France has awarded Soframe a contract to supply new Heavy Recovery Vehicles (HRVs) for the French Army, strengthening the force’s ability to recover damaged or immobilized military equipment during combat operations. The procurement is intended to modernize battlefield support assets and improve operational resilience across frontline units.
The contract follows a competitive tender launched in the spring of 2025 to address increasing demand for modern, protected recovery platforms. Under the framework agreement, Soframe will initially deliver 20 vehicles, with the first five scheduled for delivery by 2027. The deal also includes options for up to 80 additional platforms, allowing the French Army to expand its recovery fleet in line with evolving operational requirements.
Soframe’s Heavy Recovery Vehicle is based on an 8×8 Protected Recovery Vehicle design already in service with the Belgian Armed Forces, reflecting closer defense cooperation and interoperability between France and Belgium. The program also involves several European industrial partners, including Jigé International, FN Herstal, and Daimler Trucks, underscoring a multinational approach to military vehicle production.
The vehicle is expected to be approximately 10 meters long and may feature a protected chassis offering resistance against mines, ballistic threats, and improvised explosive devices. Powered by a 476-horsepower engine with an automatic transmission, it will reach speeds of up to 90 kilometers per hour and operate over a range of around 800 kilometers. Operated by a crew of three, the platform will include main and self-recovery winches and an underlift system capable of handling loads between 10 and 14 tons.
