Vulcain

   The Vulcain is a new French armored engineer vehicle. Its official designation is AMX-30 Engin Blinde du Genie Vulcain, or AMX-30 EBG Vulcain. It is a modified version of the previous AMX-30 EBG, but fitted with an excavator arm instead of manipulator arm. Demolition gun has been removed. The first Vulcain was delivered to the French Army in 2020. It is planned that another 3 vehicles will be delivered in 2021. Most likely that these will be converted from surplus EBGs. Interestingly another Leclerc EPG armored engineer vehicle was developed for the French Army. It is based on the Leclerc main battle tank chassis and is overall a more capable and versatile vehicle. However it seems that the Vulcain is a less expensive option to the Leclerc EPG, hence it is being ordered by the French Army.

   The Vulcain was primarily designed for earthworking operations on the frontline. It can prepare emplacements, dig and fill ditches, clear routes, perform counter-mobility operations. It can also recover vehicles.

   For its roles the Vulcain is fitted with a dozer blade, hydraulic arm with a 3 t excavator bucket, new 12 t capacity recovery winch.

   There is a 7.62 mm machine gun for self-defense.

   Vehicle has NBC protection system for the crew and can operate in a contaminated environment.

   This armored engineer vehicle is operated by a crew of 3, including commander, driver and operator.

   The Vulcain is based on a modified AMX-30 main battle tank chassis. It seems that the Vulcain is powered by a Mack E9 diesel engine, developing 750 hp. This vehicle is fitted with a deep wading kit.