with modern digital systems, allowing better coordination in combat situations.
Towards 5th generation combat tanks
The FMBTECH program is not content to improve existing models. It also opens the way to fifth generation combat vehicles, which combine advanced technologies with modularity allowing rapid adaptation to future threats. The Leopard 2 A-RC 3.0 and the Leclerc Evolution are remarkable examples. These new variants are equipped with advanced modular turrets which allow a fluid transition between different types of armaments, such as 120 mm and 140 mm guns. These technologies make it possible to offer increased flexibility in the face of a wide range of modern threats, including drones and prowner ammunition.
The Leclerc Evolution also offers an innovative configuration with four crew members, incorporating a manager of sensors and effectors, which optimizes its response to emerging threats. For its part, the Leopard 2 A-RC 3.0 adopts an unmanned turret, with automatic loading systems and an army of solutions to counter anti-chases threats.
Europe’s vision for the future of defense
Through initiatives like FMBTECH, Europe is getting closer to its objective of building a more coherent and more interconnected pan -friendly defense. This project illustrates the way in which European nations unite their forces to meet the geopolitical and technological challenges of tomorrow. The results of this program should lead to the creation of more efficient, safer and better integrated combat vehicles within European defense systems.
Support for SMEs and EU research centers in this area is a key component of this evolution, thus accelerating the maturation of disruptive capacities and guaranteeing Europe a place of choice in the race for military technologies of the future.
