The Panhard VBR (Vehicule Blinde a Roues) multipurpose armored vehicles was developed as a private venture following the success of the Panhard VBL armored scout car. The VBR has similar layout to the VBL, but with increased dimensions and payload. Vehicle can undertake a wide range of battlefield missions. The first prototype was revealed in 2002. As of 2014 the Panhard VBR received no production orders. However it is possible that this vehicle will enter service with the French Army in the near future. Once in service it could be used as an armored scout car or multi-purpose armored personnel carrier and replace the previous VBL.
The Panhard VBR is larger than the well-known VBR armored car. Also it has more internal space. The VBR has a crew of two and provides accommodation for 2 to 7 troops, depending on the mission variant. A baseline vehicle has four-doors and rear doors. The VBR has a payload capacity of 2-2.5 t, depending on the version.
Armor of the VBR provides protection from small arms fire and artillery shell splinters. Add-on composite armor provides protection against 14.5 mm armor-piercing rounds. So once add-on armor is fitted the Panhard VBR is resistant to heavy machine gun fire. Vehicle has a V-shaped floor to provide increased protection against mines. It is also fitted with anti-mine layer, as well as NBC protection and fire suppression systems.
The first prototype of the VBR was fitted with a remotely controlled ωєαρσи station, armed with a 12.7 mm machine gun. The Panhard VBR can be fitted with various other ωєαρσиs, such as 40 mm automatic grenade launcher, cannon, or anti-tank missiles.
To reduce price and life-cycle costs, the Panhard VBR uses many commercially available components, including diesel engine and transmission. Vehicle is powered by the MTU 4R106 diesel engine, developing 325 hp. The Panhard VBR is fitted with run-flat tyres and central tyre inflation system. Vehicle is not amphibious, however its amphibious propulsion system was under development.
This armored vehicle is well suited for airlifts. It can be airlifted by medium transport aircraft, such as the C-130 Hercules. So it can be rapidly deployed anywhere in the world.