Cyprus is reportedly set to acquire the French EBRC Jaguar as part of efforts to modernise the National Guard’s armoured vehicle fleet.
Replacing the AMX-30B2
The Ministry of Defence and the General Staff of the National Guard (GEF) are continuing efforts to identify the tank that will replace the first batch of Russian T-80U tanks.
At the same time, senior National Guard officers appear to have settled on the type of vehicle that will replace the French AMX-30B2 currently in service.
According to information reported by Kathimerini Cyprus and confirmed by senior military sources, Nicosia has selected the EBRC Jaguar, manufactured by KNDS France.
The EBRC Jaguar is a six-wheeled armoured reconnaissance and combat vehicle designed for operations in both urban and open terrain.
Jaguar to replace ERC-90 vehicles
The EBRC Jaguar is also expected to replace the National Guard’s ERC-90 Sagaie armoured vehicles.
According to military sources cited by Kathimerini Cyprus, the procurement will be carried out through the European SAFE programme.
The wider acquisition is expected to include 80 Griffon vehicles, 100 Serval vehicles and an upgrade programme for 80 VAB vehicles.
One of the key features of the EBRC Jaguar is its ability to carry Akeron anti-tank missiles. The missiles have previously been presented and test-fired during a National Guard exercise.
EBRC Jaguar specifications
The EBRC Jaguar was developed as part of France’s efforts to modernise its armed forces.
Its reported specifications include:
- Crew: Three personnel – commander, driver and gunner
- Length: 7.80 metres
- Width: 2.99 metres
- Height: 2.80 metres
- Configuration: 6×6 chassis with rear-axle steering and adjustable ground clearance
- Engine: Volvo D11 turbo-diesel, producing 500 horsepower
- Maximum speed: Up to 90 km/h
- Range: Approximately 800 kilometres
- Protection: Welded aluminium armour with additional protection packages against mines, IEDs and RPG rounds
Armament
The EBRC Jaguar is equipped with a 40mm CT40 telescopic cannon, with an effective range of approximately 1,500 metres.
It also carries a twin Akeron MP anti-tank missile launcher developed by MBDA.
The vehicle is additionally equipped with a remotely operated T3 weapon station fitted with a machine gun.
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