The FMBTech Initiative: A Closer Look

The Technologies for Existing and Future Main Battle Tanks (FMBTech) project has officially commenced, marking a significant step toward modernizing European defense capabilities [[2]]. Coordinated by Thales, this European project seeks to revolutionize MBTs for the modern hybrid war.

• Objective: To develop modular and adaptable solutions ensuring operational readiness in diverse and complex battlefields.
• Funding: The european Commission, through the European Defence Fund (EDF), has allocated €19 million to the project [[1]].
• Duration: The project is slated to run for three years.

Consortium and Collaboration

FMBTech is a collaborative effort involving 26 participating entities, including 8 SMEs (Small and Medium Enterprises) and 7 RTOs (Research and Technology Organizations) from 13 EU member states and Norway [[1]].

Participating Partners:

• THALES SIX GTS FRANCE SAS (France)
• ARQUUS (France)
• C&V CONSULTING (Belgium)
• Cy4gate spa (Italy)
• ENVIRONICS OY (Finland)
• EIGHT BELLS HELLAS IKE (Greece)
• GMV Aerospace and Difence (Spain)
• Guardiaris Racunal Apps and Simulations doo (Slovenia)
• Hensoldt France Sas (France)
• ISD AEROSPACE LIMITED (Ireland)
• Swimming of -Beda France (France)
• MSM LAND SYSTEMS SRO (Slovakia)
• KNDS (France)
• Research and development of mechanical devices OBRUM Sp. Zoo (Poland)
• Politecnico di Milano (Italy)
• Safran Electronics & Defense (France)
• SAVOX COMMUNICATIONS OY (Finland)
• SCERTAS GMBH (Germany)
• SKYLD SECURITY AND DIFENCE LIMITED (Cyprus)
• Above Steria as (Norway)
• Technology research Center VTT Oy (Finland)
• THALES ITALIA SPA (Italy)
• VETRONICS RESEARCH CENTRE EU LTD (Cyprus)
• vojnice Research Institute of SP Republicblica (Czech Republic)
• Wojskowa University of Technology Jaroslaw Dabrowski (Poland)
• Wojskowy Institute of Armored and Motor Technology (Poland)

Technological Advancements and Objectives

The FMBTech project aims to leverage innovative technology ‘bricks’ to construct a future fleet of MBTs that are not only agile and intelligent but also capable of cooperative operation [[2]]. This initiative seeks to address the limitations of aging MBT inventories in the EU and Norway.

The project will improve the effectiveness, safety, and economy of existing and future MBTs, ensuring they remain basic resources on the battlefield while bridging the gap with emerging fifth-generation capabilities.

EU’s Strategic Positioning

FMBTech positions the EU at the forefront of advanced defense technologies,strengthening military innovation and collaboration within the European defense sector. By fostering cooperation among companies, including SMEs, and research organizations, the project promotes the development of advanced and interoperable defense materials [[3]].

By using innovative technology ‘bricks’, the project aims to build a future fleet of agile, intelligent and co-operative MBTs to address the limitations of ageing MBT inventories in the EU and Norway.

Technologies for Existing and Future Main Battle Tanks project

FAQ: FMBTech Project

What is the main goal of the FMBTech project?

To develop the next generation of agile, intelligent, and cooperative main battle tanks for the EU and Norway.

Who is funding the FMBTech project?

The European Commission through the European defence Fund (EDF).

How much funding has been allocated to the FMBTech project?

€19 million.

how long will the FMBTech project last?

Three years.

How many entities are participating in the FMBTech consortium?

26, including SMEs and RTOs from 13 EU member states and Norway.