KNDS France and Greece’s Metlen Energy & Metals recently signed an exclusive partnership agreement in Athens to enable the production of an infantry fighting vehicle (IFV) in Greece.
The agreement to build the VBCI “Philoctetes” includes the transfer of expertise in aluminum armor and the localized manufacturing of the welded structure at Metlen’s facilities in Volos, central Greece.
“Philoctetes” refers to the Trojan War hero and keeper of the arrows of Heracles, essential to the Achaeans to bring down the city.
According to both companies, this is the first time KNDS France has entered into a partnership of this scale for the production of 8×8 armored vehicles.
The collaboration is intended to meet the Hellenic Army’s requirement for a large number of infantry fighting vehicles and potentially other European clients. The agreement also aims to improve equipment availability by locating both production and maintenance capacities in Greece.
Capabilities of the Infantry Fighting Vehicles to be produced in Greece
In a press release, Metlen said that by locating key manufacturing and maintenance operations within Greece, the partnership enhances equipment availability. This dynamic also reflects the beneficial trickle-down effect to the Greek industry and strengthens the Franco-Greek defence relationship.
The VBCI Philoctetes is equipped with a T40 remotely operated turret, which integrates a 40mm cannon with a maximum effective range of 2,500 meters and a rate of fire of up to 200 rounds per minute.
In addition to its firepower, the Philoctetes is equipped with a battlefield management-compatible electronics suite. The driver has access to a 180-degree day/night vision system, while the commander benefits from a 360-degree panoramic view.
Metlen has a proven track record in the defense sector, having been a trusted industrial partner for KNDS Deutschland for the last 23 years. Its Volos-based production facility is already responsible for shielding welding of the Leopard 2 MBT. With this latest collaboration, the company is further strengthening its footprint in the European defense initiatives.
The geopolitical landscape and the need for increased European defense autonomy necessitate a rapid reinforcement of the continent’s defense capabilities, says the Greek company.
Greece stresses local industrial input into defense contracts
The European rearmament drive (ReArm) underlines the importance of localized defense production and industrial self-sufficiency. The Greek industry, through initiatives like this, plays a pivotal role in contributing to Europe’s strategic independence, while also creating highly skilled jobs and fostering technological advancements. “With this agreement, Metlen is making a substantial commitment to Greece’s and Europe’s industrial base,” it adds.
PM Kyriakos Mitsotakis stressed last week in parliament that no future defense contracts will proceed without significant Greek industrial involvement, either through component manufacturing or workforce participation.
He said that every procurement must include Greek parts or the involvement of Greek personnel. Existing co-production capabilities at Hellenic Aerospace Industry (EAB), Greek shipyards, and Hellenic Defense Systems (EAS) will play a key role in implementing this initiative.
The plan underscores a shift toward self-reliance, with domestic firms expected to contribute to naval vessels, submarines, armored vehicles and munitions.
See all the latest news from Greece and the world at Greekreporter.com. Contact our newsroom to report an update or send your story, photos and videos. Follow GR on Google News and subscribe here to our daily email!
