The French Ministry of the Armed Forces publicly confirmed that it had received deliveries of the first R3-standard Jaguar EBRC (Engin Blindé de Reconnaissance et de Combat) from KNDS France. These were provided beginning in the Summer of 2026, with twenty-one vehicles provided by September.
The Jaguar R-3 is a key element of the French military’s SCIORPION initiative, which enhances ground combat capabilities by introducing digital networking across a range of next-generation vehicles. The fielding offers real-time data sharing between troops, vehicles, and command centres to speed up decision-making. In addition, its unified digital network seeks to share a real-time view of the battlefield.
The Jaguar is a 25-tonne, 6×6 wheeled armoured vehicle replacing the AMX-10RC. The R3 standard includes next-generation sensors, an upgraded human-machine interface, integrated vehicle systems, and a new suite of weapons. The vehicle uses KNDS’ digital T40 turret with the 40 mm CTA cannon, the AKERON MP anti-tank guided missile and a remotely operated 7.62 mm machine gun. The 40 mm cannon and Akeron MP anti-tank missiles provide the ability to engage targets at up to 4,000 meters.
The R3 Jaguar combines capabilities previously distributed across multiple vehicles. Thus, the Jaguar R3 offers a platform capable of reconnaissance, direct-fire support, and long-range anti-armour engagement. The T40 turret and CTA autocannon use a unique encased projectile that significantly reduces internal space requirements and enables increased elevation.
Similarly, the AKERON MP ATGM uses an optical-fibre data link between the missile and gunner during flight. It allows for lock-on before launch, lock-on after launch, fire-and-forget operation, man-in-the-loop control, firing on coordinates and beyond-line-of-sight engagements. This flexibility enhances the AT capability’s suitability for the unique requirements of reconnaissance and security missions the Jaguar may be called upon to execute.
The French Army intends to field three hundred R3 Jaguars, while Belgium and Luxembourg will introduce the Jaguar under the Capacité Motorisée (CaMo) program.
by Stephen W. Miller
