Main Battle Tanks Future Technology Revolutionizes Defense
A coalition of several European nations has initiated an ambitious project named Technologies for Existing and Future Main Battle Tanks (FMBTech) aimed at transforming Main Battle Tanks (MBTs) to meet the changing requirements of contemporary hybrid warfare. This three-year program will tackle the limitations present in current MBT fleets, seeking to enhance their performance, protection, and cost-effectiveness. By incorporating scalable technological components, FMBTech will facilitate the seamless integration of new advancements into modern military systems, including anticipated fifth-generation capabilities.
Thales, a key player in defense technology, is at the helm of this initiative, which unites 26 companies, comprising small and medium-sized enterprises as well as specialized research organizations from 13 EU member states and Norway. “FMBTech positions the EU at the forefront of advanced, cutting-edge defense technologies, reinforcing military innovation and collaboration within European defense,” emphasized a representative from Thales.
European Defence Fund Supports Groundbreaking Initiative
In 2023, FMBTech was earmarked for financial backing from the European Defence Fund (EDF), which has allocated a substantial budget of 19 million euros, approximately $21 million, to bolster this project. The EDF serves as a critical funding mechanism established by the European Commission, designed to promote joint defense research and developmental efforts across the EU. Its primary objective is to enhance cooperation among industry leaders and research entities, while also focusing on driving technological innovation and interoperability in the defense sector.
The EDF boasts an impressive overall budget of about 7.3 billion euros, or $7.8 billion, allocated for the years 2021 to 2027, aimed at supporting various initiatives within the defense framework. Of this, 2.7 billion euros, equating to $2.9 billion, is specifically reserved for joint defense research, while 5.3 billion euros, or $5.7 billion, is designated for collaborative development of defense capabilities that supplement individual national efforts.
