Ending a long series of speculations regarding its deployment and combat participation, the first images have emerged of the Centauro B1 combat vehicle modified by Ukraine to meet its current requirements, marking another example of Italy’s support to Kyiv in its efforts to resist the Russian invasion. According to a brief description accompanying the photographs, the armored vehicles have been integrated into the 78th Air Assault Regiment, providing increased firepower for their ground operations.
Expanding on the details visible in the images, it is clear that the Centauro B1 vehicles transferred by Italy have been equipped with cages and nets designed to enhance protection against drone attacks, which are frequently observed in modern battles, without sacrificing the vehicle’s mobility. The additional protection prevents unmanned systems from striking the vehicle directly, thereby reducing their destructive effect.
Regarding the Centauro B1’s capabilities, it should be noted that these are four-axle wheeled armored vehicles. Each unit weighs approximately 24 tons (27.5 tons when fitted with the additional armor kit) and is sized to allow transport on aircraft platforms, accommodating a crew of four: commander, driver, gunner, and loader. Each unit also features a CBRN protection system for operations in areas contaminated with chemical agents, as well as a fire suppression system consisting of five tanks containing a pressurized mixture of flame retardant and Halon 1301 gas.
In terms of propulsion, the Centauro B1 is equipped with a 520 hp IVECO 8262 V6 engine, providing a range of around 650 kilometers at an average speed of 70 km/h. It also features a ZF 5 HP 1500 automatic transmission with five forward gears and two reverse gears, as well as Michelin 14.00R20 run-flat tires, allowing the vehicle to move even if all eight wheels are damaged.
Regarding armament, the vehicles now in Ukrainian hands are fitted with a high-pressure L.52 105 mm gun manufactured by OTO-Breda in La Spezia, compatible with all standard NATO ammunition types; 14 rounds are ready for immediate use, with an additional 26 stored in two racks inside the vehicle. Furthermore, the design can accommodate two or three machine guns depending on the configuration (one coaxial), which may be Beretta MG42/59 or Rheinmetall MG3 models, both chambered in 7.62 mm and primarily differentiated by their rate of fire.
Finally, it is worth noting that Ukraine has also recently received a new batch of 6×6 Patria CAV wheeled combat vehicles, delivered by Finland, Latvia, and other European partners to enhance the capabilities of its mechanized units. Additionally, the United Kingdom completed the delivery of more than 120 AS-90 and M-109A4BE self-propelled artillery vehicles, complemented by 54 towed L119 105 mm artillery pieces.
Image credits: 78th Air Assault Regiment
You may also like: Ballistic and cruise missiles launched by the Russian Armed Forces are pushing Ukraine’s Patriot air defense systems to their limits
