China introduces augmented reality headsets in new armored vehicles for 360-degree battlefield view

AR headsets change the perception of combat from inside armored vehicles

China is actively developing a new generation of armored vehicles that integrate advanced augmented reality (AR) technologies. The goal is to dramatically increase the situational awareness of the crew and the effectiveness of combat. The key element is the AR headset, which projects a full view of the environment onto a transparent display, allowing drivers and commanders to "see through" their car's armor.

This is a breakthrough in the design of combat platforms, where protection no longer means loss of visibility.

How the "see through armor" system works

Augmented reality headsets are connected to a network of external cameras and sensors installed around the perimeter of a tank or infantry fighting vehicle. All visual information is combined into a single panorama displayed on the headset's transparent screen. The user sees the real environment, on top of which digital data is superimposed: target markers, tactical designations, terrain data, vehicle condition and the position of the allied forces.

This approach eliminates blind spots and significantly reduces the response time to threats.

Integration with cameras and sensors in real time

The system operates in real time using high-speed internal networks and on-board data processing. The cameras provide high-resolution video even in low-light or smoke conditions. Data from thermal imagers, radars and electronic control systems are also integrated into the AR interface, forming a complete picture of the situation.

If one of the cameras is damaged, the system automatically switches to backup sources, ensuring continuous viewing.

Advantages for the commander, the driver and the whole car

For the commander, the AR headset allows you to make tactical decisions faster, seeing not only the visual picture, but also analytical data, such as the type of detected target or its speed. The driver receives visual cues when driving in difficult terrain, including the contours of the roadway and obstacles.

In addition, the system can be integrated with unmanned reconnaissance vehicles, expanding the surveillance area beyond the vehicle itself. This makes the armored group more autonomous and resistant to losses.

Latvia has signed a contract for the supply of 42 HUNTER infantry fighting vehicles worth €387 million, strengthening cooperation with GDELS

 The Latvian Ministry of Defense has signed a contract with General Dynamics European Land Systems (GDELS) for the supply of 42 additional HUNTER infantry fighting vehicles, the latest version of the ASCOD platform. The total value of the agreement is €387 million ($453 million), including VAT.

Key points of the contract:

- The HUNTER machine is recognized as a key element of Latvia's defense strategy.

- The infantry fighting vehicle will provide the National Armed Forces with advanced combat capabilities and high mobility.

- The contract strengthens Latvia's partnership with GDELS and contributes to the modernization of the country's ground forces.

- The supply of new vehicles will significantly increase the combat capability and operational readiness of the Latvian army.

In the face of growing challenges in the region, expanding the fleet of modern infantry fighting vehicles is an important step to ensure national security and support collective defense within the framework of NATO. HUNTER combines modern technologies of protection, firepower and mobility, which makes it an effective tool in modern combat conditions.

Germany plans to purchase advanced Boxer RCT30 infantry fighting vehicles for "Medium Forces"

 Boxer RCT30

The German Ministry of Defense intends to purchase improved Boxer RCT30 wheeled infantry fighting vehicles as part of a program to develop a new category of troops — "Medium Forces". The total value of the deal is estimated at about 3.9 billion euros (4.5 billion US dollars), according to the portal Hartpunkt, referring to the draft federal budget of Germany for 2025.

Features of Boxer RCT30

- Upgraded version: The Boxer RCT30 is equipped with a 30 mm automatic cannon and modern fire control systems.

- High mobility: The wheeled platform provides fast transfer and maneuverability on various types of terrain.

- Crew protection: Reinforced armor and modern means of active protection increase the survivability of the vehicle on the battlefield.

The introduction of the "Medium Forces" category is aimed at creating flexible, rapidly deployable units capable of operating effectively in various scenarios, from local conflicts to peacekeeping operations. The Boxer RCT30 will be a key element of this concept, providing a balance between firepower, protection and mobility.

The purchase of modern combat vehicles will allow Germany to increase the defense capability and operational readiness of its armed forces, as well as strengthen its position within NATO. Investments in advanced technologies reflect Berlin's commitment to adapt to new security challenges in Europe and the world.

Delivery of the Boxer RCT30 is planned to begin in the coming years, with the gradual introduction of "Medium Forces" into the military. It is expected that the new vehicles will significantly increase the effectiveness of combat operations and become an important element of the modernization of the German army.

The Cabinet of Ministers of Latvia approved the purchase of 42 ASCOD infantry fighting vehicles

ASCOD

The Cabinet of Ministers of Latvia has decided to approve the proposal of the Ministry of Defense to purchase an additional 42 ASCOD infantry fighting vehicles. This step is aimed at strengthening the country's defense capability and modernizing the ground forces.

Features of ASCOD Combat Vehicles

- Origin and characteristics: ASCOD is a modern infantry fighting vehicle developed jointly by Austria and Spain. The machine is characterized by high mobility, crew protection and the ability to equip various types of weapons.

- Multifunctional: ASCOD can be used for infantry transportation, fire support, and reconnaissance missions.

- NATO compatibility: The vehicles fully comply with NATO standards, which is important for the integration of Latvian troops into the collective defense.

The purchase of additional infantry fighting vehicles will allow Latvia to increase the combat readiness and efficiency of its armed forces, as well as strengthen its position in the framework of regional security against the background of growing challenges in Eastern Europe.

General Dynamics has confirmed the successful design review of the XM30 digital infantry fighting vehicle and the delivery of a prototype for 2026

 On June 6, 2025, General Dynamics Land Systems (GDLS) confirmed that its initially digital infantry fighting vehicle (IFV) XM30 had passed a critical design review by the US Army, locking in the delivery of a prototype for 2026 and opening the crucial phase of a $45 billion competition to replace the Bradley fleet. The review crowns the army's first fully virtual development cycle and puts digital streaming engineering and the modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA) in the spotlight.

 In a conflict environment transformed by drones and precision fire, the ability to upgrade software and hardware in months rather than years could tip the scales on tomorrow's battlefields.

Thanks to the combination of a 50mm cannon with hybrid-electric mobility and its own MOSA system, the XM30 provides a longer range, reduced acoustic and infrared visibility, as well as "plug-and-play" upgrade capabilities that are unparalleled among competitors.

 (IFV) XM30

Rheinmetall unveiled a new configuration of the Boxer 8x8 infantry fighting vehicle with Turra 30 V10 turret at IDET 2025

 Presented at IDET 2025 in Brno, Czech Republic, Rheinmetall has unveiled a new infantry fighting vehicle (IFV) configuration for its Boxer 8x8 armored vehicle platform, equipped with a Turra 30 V10 remote-controlled turret developed by the Slovak defense company EVPU. 

This new demonstrator underscores Rheinmetall's commitment to adapting the Boxer to modern combat requirements by combining a battle-proven platform with a lethal modular weapon system. Although this version is not targeted at the Czech or Slovak armies, which operate the Pandur and Patria AMV XP respectively, this version demonstrates its export potential for future customers looking for advanced multi-purpose ground systems.

Lithuania will become the assembly center for CV90 infantry fighting vehicles for the Nordic and Baltic countries

CV90

Lithuanian Prime Minister Gabrielius Paluckas announced a preliminary agreement according to which about 30% of Swedish-made CV90 infantry fighting vehicles will be assembled in Lithuania. This decision is aimed at strengthening the region's defense capability and integrating Lithuanian enterprises into global defense industry supply chains.

According to the Prime Minister, Lithuania will play a key role in the production process of CV90 infantry fighting vehicles, which are planned to be purchased by the Nordic and Baltic countries. About a third of all ordered units of equipment will be assembled at Lithuanian enterprises, which will provide not only access to modern technologies, but also create new jobs in the country.

"This is an important step for Lithuania, which will strengthen our defense industry and increase the level of cooperation with other NATO countries," Paluckas said. He also stressed that the participation of local enterprises in the assembly of the CV90 will help develop high-tech skills and increase the competitiveness of the Lithuanian economy.

The CV90 is a modern infantry fighting vehicle developed by the Swedish company BAE Systems Hägglunds. It is widely used in the armies of NATO countries due to its maneuverability, security and modification capabilities. The purchase of these vehicles by the Baltic and Northern European countries is aimed at strengthening their defense capabilities in the face of growing tensions in the region.

Localizing part of the production in Lithuania will be a strategic decision that will not only ensure faster delivery of equipment, but also strengthen the collective defense of NATO countries. It also demonstrates the desire of the Allies to invest in the development of local defense infrastructure.

The assembly of the CV90 in Lithuania will provide the country with a unique opportunity to develop its own defense industry. Lithuanian enterprises will be able to participate in complex production processes, master advanced technologies and increase their export potential.

In addition, this agreement will strengthen Lithuania's position as a reliable partner within NATO. Integration into the defense supply chain will enhance the country's strategic importance and strengthen its role in ensuring regional security.

Lithuania's participation in the production of the CV90 may be the first step towards further developing cooperation with other European countries in the field of defense industry. The success of this project may attract additional investments and open up new opportunities for the export of military equipment.

Such initiatives contribute to strengthening the technological independence of the Baltic States and reducing dependence on external suppliers. This is especially important in the context of current geopolitical challenges.

The Nordic countries have confirmed the joint purchase of CV90 infantry fighting vehicles

 On April 22, 2025, during a joint press conference with Lithuanian Prime Minister Gintautas Paluckas, Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson confirmed plans for the joint purchase of several hundred CV90 infantry fighting vehicles with Finland, Norway and Lithuania. The planned purchase is expected to lead to an official statement of intent later in the spring. According to Kristersson, the goals of the joint acquisition include faster delivery times, lower costs and benefits for the defense industrial base. 

Although the exact financial cost of the agreement was not disclosed, it was stated that the number of machines involved is in the hundreds.

CV90

"Derivation-Air Defense": a new role in tank support

 "Derivation-Air defense" will soon arrive at the front

The promising Russian anti-aircraft artillery complex "Derivation-PVO" can be used in combat as tank support if the ammunition of the 2A91 guns is updated.

Key elements of the Swedish CV9040C Stridsfordon-90 heavy infantry fighting vehicle were placed at the disposal of Russian engineers, in particular, the Bofors L70 automatic cannon and APFSDS-T Mk 1 subcaliber shells with 120 mm armor penetration at a distance of 1.5 km at an initial velocity of 1480 m/s.

 Using the projectile database, the specialists of V.V. Bakhirev Nuclear Research Institute JSC can begin developing domestic 57-mm BOPS (kinetic projectiles) of a similar type as soon as possible to upgrade the ammunition sets of 2A91 highly automated ZSU 2S38 "Derivation-Air defense" guns. In this case, the estimated armor penetration of BOPS of a similar caliber with depleted uranium or tungsten cores can reach 200-210 mm at a distance of 1,500 m.

This will allow the use of "Derivation-Air defense" as an infantry fighting vehicle or a tank support vehicle, however, the vehicles must be retrofitted with a stock dynamic protection kit "Relict" based on 4C24 or "Cactus" elements.

Derivation-PVO is the only anti—aircraft system in the world that hits aerial targets using 57 mm cannons and is equipped with artillery fire control systems. The complex was created on the chassis of the BMP-3 infantry fighting vehicle.

The 2C38 cannon is primarily designed to combat drones, airborne weapons and cruise missiles in the near zone. The system is also capable of targeting ground targets.

Capture and destruction of the American Bradley infantry fighting vehicles: the situation for April 2025

Bradley stuck in the Ukrainian mud

According to open intelligence sources, as of April 2025, Russian forces had captured about eight American Bradley infantry fighting vehicles. In addition, it is reported that about 72 Bradley infantry fighting vehicles were destroyed during the conflict. These data indicate significant losses on the American side in the field of armored vehicles.

The Bradley infantry fighting vehicles captured by Russian troops can be used for various purposes, including technology research, training, and even participation in combat operations. The destruction of 72 infantry fighting vehicles indicates the intensity of the fighting and the effectiveness of Russian military operations in this conflict.

The loss of the American Bradley infantry fighting vehicles may have several consequences for military operations. First, it reduces the combat power of American units on the battlefield. Secondly, captured and destroyed infantry fighting vehicles can be used to analyze and improve their own technologies and tactics. Thirdly, it can affect the morale of American military personnel and their allies.

The reasons for the losses of the Bradley infantry fighting vehicle may be related to a number of factors, including the effectiveness of Russian anti-tank weapons, tactical errors by American units, and combat conditions. Russian troops have advanced anti-tank defense systems, which may explain the high losses of American armored vehicles.

KNDS France and the Greek company Metlen Energy & Metals have signed an exclusive partnership agreement for the production of VBCI Philoctetes infantry fighting vehicles

On March 26, 2025, in Athens, KNDS France and the Greek company Metlen Energy & Metals signed an exclusive partnership agreement that allows the production of the VBCI Philoctetes infantry fighting vehicle (BMP) in Greece. The agreement includes the transfer of experience in the field of aluminum armor and localized production of the VBCI Mk2 welded structure at Metlen's facilities in Volos. 

This is the first time that KNDS France has entered into a partnership of this magnitude for the production of 8x8 armored vehicles. The agreement is aimed at meeting the needs of the Greek Army for a large number of infantry fighting vehicles and possibly other European customers. The agreement also aims to increase the availability of equipment by locating both production and service facilities in Greece.

VBCI Philoctetes

Latvia has signed a contract for the supply of 42 ASCOD infantry fighting vehicles

 ASCOD

The Latvian Ministry of Defense has signed a contract with the Spanish defense company GDELS-Santa Bárbara Sistemas for the supply of 42 ASCOD infantry fighting vehicles. The contract amount is 373 million euros (about 408 million US dollars). The agreement was signed in early 2025 and provides for equipping one battalion of the motorized rifle brigade of the National Armed Forces of Latvia.

The contract includes the possibility of discussing the purchase of additional platforms for further re-equipment of other battalions in case additional funding is received. Currently, the Latvian motorized rifle brigade is equipped with CVR(T) armored vehicles purchased from the UK.

The purchased ASCOD infantry fighting vehicles are equipped with fourth-level armor according to NATO standards, an automatic cannon, anti-tank weapons, a machine gun and other advanced technologies. These vehicles can be operated by three soldiers and are capable of transporting and landing six soldiers in full combat gear.

The contract also provides for the participation of the local Latvian industry in the execution of the order in the amount of 30% of the total contract amount. This includes order fulfillment, technology transfer, and the creation of specific production facilities.

The Latvian Ministry of Defense is considering the possibility of further using the platforms already purchased to ensure greater vehicle compatibility between the battalions. In the future, if additional funding is available, other battalions may be upgraded.