Leonardo, through the CIO Consortium, has signed an initial serial-production contract with the Brazilian Army for seven Centauro II 8×8 wheeled tank destroyers equipped with 120mm smoothbore cannons.
The agreement covers the first seven vehicles of a broader 98-unit program, with deliveries scheduled in annual batches. The contract follows the successful completion of operational testing and delivery of the two vehicles included in the initial evaluation batch.
Selected in 2022 under Brazil’s Viatura Blindada de Combate de Cavalaria Sobre Rodas program, the Italian-built Centauro II will replace the Brazilian Army’s aging 6×6 Cascavel vehicles in cavalry and infantry units. The platform was selected over General Dynamics’ LAV 700 and China’s ST1-BR.
Centauro II Capabilities
Equipped with the HITFACT MkII turret, a 720-hp powerplant, and an H-drive transmission, the Centauro II combines the firepower of a modern main battle tank with the mobility and strategic range of a wheeled combat vehicle.
Its fully digital and interoperable architecture integrates advanced observation, fire-control, communications, crew-support, and protection systems. The digital fire-control system features thermal imaging cameras, a laser rangefinder, and weapon stabilization.
The Centauro II is currently the only operational wheeled combat vehicle equipped with a 120mm cannon. It can engage targets at ranges of up to 5 kilometers (3 miles), reach a maximum speed of 105 kilometers (65 miles) per hour, and operate over distances of up to 800 kilometers (497 miles).
Designed for a broad range of missions, including national security, peacekeeping, and support operations, the Centauro II has also been ordered by the Italian Army, which has procured 150 vehicles.
