Thales has officially launched the European Main Battle Tank Development (FMBTech) project, a collaborative initiative to design the next generation of main battle tanks (MBTs) for future hybrid warfare scenarios.
Coordinated by Thales and supported by the European Defence Fund (EDF), the three-year project brings together 26 entities from 13 EU member states and Norway, including 8 SMEs and 7 research and technology organizations (RTOs). The total budget allocated is €19 million.
FMBTech aims to develop modular, interoperable, and upgradable technology bricks that will strengthen the effectiveness and survivability of both current and future European MBTs. The effort addresses challenges posed by aging fleets while laying the foundation for fifth-generation armored platforms.
The program seeks to enhance defense innovation, ensure battlefield dominance, and reinforce European industrial cooperation. It will also contribute to reducing long-term costs through adaptable and scalable design.