KNDS CEO Discusses Strategic Partnership with Metlen and Project Progress

A significant milestone in European industrial and defense cooperation was marked by the exclusive partnership between Metlen and KNDS France (KNDS) for producing the modern French 8×8 armored fighting vehicle, named VBCI PHILOCTETES. The aim of this strategic agreement is to meet the operational needs of the Greek Army for a large number of 8×8 armored vehicles, as well as those of other European armed forces. The VBCI PHILOCTETES represents an upgraded version of the 8×8 armored fighting vehicle serving the French army’s needs for over a decade in foreign missions, continuously being enhanced. It features a remote-controlled 40mm turret equivalent to that of the JAGUAR, as well as MMP anti-tank missile launchers, ensuring effective coverage against a wide range of threats from UAVs and aerial vehicles to light vehicles and main battle tanks. During a joint event at DEFEA 2025, Nicolas Chamussy, CEO of KNDS France, highlighted that the vehicle is a product of French defense industry excellence. When questioned about production locations, Chamussy clarified that nearly all units will be completed in Greece, emphasizing that ‘they will not be manufactured in France but in Greece.’ Furthermore, he noted that 30% of the project’s total value will occur in Greece once the program reaches steady production, aiming primarily at Greece with potential exports. This collaboration strengthens METLEN’s role in European defense developments, marking a truly European TOMA. Local production significance aligns with the European defense restructuring initiative ReArm, representing an overall package of €800 billion. Vivian Bouzali, Chief Corporate Affairs and Communications Officer of METLEN, stated that their partnership with KNDS France goes beyond mere supply and integration, focusing on critical technology transfer, production in Greece, and trust. Investments by Metlen in Volos span 60 acres and will soon include five specialized facilities, evolving into a fully specialized production unit since its establishment in 1963.