Luxembourg and Belgium have finalized a landmark joint defense procurement agreement to acquire a fleet of French-built armored vehicles for a new binational reconnaissance unit, reinforcing NATO interoperability and European defense cooperation. According to a Luxembourg government statement issued on December 17, 2025, the deal represents one of the largest military acquisitions in Luxembourg’s history and marks a significant milestone in the two countries’ efforts to integrate their land forces under NATO’s Defense Planning Process (NDPP).
The agreement covers the purchase of 54 armored vehicles, including 38 Jaguar EBRC reconnaissance combat vehicles and 16 Griffon VBMR multi-role armored vehicles. Both platforms are products of France’s Scorpion modernization program and were developed by the Nexter–Thales–Arquus consortium. Designed for modern hybrid warfare, the vehicles emphasize high mobility, advanced protection, and digital battlefield connectivity, enabling seamless operations within NATO and EU force structures.
The Jaguar EBRC, a 6×6 wheeled armored vehicle weighing approximately 25 tons, is configured for high-intensity reconnaissance and combat missions. Operated by a three-person crew, it is armed with a 40mm CTA cannon, MMP anti-tank guided missiles, and a remotely operated 7.62mm machine gun, supported by advanced sensors and networked command systems. The Griffon VBMRs, delivered in multiple variants for command, logistics, and support roles, feature modular weapon stations and enhanced survivability against asymmetric threats. Together, the vehicles will equip the Binational Battalion of Luxembourg Reconnaissance Guides-Chasseurs, which is expected to reach full operational readiness by 2030 in line with NATO capability targets.
