View source for Engineering:Véhicule de l'Avant Blindé

{{Short description|French armoured personnel carrier}}
{{Infobox weapon
| name               = {{Lang|fr|Véhicule de l'Avant Blindé|italic=no}}
| image              = 9th Light Armoured Marine Brigade Bastille Day 2013 Paris t113851.jpg
| image_size         = 300
| caption            = {{Lang|fr|Véhicule de l'Avant Blindé|italic=no}} of the 9th Light Armoured Marine Brigade Bastille Day (Paris, 2013)
| origin             = France
| type               = [[Engineering:Armoured personnel carrier|Armoured personnel carrier]]
| is_vehicle         = yes
| is_UK              = yes
| service            = 1976–present
| used_by            = See ''[[Engineering:Véhicule de l'Avant Blindé#Operators|Operators]]''
| designer           = GIAT Industries
| design_date        = 
| manufacturer       = Renault Trucks Defense<br />MACK Defense<ref>As of October 2017, [https://web.archive.org/web/20171022193517/http://www.mackdefense.com/products/ using the Wayback machine on the official MACK Defense website indicates that it no longer shows the Lakota.]</ref>
| unit_cost          = 
| production_date    = 
| number             = 5,000<ref name="JNS">{{Cite web|url=https://www.janes.com/images/assets/802/59802/French_armour_programmes_move_ahead.pdf|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20191015105225/https://www.janes.com/images/assets/802/59802/French_armour_programmes_move_ahead.pdf|archive-date = 15 October 2019|title = Internal Server Error}}</ref>
| weight             = 13.8 tonnes (13.8 tonnes loaded)
| length             = {{Convert|5.98|m|ftin|abbr=on}}
| part_length        = 
| width              = {{Convert|2.49|m|ftin|abbr=on}}
| height             = {{Convert|2.06|m|ftin|abbr=on}}
| diameter           = 
| crew               = 2
| passengers         = 10
| armour             = cage, ballistic blanket
Steel armour providing protection against 7.62 mm bullets, artillery shell splinters and anti-personnel mines <br />Upgrades with MEXAS composite armour and mine protection 
Protection for up to 12.7 mm for the front and turret
| primary_armament   = 1 × [[Engineering:AA-52 machine gun|AA52 7.62 mm machine gun]] or 1x [[Engineering:M2 Browning|M2 12.7mm machine gun]]
| secondary_armament = 
| engine             = Renault MIDS 062045
| engine_power       = 235 kW (320 hp)<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.renault-trucks-defense.com/description_2000831_0.html?lang=en |title=VAB Description |access-date=31 August 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071020044150/http://www.renault-trucks-defense.com/description_2000831_0.html?lang=en |archive-date=20 October 2007 |df=dmy-all }}</ref>
| transmission       = 
| fuel_capacity      = 310 litres<ref name="defense.gouv.fr" />
| pw_ratio           = 17 W/kg (23 hp/t)
| suspension         = wheeled
| clearance          = {{Convert|0.4|m|ftin|abbr=on}}<ref name="defense.gouv.fr" />
| vehicle_range      = {{Convert|1200|km|mi|abbr=on}}<ref name="defense.gouv.fr">[http://www.defense.gouv.fr/terre/decouverte/materiels/vehicules/vab VAB], Ministry of Defence</ref>
| speed              = {{Convert|110|km/h|mph|abbr=on}}<br />7.92 km/h in water<ref name="defense.gouv.fr" />
| guidance           = 
}}

The '''{{Lang|fr|Véhicule de l'Avant Blindé|italic=no}}''' or '''VAB''' (literally meaning "Armoured Forward Vehicle"; but more appropriately translated: "Armoured Vanguard Vehicle") is a French [[Engineering:Armoured personnel carrier|armoured personnel carrier]] and support vehicle designed and manufactured by [[Company:Renault Trucks#Military vehicles|Renault Trucks Defense]] (now called '''Arquus'''). It entered service in 1976 and around 5,000 were produced.<ref name="charsFrancais">{{cite web|url=http://www.chars-francais.net/new/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=50&Itemid=41|title=1976 RENAULT VAB VCI|access-date=2009-11-11|publisher=charfrancais.net|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110613022842/http://www.chars-francais.net/new/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=50&Itemid=41|archive-date=13 June 2011|df=dmy-all}}</ref> It has seen combat in various conflicts in Africa, Asia as well as Europe and has also been exported to more than 15 countries.

A polyvalent military vehicle, the VAB has more than thirty variants and sub-variants. Beyond their common primary role of transporting personnel and equipment in combat zones, some VAB are tailored for mechanized infantry combat, some fulfill the role of anti-tank missile launchers, some of self-propelled mortars, some are optimized for [[Social:Electronic warfare|electronic warfare]], others act as [[Engineering:Reconnaissance vehicle|reconnaissance]] or artillery observation vehicles, etc.

{{As of|2019}}, it still is the standard APC of the French Army but is gradually being replaced by its successors, the [[Engineering:VBMR Griffon|VBMR Griffon]] (introduced in 2018) and the latter's four-wheeled version, the [[Engineering:VBMR Griffon#The VBMR-L Serval|VBMR-L Serval]] (introduced in 2022).

== Design ==
The VAB was designed as a wheeled troop transporter, complementing the tracked [[Engineering:AMX-10P|AMX-10P]]. Specifications for the project called for an  NBC-proof, amphibious (Its propulsion in water is either by its wheels or twin water jets),<ref>{{Cite book|title=Tanks and armored fighting vehicles: visual encyclopedia.|publisher=Chartwell Books|year=2012|isbn=978-0-7858-2926-3|location=New York, N.Y.|pages=309|oclc=785874088}}</ref> lightly armoured vehicle to provide infantry with basic protection against shrapnel and light infantry weapons. These features were dictated by its possible usage  in the event of an all-out conventional war breaking out against the Warsaw Pact; in particular, the amphibious capabilities were needed to bridge the rivers in Eastern France and in Germany.<ref name ="la-bonne-surprise-du-vab">[http://secretdefense.blogs.liberation.fr/defense/2009/07/la-bonne-surprise-du-vab.html La bonne surprise du VAB face aux IED : avoir été amphibie...], Jean-Dominique Merchet, ''Secret Défense'', Libération</ref>

Companies [[Company:Panhard|Panhard]] and [[Company:Renault|Saviem/Renault]] answered the requirement, and the Renault prototype was selected in May 1974,<ref>[http://www.armyrecognition.com/europe/France/vehicules_a_roues/VAB/VAB_France_description.htm VAB Blindé de transport de troupe – Armoured personnel carrier], armyrecognition.com</ref> with 4,000 units ordered. The first delivery occurred in 1976, and production continued at a rate of 30 to 40 units a month.<ref name="charsFrancais" />

An armoured double-door at the rear allows access to the passenger compartment. Two inward-facing, foldable benches provide seating for 5 soldiers each. The crew enters the front compartment through two lateral hatches, the driver on the left and gunner on the right; two additional hatches in the roof give access to armaments and provide emergency exits. The front windows are bullet-proof and heated. All the windows can be further protected by armoured panels, which can be shut entirely or leaving a small observation slit. The engine is located behind the driver, while the right side of the vehicle is kept free, providing a passageway between the crew and passenger compartments.

<gallery>
File:Inside VAB 2007 07 14.jpg|rear doors and crew bench
File:French medical VAB dsc06841.jpg|forward compartment
</gallery>

With a modest 13-tonne mass, the VAB can easily be airlifted for deployment abroad.<ref name="defense.gouv.fr" />

The VAB's large wheels allow it to sustain up to 60% grades and road/rail canting of up to 30%.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.fas.org/man/dod-101/sys/land/row/vab.htm|title=Véhicule de l'Avant Blindé (VAB), Federation of American Scientists-FAS|website=fas.org|access-date=8 April 2018}}</ref>

From 1998, the French Army's VABs underwent three major overhauls:
* replacement of the manual gear by an automatic transmission (T1)
* replacement of the brakes and automatic tire pressurization (T2)
* armour upgrade (T3)

These overhauled vehicles are known as '''VAB Valorisé'''. From 1990, the '''VAB NG''' (new generation) with improved armour and new engine was offered. In the 2000s, Renault offered engine upgrades to any VABs in service from MAN diesel engines to Renault MIDS 06 20 45 turbocharged diesel engines by removing the torque converterer oil reservoir bracket, modifying the existing right-hand engine bracket and the installation of a cooling unit.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.renault-trucks-defense.com/mobility_2000935_0.html?lang=en|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20061019130008/http://www.renault-trucks-defense.com/mobility_2000935_0.html?lang=en|archive-date = 19 October 2006|title = Arquus &#124; Military Vehicles &#124; Armored Cars &#124; Armory Personnal Carrier &#124;}}</ref>

In 2003, [[Company:Renault Trucks#Military vehicles|Renault Trucks Défense]] took over marketing the VAB from GIAT. At ''Eurosatory 2010'', Renault unveiled the heavier '''VAB MkII''', with more internal space and Level 4 protection.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.defense-aerospace.com/articles-view/release/3/115712/renault-trucks-launches-vab-mk.-ii.html|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20191015103516/http://www.defense-aerospace.com/articles-view/release/3/115712/renault-trucks-launches-vab-mk.-ii.html|archive-date = 15 October 2019|title = Launch of the New VAB Mark II and Presents the Development of Its SHERPA Range at Eurosatory 2010 (Stand D390 – Outdoor)}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.armyrecognition.com/french_army_france_wheeled_armoured_vehicle_uk/vab_mk_mark_2_multirole_armoured_vehicle_technical_data_sheet_specifications_information_description.html|title=VAB Mk 2 multirole armoured vehicle technical data sheet specifications information description|website=www.armyrecognition.com|date=7 January 2011 }}</ref> The MkII version was also shown in the BRIDEX 2011 convention.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.armyrecognition.com/bridex_2011_daily_news_actualites_pictures_video/renault_trucks_defense_last_range_of_wheeled_armoured_with_vab_mark_ii_and_sherpa_at_bridex_2011.html|title=Renault Trucks Defense last range of wheeled armoured with VAB Mark II and Sherpa at BRIDEX 2011|website=www.armyrecognition.com}}</ref>

In ''Eurosatory 2012''; the '''VAB MkIII''' was presented publicly, being a new vehicle with better protection against IEDs and anti-vehicle mines<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.armyrecognition.com/french_army_france_wheeled_armoured_vehicle_uk/vab_mark_mk_3_mk3_wheeled_armoured_vehicle_personnel_carrier_technical_data_sheet_specifications.html|title=VAB Mark Mk 3 Mk3 wheeled armoured vehicle personnel carrier technical data sheet specifications – French army france wheeled armoured vehicle UK – French army military equipment vehicle UK|last=Administrator|website=www.armyrecognition.com|access-date=8 April 2018}}</ref> up to STANAG Level 4 protection.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.janes.com/article/49237/new-vab-looks-for-export-sales-idx15d1 |title=New VAB looks for export sales &#91;IDX15D1&#93; - IHS Jane's 360 |website=www.janes.com |access-date=12 January 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150630105804/https://www.janes.com/article/49237/new-vab-looks-for-export-sales-idx15d1 |archive-date=30 June 2015 }}</ref> Armored plating against RPG rockets is made in collaboration with Plasan.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://armadainternational.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/ARM_COM_1310_11_IFV-APC.pdf |title=Infantry Fighting Vehicles & Armoured Personnel Carriers |website=armadainternational.com |access-date=12 January 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191015034734/https://armadainternational.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/ARM_COM_1310_11_IFV-APC.pdf |archive-date=15 October 2019 }}</ref>

It's being marketed only in a 6x6 wheeled configuration with either a Renault MD7 engine developing 340&nbsp;hp or a Caterpillar C7 developing 370&nbsp;hp with automatic transmission.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.janes.com/article/86627/latest-vab-offers-more-of-everything-idex19d4/ |title=Latest VAB offers more of everything &#91;IDEX19D4&#93; &#124; Jane's 360 |website=www.janes.com |access-date=12 January 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191015034137/https://www.janes.com/article/86627/latest-vab-offers-more-of-everything-idex19d4/ |archive-date=15 October 2019 }}</ref>

=== Armour upgrade ===
[[File:French VAB in Afghanistan.JPG|thumb|A {{Lang|fr|Véhicule de l'Avant Blindé|italic=no}} armed with a 20&nbsp;mm gun turret, with added armour, deployed in Afghanistan on 19 August 2009]]
The upgrade of the VAB with MEXAS composite armour aimed at increasing from protection against light infantry weapons to protection against heavy machine guns, typically 12.7 mm projectiles. This increased the weight of the vehicles by about two tonnes, thereby losing its amphibious capabilities.

The amphibious shape of the hull, the relatively light weight and the armour upgrade seem to give the VAB strong resistance against mines. When exposed to an explosion from below, the VAB tends to be lifted in the air, allowing the force of the blast to disperse away from the vehicle. In particular, the hull shape and position of the wheels deflects the shock wave, helping maintain hull integrity.<ref name ="la-bonne-surprise-du-vab" />

=== Turrets ===
The heavy machine gun version of the {{Lang|fr|Véhicule de l'Avant Blindé|italic=no}} carries a [[Engineering:M2 Browning|M2HB 12.7mm machine gun]] in an open turret; the light version sports the [[Engineering:AA-52 machine gun|AA52 7.5mm machine gun]] in a similar arrangement.

The AA-52 is a 7.62mm GPMG mounted on the VAB has a length of 1,080&nbsp;mm and a barrel length of 600&nbsp;mm. Weighing 9,970&nbsp;kg, this machine gun operates through a lever-delayed blowback action mechanism, enabling a maximum rate of fire of 900 rounds per minute. Its effective firing range spans 600 meters, with a maximum firing range of 3,200 meters. The AA-52 is equipped with a belt feed system and features Iron Removable APX (SOM) telescopic sights and an infrared scope for precision targeting. The ammunition utilized includes rifle rounds with a caliber of 7.62, compatible with cartridges such as the 7.5×54mm French and the 7.62×51mm NATO. With a muzzle velocity of 830&nbsp;m/s, the AA-52 is capable of delivering sustained firepower with a basic load of 900 rounds.

[[File:VAB-mitrailleuse-IMG 1383.jpg|thumbnail|right|Detail of open machine gun turret]]
In both cases, the gunner's only protection from incoming fire is an armoured panel on the front and the two halves of the hatch door on the sides, giving little protection against indirect fire, surprise attacks and explosions<ref>Adjudant Laurent Pican (13 BCA) was killed by an explosion on 21 September 2007 [http://secretdefense.blogs.liberation.fr/defense/2008/01/faute-de-vab-ut.html]</ref> — or if the VAB rolls over.<ref>Soldier Melam Bouama was killed during the Uzbin valley ambush</ref> As of July 2007, all the personnel killed by mines aboard VABs had occupied the gunner position (though serious injuries were sometimes sustained by crewmen inside the hull).<ref name="la-bonne-surprise-du-vab" />

From 2007, the Army head of staff repeatedly requested that remotely operated 12.7mm turrets be fitted on these vehicles, as a crash requirement.<ref name="faute-de-vab-ut">{{cite web|url=http://secretdefense.blogs.liberation.fr/defense/2008/01/faute-de-vab-ut.html|title=Secret Défense – Faute de VAB, utilisons les VIB ! - Libération.fr|first= Jean-Dominique |last=Merchet|website=secretdefense.blogs.liberation.fr|access-date=8 April 2018}}</ref> A program was launched, scheduling turret and [[Social:Battle command|battle command]] upgrades for over 500 VABs, now labeled VAB TOP (''tourelle TéléOPérée''). In May 2008, Renault Trucks Defense signed an eight-year, 20 million euro contract with Kongsberg Gruppen of Norway, for equipping the VAB with subsidiary Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace's Protector Remote Weapon Station (RWS).<ref>[http://www.kongsberg.com/eng/kog/news/default.asp?id=33729 Weapon Control Systems framework agreement with France] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080529062339/http://www.kongsberg.com/eng/kog/news/default.asp?id=33729 |date=29 May 2008 }} – Kongsberg Gruppen press release, 2 May 2008</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.kongsberg.com/news-and-media/news-archive/2010/protector-contract-valued-at-mnok-140-with-renault-truck-defense/ |title=Protector Contract Valued at MNOK 140 with Renault Truck Defense |website=Kongsberg |access-date=12 January 2022}}</ref> Deliveries were scheduled from 2009 to 2016.
[[File:Quartier Général Sabatier - Véhicule 13.JPG|thumbnail|right|Equipped with Protector Remote Weapon Station]]

From early 2009 onwards, about 60 VAB-TOP were deployed in Afghanistan, seeing their first combat during the Battle of Alasay. Field experience shows a significant drop in ammunition consumption with the tele-operated turret, whose computer allows the operator to fire efficient single shots, rather than bursts.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.lepoint.fr/actualites-monde/2009-03-30/en-afghanistan-bapteme-du-feu-pour-le-vab-top/1648/0/330365|title=En Afghanistan, baptême du feu pour le VAB-TOP|first=Le Point|last=magazine|website=Le Point.fr|access-date=8 April 2018}}</ref> This partially alleviates concerns raised by the need to reload this turret from outside.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.lepoint.fr/actualites-monde/2009-01-24/destines-a-mieux-proteger-leurs-occupants-les-premiers-vab-top/1648/0/310201|title=Destinés à mieux protéger leurs occupants, les premiers VAB-TOP livrés en Afghanistan|first=Le Point|last=magazine|website=Le Point.fr|access-date=8 April 2018}}</ref>

=== Replacement ===
Replacement of the VAB is scheduled for around 2020. A diesel-electric vehicle stemming from the EBM10-EBM20 programme is due to be selected. The [[Engineering:Armoured Multirole Carrier|Armoured Multirole Carrier]] has been cited as a strong contender.

{{Clear}}

== Combat history ==
[[File:ISAF vehicles in Afghanistan.jpg|thumb|VAB deployed with the French contingent of the ISAF (right), next to a US MRAP, 7 August 2009.]]
VABs have been deployed in virtually all theatres where French infantry troops were present, notably Kuwait, Côte d'Ivoire, [[Place:Yugoslavia|Yugoslavia]], and Chad. French troops supporting ISAF in Afghanistan also use the VAB. During the Uzbin valley ambush, a VAB was hit by a rocket propelled grenade, with no injuries.  One soldier manning the rooftop machine gun of a VAB was later killed when the road collapsed under his vehicle and it rolled over.<ref>{{cite news |first=Jean-Dominique |last=Merchet |title=Afghanistan: le récit de l'embuscade |url=http://secretdefense.blogs.liberation.fr/defense/2008/08/afghanistan-le.html |publisher=Libération |date=2008-08-19 |access-date=2008-08-22 }}</ref> In March 2009, a VAB driver was killed by a rocket attack during the battle of Alasay.<ref>{{cite news |first=Caroline |last=Fontaine |title=Français au combat en Afghanistan |url=http://www.parismatch.com/Actu-Match/Monde/Actu/Chasseurs-alpins-bataille-en-Afghanistan-84184/ |publisher=Paris Match |date=17 March 2009|access-date=2009-05-04 }}</ref>

=== Africa ===
VABs belonging to the Royal Moroccan Army (FAR) have seen heavy combat during the conflict with Polisario rebels of the Western Sahara.

=== Middle East ===
A total of 95 VABs were delivered to the Lebanese Army between 1981 and 1984,<ref name="Sex 2021 p. 105">Sex & Bassel Abi-Chahine, ''Modern Conflicts 2 – The Lebanese Civil War, From 1975 to 1991 and Beyond'' (2021), p. 105.</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://armstrade.sipri.org/armstrade/page/trade_register.php|title=Trade Registers|website=armstrade.sipri.org|access-date=8 April 2018}}</ref> being extensively employed during the Lebanese Civil War, with several vehicles serving under the Shia Amal Movement militia banner after the Army's predominantly Shia 6th Infantry Brigade went over to their coreligionists in February 1984.<ref name="auto">Mahé, ''La Guerre Civile Libanaise, un chaos indescriptible (1975–1990)'', p. 79.</ref><ref name="auto2">Zaloga, ''Tank battles of the Mid-East Wars (2)'' (2003), pp. 53; 57-58.</ref><ref name="auto1">Kassis, ''Véhicules Militaires au Liban/Military Vehicles in Lebanon'' (2012), p. 21.</ref> After the end of the war in the 1990s, additional VABs were delivered to the Lebanese Internal Security Forces (ISF) for use in the escort and internal security roles.

=== Ukraine ===
At least 7 VAB vehicles were destroyed during the Russian invasion of Ukraine as of November 5, 2023. Further 2 were damaged and 4 were damaged and abandoned<ref>{{Cite web |last=Oryx |title=Attack On Europe: Documenting Ukrainian Equipment Losses During The Russian Invasion Of Ukraine |url=https://www.oryxspioenkop.com/2022/02/attack-on-europe-documenting-ukrainian.html |access-date=2023-10-22 |website=Oryx}}</ref>

== Variants ==
Variants may be 4×4 or 6×6 wheels, the 6×6 yielding a 10% increase in cost.<ref name="charsFrancais" /> The French military only uses 4-wheel versions, while export versions mainly are 6×6s.

The following VAB variants are/were made:<ref name="VAB Arquus"/><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.military-today.com/apc/vab.htm|title=VAB Armored Personnel Carrier|website=www.military-today.com}}</ref>

* '''VAB MK 3''', 6x6 APC version- A highly improved version of the VAB with better performance in terms of mobility protection in payload
* '''VAB VTT''' (''Véhicule Transport de Troupe'') – 4x4 APC version, crew of two and ten passengers and standard pintle mount for various compatible machine guns.
** '''VAB TOP''' (''tourelle TéléOPérée'') – VTT 4x4 fitted with a Kongsberg Protector (RWS) with 12.7mm machine gun and ceramic add-on armour.
** '''VAB AZURE''' (''Action en Zone URbaine'') – Urban warfare vehicle equipped with a dozer blade and with panoramic periscopes to observe and monitor.
** '''VAB ELI''' (''élément léger d'intervention'') – light recovery vehicle.
** '''VAB MILAN''' – French army variant of the VTT, fitted with a pintle mount for the MILAN system at the rear hull roof.
** '''VAB AT4CS''' – French army variant of the VTT, used by anti-tank teams armed with the AT4CS 84&nbsp;mm portable rocket launcher.
** '''VAB Eryx''' – French army variant of the VTT, used by anti-tank teams armed with the [[Engineering:Eryx (missile)|Eryx]] system.
* '''VAB RATAC''' – Artillery target acquisition vehicle, carries a DR-PC 1a RATAC [[Engineering:Doppler radar|doppler radar]] with a range of 20&nbsp;km.
* '''VAB RASIT''' – Reconnaissance vehicle, carries the DR-PT 2a RASIT ground surveillance radar.
* '''VAB PC''' (''Poste de Commandement'') – Command vehicle with a crew of 6 and equipped with map tables and additional signals equipment.
** '''VAB SIR''' (''Système d'Information Régimentaire'') – Digital regimental C4ISTAR information system.
* '''VAB Bromure''' – [[Social:Electronic warfare|Electronic warfare]] vehicle.
* '''VAB Echelon''' – Maintenance and repair vehicle. Equipped with hydraulic jib crane for swapping power pack and winches for pulling VABs free of obstacles.
* '''VAB Génie''' – Engineering vehicle that can be fitted with a light obstacle clearing blade or can be used to tow a trailer with mine-clearing charges.
* '''VAB SAN''' (''sanitaire'') – Armoured ambulance with room for 5 stretchers or 10 sitting passengers.
* '''VAB Reco''' – NBC reconnaissance vehicle.
* '''VAB ATLAS''' (''Automatisation des Tirs et Liaisons Sol-sol pour l'artillerie'') – Artillery fire command and control vehicle, successor of the VAB ATILA.
* '''VAB SGEA''' (''Système de Guerre Électronique de l'Avant'') – Electronic warfare variant.
* '''VAB Rapsodie''' (''Radar d'Acquisition Polyvalent pour la Surveillance et l'Observation Destiné à l'Interarmes'') – Reconnaissance vehicle with radar.
* '''VBR''' (''Véhicule Blindé de Reconnaissance'') – Similar to VIB but used by ''Génie de l'Air'' and fitted with a Capre turret with 20&nbsp;mm F2 gun.
[[File:VAB Mephisto.JPEG|thumb|Mephisto anti-tank missile variant]]
* '''VCAC "Mephisto"''' (''Véhicule de Combat Anti-Char'') – Anti-tank vehicle, carries the Euromissile Mephisto system with four ready-to-fire HOT anti-tank missiles and eight more in reserve.      They both fire the French HOT (Haut subsonique Optiquement Téléguidé Tiré d’un Tube) Anti-Tank Missile. The HOT is a wire-guided missile with semi-automatic command-to-line-of-sight (SACLOS) guidance. It's been around since the 1970s and the latest version is the HOT-3.
* '''VCI T.20/13''' (''Véhicule de Combat de l'Infanterie'') – VAB equipped with a turret mounted 20&nbsp;mm gun recovered from old [[Engineering:AMX-VCI|AMX-VCI]]s and refurbished and intended for fire support and for counter sniping.
[[File:54RA-IMG 9125.jpg|thumb|VIB 20&nbsp;mm turret variant]]
* '''VIB''' (''Véhicule d'Intervention sur Base'') – IFV version fitted with the Toucan system, a tele-operated turret fitted with a 20&nbsp;mm cannon and a AA52 7.62&nbsp;mm machine-gun. Used by the {{wipe|French Air Force}} for airfield defence.<ref name="faute-de-vab-ut" />
* '''VIT''' (''Véhicule d'Implantation Topographique'') – Vehicle for topographic teams of field artillery units.
[[File:VAB VOA 012 FR.JPG|thumb|VOA artillery spotting variant]]
* '''VOA''' (''Véhicule d'Observation d'Artillerie'') – Artillery observation vehicle, fitted with a turret with day/night observation devices, laser range finder etc. This version is normally found in units equipped with the TR F1 towed 155&nbsp;mm howitzer. The '''VAB OBS''' is an improved version.
* '''VTM 120''' (''Véhicule Tracteur de Mortier'') – Mortar towing vehicle, can carry 70 bombs for the Thomson-Brandt MO-120 mortar.
* '''VAB 2R2M''' — self-propelled mortar 120&nbsp;mm.
* [[Engineering:VBC-90|VBC-90]]: Armoured car variant with a 90&nbsp;mm gun in a turret. In service with the Mobile Gendarmerie until 2004.
* '''VAB Ultima''' - Upgrades to the VAB against IEDs and land mines with added blast seats not fixed to the floor, Sagem SITEL comm equipment and FELIN battery chargers.<ref name="VABU">{{Cite web|url=https://www.armyrecognition.com/december_2011_army_military_defence_news_uk/new_vab_ultima_wheeled_armoured_personnel_carrier_adapted_for_french_felin_future_soldier_1512113.html|title=new VAB Ultima wheeled armoured personnel carrier adapted for French Felin Future soldier|website=www.armyrecognition.com}}</ref> Equipped with Protector RCWS for either a machine gun or AGL.<ref name="VABU"/>
* '''VAB SAN''' (Sanitaire - Sanitary) CIED (Counter-IED) - Upgrades to the VAB for ambulance purposes for French forces operating in the Sahel as jihadi forces tend to target them with explosives and IEDs.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.armyrecognition.com/defense_news_march_2021_global_security_army_industry/arquus_delivers_40_modernized_sanitary_vab_san_cied_armored_vehicles_to_french_army.html|title=ARQUUS delivers 40 modernized sanitary VAB SAN CIED armored vehicles to French Army|website=www.armyrecognition.com}}</ref>

Versions reserved for export:
* '''VAB 4x4 VCI T.20''' (''Véhicule de Combat de l'Infanterie'') – Export version of the VCI T.20/13, fitted with a one-man T.20 turret. In service with Cyprus.
* '''VAB 6x6 ECH''' (''ECHelon'') – Maintenance vehicle (with crane).
* '''VAB 6x6 VCI Toucan''' (''Véhicule de Combat de l'Infanterie'') – Similar to the VCI T.20/13 but based on the VAB 6x6.
* '''VAB 6x6 VPM 81''' (''Véhicule Porte-Mortier'') – Mortar carrier with an 81&nbsp;mm mortar firing through a roof opening. In service with Oman.
* '''VAB 6x6 VDAA TA20''' (''Véhicule de Défense AntiAérienne'') – Low-altitude air-defence vehicle, armed with a double 20&nbsp;mm gun in a TA 20 turret. In service with Oman, Morocco and the Central African Republic.
* '''VCAC 6x6 UTM800''' – Anti-tank vehicle, carries the Euromissile UTM800 turret, with four ready-to-launch HOT missiles, and 16 more in reserve. In service with Qatar and Cyprus.
*  '''VBMO''' (''Véhicule Blindé de Maintien de l'Ordre'') – Police version for crowd control, fitted with a light dozer blade and optionally a TOI turret.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.renault-trucks-defense.com/J46PAYS/web/ImageServlet?imageCode=120076&codeSite=J46RTDEFENSE&etat=1 |title=Arquus &#124; 1er Fournisseur en Véhicules Terrestres de l'Armée Française |website=www.renault-trucks-defense.com |access-date=12 January 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071020044043/http://www.renault-trucks-defense.com/J46PAYS/web/ImageServlet?imageCode=120076&codeSite=J46RTDEFENSE&etat=1 |archive-date=20 October 2007 }}</ref> In service with Oman, Morocco and Abu Dhabi.
* '''VDAA''' (''Véhicule d'Auto-Defense Antiaèrienne'') - Anti-aircraft version with turret carrying two 20&nbsp;mm cannon. Nine purchased by Oman National Guard.<ref>{{harvnb|Cullen|Foss|1992|p=66}}</ref>
* '''VDAA SANTAL''' (''Véhicule de Défense Anti-Aérienne, Systeme Anti-aerien Autonome Leger'') - Anti-aircraft version using the SANTAL turret system, fitted with six [[Engineering:Mistral (missile)|Mistral]] short-range suface-to-air missiles and the Rodeo-2 radar.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Anti-aircraft missile system "SANTAL" {{!}} Missilery.info |url=https://en.missilery.info/missile/mistral/santal |access-date=2023-09-02 |website=en.missilery.info}}</ref>

The French Gendarmerie also procured a small batch (about twenty) of up-armoured VABs, for use in Afghanistan. These vehicles have now (2018) been redeployed either to Versailles-Satory (near Paris) or to French New Caledonia.

Foreign-made versions:

* '''MACK Lakota''': A variant of the VAB Mark III, most of its parts made in America by Mack Defense via JWF Defense Systems in 6x6 and 8x8 variants, which was announced in June 2016.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.mackdefense.com/mack-defense-partners-with-jwf-in-johnstown-pa-for-lakota-production/ | title=Mack Defense partners with JWF in Johnstown, PA for Lakota production » Mack Defense | date=6 June 2016 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.armyrecognition.com/us_army_wheeled_and_armoured_vehicle_uk/lakota_6x6_armoured_vehicle_personnel_carrier_technical_data_sheet_specifications_pictures_video_11502174.html|title=Lakota 6x6 armoured vehicle personnel carrier technical data sheet specifications pictures video 11502174|last=Administrator|website=www.armyrecognition.com|date=15 February 2017 |access-date=8 April 2018}}</ref> It was first shown publicly in AUSA 2014 and AUSA 2015.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.armyrecognition.com/ausa_2014_show_daily_news_coverage_report/mack_defense_to_present_sherpa_light_scout_and_armoured_wheeled_loader_l_180_at_ausa_2014_0610145.html|title=Mack Defense to present Sherpa Light Scout and Armoured Wheeled Loader L 180 at AUSA 2014 0610145|last=Administrator|website=www.armyrecognition.com|access-date=8 April 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.janes.com/article/55513/ausa-2015-mack-defense-sherpa-light-and-lakota|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151116083411/http://www.janes.com/article/55513/ausa-2015-mack-defense-sherpa-light-and-lakota|archive-date=16 November 2015|title=AUSA 2015: Mack Defense – Sherpa Light and Lakota – IHS Jane's 360|date=16 November 2015|access-date=8 April 2018}}</ref> Its hull is also assembled in America.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.upi.com/Defense-News/2016/06/06/Mack-Defense-JWF-team-for-Lakota-armored-vehicle-production/4201465222105/|title=Mack Defense, JWF team for Lakota armored vehicle production|website=upi.com|access-date=8 April 2018}}</ref> It was sold in 2016 to an unnamed customer in the Middle East.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.armyrecognition.com/ausa_2016_show_daily_news_tv_coverage_report/first_foreign_sale_for_the_mack_defense_lakota_6x6_armoured_personnel_carrier_10310164.html|title=First foreign sale for the MACK Defense Lakota 6x6 armoured personnel carrier 10310164 – AUSA 2016 Show Daily News TV Coverage Report – Defence security military exhibition 2016 daily news category|last=Administrator|website=www.armyrecognition.com|access-date=8 April 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.janes.com/article/67982/hard-hitting-vab-idex17d3 |title=Hard-hitting VAB &#91;IDEX17D3&#93; &#124; IHS Jane's 360 |website=www.janes.com |access-date=12 January 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170307054958/https://www.janes.com/article/67982/hard-hitting-vab-idex17d3 |archive-date=7 March 2017 }}</ref>

== Operators ==
[[File:VAB operators.png|thumb|300px|Map of VAB operators in blue]]

As of 2019, it's known that the VAB is exported to more than 40 countries.<ref name="JNS"/>

<!--READ FIRST: This section is for cited entries only. Please do not add entries into this list without a citation from a reliable source. All entries without a citation will be removed. Thank you.-->

=== Current operators ===
* {{FRA}}:
** French Army: 3,900 VAB in 35 different versions<ref name="la-bonne-surprise-du-vab" />
** French Air Force (VIB, ''véhicule blindé d'intervention'', or ''véhicule d'intervention sur base'')
* {{BEN}}: Beninese military received 8 out of 15 VABs on March 15, 2023.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.armyrecognition.com/defense_news_march_2023_global_security_army_industry/army_of_benin_receives_vab_armored_vehicles_from_france.html | title=Army of Benin receives VAB armored vehicles from France &#124; Defense News March 2023 Global Security army industry &#124; Defense Security global news industry army year 2023 &#124; Archive News year }}</ref>
* {{BRU}}: To be phased out once Pindad Anoas are purchased instead of originally contracting Pindad to retrofit them.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.jabarprov.go.id/En/index.php/news/5678/2018/05/04/Brunei-Buy-Combat-Vehicles-from-Pindad|title=Brunei Buy Combat Vehicles from Pindad|first=Pemerintah Provinsi Jawa|last=Barat|website=www.jabarprov.go.id}}</ref>
* {{CAF}}: 10{{sfn|The Military Balance 2021|p=456}}
* {{CHA}}: 25;{{sfn|The Military Balance 2021|p=457}} around 40 VABs given by the French Army in 2008<ref>{{cite web|title=Quelques détails sur l'armée tchadienne…|date=21 January 2013 |website=forcesoperations.com|url=http://forcesoperations.com/quelques-details-sur-larmee-tchadienne/|language=fr}}</ref>
* {{CYP}}: A total of 147<ref name="VAB Arquus">{{Cite web|url=https://www.armyrecognition.com/french_army_france_wheeled_armoured_vehicle_uk/vab_renault_wheeled_armoured_vehicle_personnel_carrier_technical_data_sheet_specifications_pictures.html|title=VAB ARQUUS 4x4 wheeled APC armored vehicle personnel carrier &#124; French army france wheeled armoured vehicle|website=www.armyrecognition.com|date=15 March 2023 }}</ref>
* {{GAB}}: 5{{sfn|The Military Balance 2021|p=467}}
* {{IDN}}<ref name="VAB Arquus"/>
* {{ITA}}<ref name="VAB Arquus"/> 15 vehicles CBRN variant.
* {{CIV}}: 13{{sfn|The Military Balance 2021|p=459}}
* {{KUW}}<ref name="VAB Arquus"/>
* {{LBN}}: Lebanese Armed Forces, Internal Security Forces (Police)<ref name="auto2" /><ref name="auto1" /><ref name="Sex 2021 p. 105"/> 
* {{MUS}}
* {{MAR}}: 400 vehicles<ref name="charsFrancais" />
* {{OMA}}<ref name="VAB Arquus"/>
* {{QAT}}
* {{KSA}}: Announced that 100 VAB Mk 3s would be taken to service in 2016, which was supposed to be supplied to Lebanon.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.janes.com/article/62008/saudi-arabia-to-receive-french-armoured-vehicles-ordered-for-lebanon |title=Saudi Arabia to receive French armoured vehicles ordered for Lebanon &#124; IHS Jane's 360 |website=www.janes.com |access-date=12 January 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160709173332/https://www.janes.com/article/62008/saudi-arabia-to-receive-french-armoured-vehicles-ordered-for-lebanon |archive-date=9 July 2016 }}</ref>
* {{UAE}}<ref name="VAB Arquus"/>
* {{UKR}}: French Ministry of Armed Forces announced in June 2022 that "significant quantities" of armed VAB will be delivered to Ukraine as part of France's military aid in the context of 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Mawad |first=Dalal |date=28 June 2022 |title=France to send Ukraine "significant quantities" of armored personnel carriers |url=https://edition.cnn.com/europe/live-news/russia-ukraine-war-news-06-28-22/h_7ea43ee9673957a79390ce311f31861b |website=CNN}}</ref>

=== Former operators ===
* [[File:Flag of the Amal Movement.svg|22px]] Amal Movement militia (1984–1990)<ref name="auto" />
* {{GEO}}: the Georgian security company of Camp Warehouse, as part of the ISAF, used VAB loaned by the French Army in the Kabul area in 2009–2011.<ref>{{cite web|title=8e RA: formation de soldats géorgiens au camp de Suippes|url=https://www.defense.gouv.fr/actualites/operations/8e-ra-formation-de-soldats-georgiens-au-camp-de-suippes|date=15 February 2011|language=fr|website=defense.gouv.fr}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|language=fr|title=10/06/10 - Afghanistan: une unité géorgienne veille sur le camp de Warehouse (vidéo)|url=https://www.defense.gouv.fr/fre/operations/actualites2/10-06-10-afghanistan-une-unite-georgienne-veille-sur-le-camp-de-warehouse-video|date=10 June 2010|website=defense.gouv.fr}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=25/11/09 - Afghanistan: à Warehouse, les Géorgiens succèdent aux Français (vidéo)|date=25 November 2009|url=https://www.defense.gouv.fr/fre/operations/actualites2/25-11-09-afghanistan-a-warehouse-les-georgiens-succedent-aux-francais-video|language=fr|website=defense.gouv.fr}}</ref>

== Gallery ==
<gallery>
File:French medical VAB dsc06842.jpg|Medical evacuation version
File:French medical VAB dsc06846.jpg|Inside view of the medical evacuation version
File:VAB-IMG 1382.jpg|Version with 12.7&nbsp;mm machine gun
File:French VAB propeller dsc06844.jpg|Detail of Pod Water Jet for amphibious operation
File:MACK Lakota at IDEX 2017.jpg|MACK Lakota at IDEX 2017
File:VAB, Armée de Terre (14 juillet 2021) (2).jpg|French Army VAB in the new camouflage, spotted after the Bastille Day parade (July 14, 2021)
File:Royal Brunei Land Force convoy 10 July 2022 02.jpg|VAB in service with the Royal Brunei Land Forces (RBLF) in 2022
File:Cypriot VAB.jpg|[[Engineering:Véhicule de l'Avant Blindé#Variants|VAB-VCACs]] of the Cypriot National Guard during a parade in [[Place:Nicosia|Nicosia]].
</gallery>

== See also ==
===Comparable vehicles===
* WZ551
* [[Engineering:Anoa (armoured personnel carrier)|Anoa (armoured personnel carrier)]]
* [[Engineering:Patria Pasi|Patria Pasi]]
* [[Engineering:TPz Fuchs|TPz Fuchs]]

== Notes ==
{{reflist|2}}

== References ==
{{refbegin|30em}}
* {{cite book |editor1-last=Cullen |editor1-first=Tony |editor2-last=Foss |editor2-first=Christopher F. |title=Jane's Land-Based Air Defence 1992–93 |year=1992 |edition=5th |location=Coulsdon, UK |publisher=Jane's Data Division |isbn=0-7106-0979-5}}
* {{cite book|last=Foss |first=Christopher F. |title=Jane's Tank & Combat Vehicle recognition guide |publisher=HarperCollins |publication-place=London |date=2002 |isbn=0-00-712759-6}}
* {{cite book|title=The Military Balance 2021|date=February 2021|volume=121|isbn=978-1-032-01227-8|publisher=Routledge|ref={{harvid|The Military Balance 2021}}|author=International Institute for Strategic Studies|}}
* {{cite book|last=Kassis |first=Samer |title=Véhicules Militaires au Liban 1975–1981 |trans-title=Military Vehicles in Lebanon 1975-1981 |language=fr |publisher=Trebia Publishing |publication-place=Chyah |date=2012 |isbn=978-9953-0-2372-4}}
* {{cite magazine|last=Mahé |first=Yann |title=La Guerre Civile Libanaise, un chaos indescriptible (1975–1990) |journal=Trucks & Tanks Magazine |number=41 |date=January–February 2014 |publisher=Caraktère |publication-place=Aix-en-Provence |pages=78–81 |issn=1957-4193| language=fr}}
* {{cite book|last1=Sex |first1=Zachary |last2=Abi-Chahine |first2=Bassel |title=Modern Conflicts 2 – The Lebanese Civil War, From 1975 to 1991 and Beyond |series=Modern Conflicts Profile Guide |volume=II |publisher=AK Interactive |date=2021 |id={{EAN|8435568306073}}}}
* {{cite book|last=Zaloga |first=Steven J. |title=Tank battles of the Mid-East Wars (2): The wars of 1973 to the present |publisher=Concord Publications |publication-place=Hong Kong |date=2003 |isbn=962-361-613-9 |url=https://archive.org/details/tankbattlesmidea00zalo_215}}
{{refend}}

== External links ==

* {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071011194630/http://www.renault-trucks-defense.com/vab_2000816_0.html?lang=en  |date=2007-10-11 |title=VAB }}
* {{cite web |url=http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/library/policy/army/accp/in0535/ch2.htm |title=Vehicle recognition (friendly armor): Light armored vehicle identification |access-date=2008-01-11 |publisher=GlobalSecurity.org}}


{{DEFAULTSORT:Vehicule De L'avant Blinde}}
[[Category:Wheeled armoured personnel carriers]]
[[Category:Six-wheeled vehicles]]

{{Sourceattribution|Véhicule de l'Avant Blindé}}