Eurosatory 2012: Brazil and Iveco to Work Up Next-Generation Guarani

The Brazilian Army has tasked Iveco with the development of a new version of the Guarani armoured vehicle for use by infantry forces, it has been announced.

Speaking at Eurosatory in Paris on 12 June, Iveco company executives described the agreement with the Brazilian Army's Science and Technology Department, which will focus on the development of a 'wide variety' of vehicle configurations in order to help them fulfil roles including personnel carrier; reconnaissance; and ambulance.

The deal follows a 2009 agreement in which the army contracted Iveco to supply 6X6 Guarani or VBTP platforms as part of a wider 2,044-strong family of APCs. Over 100 units will be manufactured each year at a new manufacturing plant in Sete Lagoas, Brazil from 2013 onwards. A first prototype, which was delivered in 2011, is currently 'performing very well' during tests in Rio de Janeiro, it was added.


Iveco CEO, Alfredo Altavilla said: 'The Brazilian Army has made a decision to follow-on with the development of a new version of Guarani for mechanised brigades. It will include the specific needs of infantry applications and configurations which are now under discussion.'

Officials added that an 8X8 variant would be considered as well as modifications to the internal layout of the existing Guarani platform. A final decision on the configuration is expected in the next few weeks with the new vehicle due to begin testing in 2013 and beyond.


Guarani is an 18-ton platform which is powered by an FPT Industrial Cursor 9 engine with automatic gearbox. It is capable of carrying 11 personnel and can be airlifted by C-130 or KC-390 airframes.

Iveco's programme manager in Brazil, Paolo Del Noce, highlighted export potential in South America, saying: 'There is potential for sales in several world markets. The Argentinian Army has already demonstrated its interest. They are working with Brazil for a procurement in 2013.'