Iveco–Oto Melara will introduce new Centauro AIFV/OWS 30 or also named Freccia IFV with HITFIST OWS 30mm turret at at Eurosatory 2016 (13-17 June, Paris, France).

The Centauro Armoured Infantry Fighting Vehicle “Freccia” is an 8×8 wheeled vehicle which combines the proven and highly reliable drive train of the Centauro Family with a hull especially designed to ensure maximum crew survivability. The inner volume exceeding 12m³ can accommodate the driver, a two man turret (in the manned version with basket or overhead unmanned) and 8 fully equipped dismounts.

Hydraulically operated, the low angle rear ramp allows particular ease of access and dismount capability with special consideration given to troops laden with heavy kit.

The Centauro AIFV “Freccia” design is focused on providing the infantry with the firepower and protection they need to undertake their mission effectively, be it in war or peacekeeping.

The adoption of the innovative “H shaped” transmission with twin side mounted drive shafts in place of the more traditional single central shaft, provides the vehicle with a low silhouette and an inherently more stealthy profile than others in its class. As with all the vehicles belonging to the Centauro family, the Centauro AIFV has outstanding tactical mobility, based on its powerful Iveco engine driving and automatic gearbox and enhanced by 3-axle steering.

Independent hydropneumatic MacPherson suspensions on each wheel provide exceptional ride quality, also derived from long suspension travel. The vehicle is equipped with full command, control and communication system and is the core platform of the netcentric scenario. The overhead version is equipped with the HITFIST OWS 30mm turret, a remotely operated weapon station incorporating the latest technologies in the fields of electronics, signature and Man Machine Interface (MMI).

A best in class in terms of lethality, survivability and fightability. The weapon station is easily installable, without hull penetration, on any tracked and wheeled platform and it is ready to fire without preparation.

The main armament consists of the ATK Mk44 30mm chain gun, electrically controlled in elevation, traversing and firing operations. As an option the main armament can also be completed by the introduction of two Anti Tank missile launchers, side mounted.

The weapon station turret is fitted for a secondary armament, a 7,62mm machine gun coaxially mounted.