AMX-VCI | |
|---|---|
| Country | France |
| Type | Armored personnel carrier |
| Produced | 1957-Unknow |
| Built | 3000+ |
The AMX-VCI (French: Véhicule de Combat d’Infanterie) is one of the many variants of the French AMX-13 light tank. It was the front line APC of the French Army until replaced by the AMX-10P. It is still used by some countries, for example Mexico, where it goes under the name of DNC-1 and is armed with a 20mm cannon.
Source: AMX-VCI on Wikipedia
| AMX-VTT Walk Around | |
|---|---|
| Photographer | Olivier Carneau |
| Localisation | Unknow |
| Photos | 40 |
See also:
The AMX-VCI (Véhicule de Combat d’Infanterie) was a French infantry fighting vehicle based on the AMX-13 light tank chassis. It was developed in the 1950s and entered service with the French Army in the late 1950s/early 1960s. The AMX-VCI served for many decades in various forms and roles, and was exported to several countries.
Key Features and Characteristics
- Chassis: Based on the reliable and adaptable AMX-13 light tank chassis, offering good mobility.
- Role: Primarily designed as an infantry fighting vehicle, transporting infantry and providing fire support.
- Armor: Provided protection against small arms fire and shrapnel, though it was relatively light compared to later IFVs.
- Armament: Varied depending on the variant. Common armament included a 20mm autocannon, machine guns (7.62mm or 12.7mm), or a combination thereof. Some variants were designed for specific roles like carrying mortars or anti-tank guided missiles.
- Mobility: Tracked vehicle with good cross-country performance.
- Variants: Numerous variants were developed for different roles, including command vehicles, artillery observation vehicles, ambulance, and anti-aircraft platforms.
- Amphibious Capability: Some later variants were amphibious.
Operational History
The AMX-VCI saw service with the French Army in various conflicts, and was also exported to several nations. Its versatility and adaptability made it a valuable asset on the battlefield. While eventually replaced by more modern IFVs, it served for a long time and demonstrated the effectiveness of the AMX-13 chassis as a multi-role platform.
Variants (Examples)
- AMX-VCI 20mm: The most common variant, armed with a 20mm autocannon.
- AMX-VTT (Transport de Troupe): Troop transport version.
- AMX-105 AM: Self-propelled artillery variant.
- Many other specialized variants existed.
The AMX-VCI played a significant role in the development of mechanized infantry tactics and remains a notable example of post-World War II armored vehicle design.