First serial production contract for the Centauro II signed for the Brazilian Army

Rome, 01 September 2026

Leonardo, through the CIO Consortium (IDV – OTO Melara), has signed an initial serial
production contract with the Brazilian Army within the framework of Programa Estratégico Forças Blindadas, for the Viatura Blindadas de Combate de Cavalaria Média Sobre Rodas (VBC Cav - MSR 8x8) project. The contract provides for the delivery of seven Centauro II 8x8 wheeled vehicles, equipped with a 120 mm main gun, and represents the first batch of serial production under an overall program for 98 vehicles, to be delivered in annual tranches.

The agreement was signed following the successful completion of operational testing and the receipt of the two vehicles comprising the initial evaluation batch.
The Centauro II represents the most advanced evolution of this type of wheeled armored vehicle, designed to meet the demands of modern operational scenarios. Fully digitized and interoperable, it is engineered to operate ef fectively across a wide spectrum of missions - ranging from national security to peacekeeping and support operations - up to the most complex deployments in different operational theaters.

Equipped with the HITFACT MkII turret, a modern 720 HP propulsion system, and an H-drive transmission, this vehicle combines the firepower of a modern main battle tank with the high strategic mobility of a wheeled platform.

Its performance is distinguished by its observation capabilities, firing precision, communication quality, ergonomics, and a high level of crew protection.

To date, the Centauro II remains the only vehicle in service capable of integrating a 120mm armament on a wheeled platform.

Already adopted by the Italian Army - which has placed orders for 150 units - the Centauro II is establishing itself as a global benchmark in the field of wheeled, large-caliber, anti-tank armored vehicles.

Photo, left to right: Brazilian Army Logistics Commander, General Maurílio Miranda Netto Ribeiro; Giovanni Luisi, SVP Sales and Marketing at CIO Consortium