VBMR-L Serval – a key component in modern operations of the French Army
The VBMR-L Serval is a French 4×4 wheeled armoured vehicle developed by Nexter Systems (KNDS France today) and Texelis, which entered service with the French army in 2022. This new armoured vehicle represents a significant advance in French land defence. Designed to meet the modern requirements of the armed forces, it combines cutting-edge technology, versatility and high levels of protection. By 2035, the French army will have 978 Servals as part of the Scorpion programme and 1,060 Servals as part of the Protected Multi-Purpose Tactical Vehicle programme.
The development contract for the VBMR-L (Véhicule Blindé Multi-Rôle Léger) Serval was notified by the Direction Générale de l’Armement (DGA) to Nexter Systems and Texelis on 12 February 2018. The VBMR-L Serval and the VBMR Griffon are gradually replacing the French army’s fleet of VABs (Véhicule de l’Avant Blindé). The VBMR-L Serval is a 4×4 vehicle designed for the French Army’s contact units. It exists in several versions: Troop Transport, Command Post, Artillery Observation, Engineer Vehicle, Medical Evacuation, SA2R (Surveillance, Acquisition, Intelligence and Reconnaissance), Tactical Communication Group, etc. The VBMR-L Serval is equipped with communications resources and the SCORPION information and combat system (SICS).
The Serval is a key component in modern operations of the French army. It is used to transport troops, carry out reconnaissance and ensure the safety of convoys in hostile environments. Its design is based on adaptability, enabling it to be used for a wide range of missions. The vehicle stands out for its exceptional mobility. Capable of navigating difficult terrain, it offers remarkable agility for a vehicle in its class. This mobility is crucial for the rapid deployment of forces and for avoiding potential threats. In terms of transport capacity, the Serval can accommodate up to 10 equipped soldiers, a major asset for operations requiring a rapid and effective response. This feature makes it indispensable for rapid deployment missions where every second counts.
A powerful engine, effective armament and protection
The Serval is equipped with a powerful and reliable engine, essential for missions requiring high performance. The vehicle is powered by a latest-generation diesel engine (Militarized Cummins 6-cylinder in-line diesel engine), offering a perfect balance between power (375 hp) and fuel economy (operational range up to 600 km).
The Serval is equipped with a roof-mounted heavy machine gun and can be configured to carry different types of armament depending on the mission. This modularity makes it an invaluable tool for the army, capable of adapting to a variety of combat scenarios.
Protecting the crew and the passengers is another absolute priority in the design of the Serval. The vehicle is armoured against bullets and mine explosions. The level of protection ensures the safety of the soldiers inside, even in the most perilous conflict zones.
Deployed in various theatres of operation, the Serval has proved its effectiveness internationally. Its adaptability to different climates and terrains makes it ideal for UN and NATO missions. The Serval’s involvement in these missions underlines its strategic importance and reliability as the vehicle of choice for international operations.
Specifications
- Modular 17-tonne class vehicle; 4 main versions: Armoured Patrol Vehicle, Tactical Communication Hub, Surveillance Acquisition Intelligence and Reconnaissance, Electronic Warfare.
- Specific sensors: optical and radar intelligence, electronic warfare, etc.
- Threat detectors: optical missile warning system, acoustic missile warning system
- Crew: up to 10 (2+8) soldiers equipped with the FELI system
- Remotely-operated turret that can be fitted with a 12.7mm or 7.62mm machine gun or a 40mm automatic grenade launcher
- Ballistic, anti-mine and Improvised Explosive Device protection
- Common SCORPION vetronics: SICS, CONTACT, detection and self-protection systems, etc.
A proven platform
The Serval vehicle has been deployed in peace missions in Africa, where its ability to operate in extreme conditions has been put to the test. Feedback from these deployments has contributed to ongoing improvements to the vehicle, confirming its essential role in peacekeeping operations. In Europe, the Serval has also been deployed as part of joint exercises, reinforcing military cooperation between NATO member countries. These exercises have tested the vehicle’s capabilities in a variety of conditions, providing valuable data for its future development.
"First operational deployment in Estonia for the Serval multi-role armoured vehicle. The French Army is deploying its most modern equipment in the service of strategic solidarity with its allies", said General Pierre Schill, the French Chief of Staff, in June 2024. The first operational unit to be equiped with the Servals was the 3rd Marine Infantry Parachute Regiment.
The integration of the Serval into the French armed forces marks a significant step in the modernisation of its vehicle fleet. Its introduction is part of a vast renewal programme aimed at equipping the army with resources that meet today’s combat standards. One of the main advantages of the Serval is its modularity. It can be configured to meet different needs, from troop transport to armed reconnaissance. This flexibility is essential for an army that has to adapt quickly to tactical changes and developments in the theatre of war.
The presence of the Serval in the army’s armament also improves the coordination and logistics of operations. Its compatibility with other vehicle and weapons systems simplifies maintenance and training, crucial aspects in maintaining operational effectiveness. The Serval is not just an armoured vehicle; it is also a concentrate of innovative technologies. It incorporates cutting-edge communications systems, which are essential for coordinating units in the field. These technologies enable the rapid and secure transmission of information, crucial to the success of missions.
If comes with advanced navigation systems, essential for navigation in unknown or modified environments, night vision capabilities enabling operators to carry out missions in low-light conditions, and reconnaissance drones which can be deployed from the vehicle to provide real-time intelligence without endangering troops. These technological advances place the Serval at the forefront of armoured vehicles, capable of responding effectively to modern threats and playing a crucial role in future defence strategies.
