Renault Trucks Defense/Panhard continue VBL upgrade project

PARIS, July 9 (UPI) -- The French Army's VBL light armored trucks are to be upgraded by Renault Trucks Defense/Panhard to extend their operational life for 15 years.

The upgrade design contract was issued by the French defense procurement agency, Direction Générale de l'Armement. The value of the award, however, was not disclosed.

Design work for the modernization will focus on mobility and include the VBL's engine, gearbox, suspension and braking system, Renault said.

Renault/Panhard delivered a demonstrator vehicle to the French Army late last year for assessment. Three other vehicles are due to be delivered at the end of 2015 for trials in the French armed forces.

The Panhard production plant in Marolles-en-Hurepoix, as the original manufacturer of the VBL, is responsible for preparing the delivery of pre-production vehicles.

More than 2,300 VBL 4x4s have been built since the 1980s.

Renault Trucks Defense/Panhard is a subsidiary of the Volvo Group of Sweden.