VBM FRECCIA COMMAND POST

The VBM Freccia Command Post is a combination of two vehicles: the VBM ACP TU (Tactical Unit) and the VBM ACP CU (Command Unit) both based on the well-proven and highly reliable drive train of the 8X8 Centauro Family with a special designed hull.

The vehicle can be customized according to the specific requirements of each customer; the “Command Unit” is equipped with a Leonardo HITROLE™ 12.7mm remotely controlled overhead weapon station while the “Tactical Unit” is equipped with a Leonardo HITFIST™ 25mm turret.

The very large internal volume, 13,3 m3 for the “Command Unit” and 11 m3 for the “Tactical Unit”, can be configured in order to provide a complete set of situation awareness and communication components and to form a fully network enabled capability.

Both vehicles have outstanding tactical mobility, thanks to the powerful Iveco engine driving an automatic gearbox and 3-axle steering. They have moreover an exceptional ride quality due to the independent MacPherson suspensions, the hydro-pneumatic struts and the powerful disk brakes on each wheel station.

The adoption of the well-known “H shaped” transmission, with twin side mounted drive shafts in place of the more traditional single central shaft, provides the vehicle with a low silhouette and an inherently stealthier profile than others in its class. Rapid exit is facilitated by the use of a low angle hydraulic rear ramp also equipped with an integrated emergency exit hatch. The vehicles have on-board APU, capable to extend powering of mission equipment with engine off (generation mode). The APU is also capable to produce cooling power by integrating with the vehicle air conditioning system (cooling mode). As standard, the vehicles are also fitted with two batteries of smoke grenade launchers, that can be activated manually or automatically by a Laser Warning System.

The monocoque steel hulls can be enhanced to customer requirements by add-on protection packs to increase the protection levels against direct fire, land mines and IEDs. A dedicated suite of command, control and communication systems based on VHF, HF, UHF wide band, UHF LOS-SATCOM and X-band on the move satellite is the backbone of the ACP vehicles.