VBL

VBL, short for Véhicule Blindé Léger, is a family of French light armoured cars developed by Panhard, now part of Arquus. It was designed for reconnaissance, liaison, security, and the rapid transport of small infantry teams, emphasizing mobility and crew protection in varied terrains. The VBL entered service with the French Army in the late 1980s and has since been exported to several other countries.

Typically configured as a compact 4x4 armoured car, the VBL accommodates a two-man crew (driver and commander) with space for additional passengers or mission equipment. It can be outfitted with a range of offensive and defensive systems, from machine gun stations to remote weapons stations. Armor provides protection against small arms fire and shell fragments, and many variants offer NBC protection and climate control for operations in diverse environments. The vehicle’s modular design allows rapid reconfiguration for different missions.

Multiple variants exist to support different roles, including reconnaissance and patrol, command and control, ambulance, and logistical support. Some configurations mount turrets or light cannons, while others emphasize sensor suites, communications, or casualty evacuation capabilities.

Overall, the VBL remains a core element of light armoured forces in France and among allied operators, reflecting a broader trend toward mobile, protected patrol vehicles. The design lineage continues in Arquus’s contemporary light-armoured offerings derived from the VBL concept.