Luxembourg and Belgium have completed a joint defence procurement to acquire 54 French-built armoured vehicles for a newly formed binational reconnaissance unit, reinforcing NATO force integration and advancing European defence cooperation.
According to a Luxembourg Government press release dated 17 December 2025, Luxembourg has concluded one of the largest defence acquisitions in its history through an agreement with Belgium covering 54 modern armoured vehicles. The platforms will equip a new medium reconnaissance combat battalion established under NATO’s Defence Planning Process, with the objective of strengthening operational integration between the two neighbouring allies.
The procurement covers 38 Jaguar EBRC (Engin Blindé de Reconnaissance et de Combat) vehicles and 16 Griffon VBMR (Véhicule Blindé Multi-Rôles) vehicles. Both systems were developed under France’s Scorpion modernisation programme by the Nexter–Thales–Arquus consortium and are intended to address the requirements of contemporary hybrid warfare through enhanced mobility, protection, and digital connectivity.
The Jaguar is a 25-ton, 6×6 wheeled reconnaissance and combat vehicle operated by a three-member crew. It is armed with a CTA40 40 mm cannon, twin MMP anti-tank guided missile launchers, and a remotely operated 7.62 mm machine gun. Equipped with advanced sensors, protection systems, and networked battlefield management, the platform is optimised for high-intensity reconnaissance and mobile fire support missions.
The 16 Griffon VBMR vehicles will be delivered in several configurations to support command, logistics, and combat support functions. Weighing 24.5 tons and sharing a 6×6 chassis layout, the Griffon carries a three-person crew and mounts modular remote weapon stations capable of integrating 7.62 mm or 12.7 mm machine guns. Designed for survivability in asymmetric environments, the vehicle maintains full interoperability with NATO and EU ground forces.
This acquisition supports Luxembourg and Belgium’s plan to field a medium-weight, combat-ready reconnaissance battalion by 2030. Officially designated the Binational Battalion of Luxembourg Reconnaissance Guides-Chasseurs, the unit responds directly to NATO capability targets set through the Defence Planning Process, which aligns national force development with Alliance-wide defence priorities amid a deteriorating security environment.
