Significant Upgrade for Czech Armored Vehicles with Advanced Israeli Technology
Pandur II armored vehicles were spotted in southern Israel with Elbit Systems technology, in service with the Czech Army
A Czech Pandur II APC (minus the reported upgrades). Photo via Wikimedia Commons
IDFOsint, a military page on X (formerly Twitter) that focuses on open-source intelligence regarding IDF reports, has observed a Pandur II wheeled infantry fighting vehicle (IFV) equipped with an Elbit Systems UT-30 Mk.2 unmanned turret in southern Israel. This sighting may indicate an upgrade for the Czech Army.
This development follows reports that the Czech company Tatra Defense Vehicle (TDV) has begun work on a new generation of Pandur II 8×8 IFVs. The new model, known as the Pandur II 8×8 EVO, is intended by the Czech Army to replace the current VZ.82 PRAM-L and vz.85 PRAM-S self-propelled mortars, as well as to increase the overall number of Pandurs in its arsenal.
Defense Blog highlights that a key feature of this upgrade is the inclusion of the Elbit Systems UT-30 Mk.2 remote-controlled weapon station (RCWS). This turret is equipped with a 30mm Mk.44 Bushmaster II autocannon, a 7.62mm machine gun, and two Rafael Spike-LR/LR2 anti-tank guided missiles. Additional features include the ELAWS laser warning system and the potential installation of the Iron Fist LC active protection system (APS).
The development of the Pandur II 8×8 EVO is expected to be completed in 2024.
