Brazilian Army signs contract for Centauro II armored vehicles

The Brazilian Army has signed a contract with the IDV–Oto Melara consortium, a company within the Leonardo group, to acquire Centauro II armored combat vehicles. The agreement was signed in Brasília on August 31.

The contract initially covers the acquisition of seven vehicles as part of a doctrinal experimentation lot. However, the broader program allows for annual orders with the potential to reach a total of 221 units, starting with an initial batch of 98 vehicles. These 8x8 wheeled combat vehicles are equipped with a 120 mm smoothbore cannon, the HITFACT MkII turret, digital fire control, thermal cameras, and laser rangefinders.

This acquisition is part of a strategic modernization program for the Brazilian Land Forces, aimed at enhancing the mobility, protection, and firepower of cavalry units. The Centauro II features advanced digital architecture, including monitoring and communication systems designed to integrate with the Army's command and control infrastructure.