The basic APC model is defensed by machine guns and personal weapons carried by the occupants whereas the definitive fighting form introduces a remote-controlled turret armed with a 30mm Mk 44 Bushmaster II series autocannon and 7.62mm coaxial machine gun. The turret is of Israeli design (Elbit Systems) and is manufactured locally under license. A 12.7mm Heavy Machine Gun (HMG) supplies local air defense and can be used against light-armored threats as well. Smoke grenade dischargers provide a self-screening action for the vehicle and crew.
Beyond the aforementioned models, the VBTP will also appear in more dedicated battlefield forms such as a Command and Control (C2) variant, armored ambulance, tank-killer (proposed), and mortar carrier (120mm caliber). This lineup showcases the versatility of the Italian design.
The Brazilian Army is slated to received over 2,000 VBTP-MRs into 2030 with deliveries having begun in 2012 through an initial 200-strong batch. The system will also be used by Brazilian Marine forces.
The Lebanese Army is the only recognized export customer of the vehicle to date (2016).
December 2017 - The Brazilian military reaffirmed their commitment to succeeding the aging line of EE-11 Urutu vehicles with the Italian VBTP-MR.
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