A pan-European collaboration for next-generation armoured vehicles

Building the future of defence mobility in Europe

The FAMOUS (Future Highly Mobile Augmented Armoured Systems) programme represents a major European defence initiative to design and develop advanced armoured vehicle solutions. Funded by the European Union through the European Defence Fund, the programme spans two key phases: the initial study phase and the current development phase.

  • Text:Amanda Chapman-Stavn / KONGSBERG

    Photo:Camilla Myrvik / KONGSBERG

Laying the groundwork for innovation

The FAMOUS project began with a focus on defining the specifications for future armoured vehicles. Launched through a competitive EU public tender, the study phase ultimately awarded the contract to a consortium led by Patria. The insights and specifications generated during this phase now serve as the foundation for the FAMOUS2 project, where Norway plays a pivotal role as a contributing partner.

Running from 2023 to 2026, FAMOUS2 is an ambitious initiative led by Patria in collaboration with 19 companies across eight countries. With a budget of €122 million, €95 million of which is dedicated to research and development, the project aims to create modular, environmentally friendly, and highly capable armoured vehicles.

The collaboration of diverse countries and competitors brings both challenges and opportunities. “The key is ensuring clarity on requirements, effective communication, and a shared understanding,” says Juha Lähteenmäki, Director of Technology at Patria. “At the same time, this diversity is also a great advantage. It strengthens cooperation, builds unique relationships, and allows us to harness each other’s strengths while working towards a common goal.”

Juha Lähteenmäki, Director of Technology at Patria and Jens-Petter Røren, Senior Project Manager at Kongsberg Defence & Aerosspace.

Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace’s role

As a key partner in FAMOUS2, Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace contributes expertise across several critical areas. This includes advancing Remote Weapon Systems (RS6 RWS) to provide flexible and effective defence solutions, integrating European suppliers for sensors and weapon systems (the RS6 RWS will integrate the KNDS new 30mm gun with dual-feeding capability, developed under FAMOUS2), and developing an ITAR-Free version of the RS6. Additionally, the company is driving the development of autonomy technologies (ATPu) to enhance vehicle independence and operational efficiency.

The company is also leading innovations in Man-Unmanned Teaming (MUM-T), enabling seamless collaboration between manned and unmanned systems, and delivering secure communication solutions through the THOR platform. Additionally, Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace is strengthening cybersecurity with the CC600 platform, ensuring robust protection for systems and networks.

These contributions are central to achieving the project’s goal of delivering next-generation technologies for Europe’s defence sector.

Jens-Petter Røren, Senior Project Manager and lead on FAMOUS2 in Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace.

Goals and progress

FAMOUS2 is focused on developing two primary platforms: a tracked All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) and a 4x4 Light Armoured Vehicle (LAV). These platforms will share over 60% of their commonality, ensuring cost-efficiency and operational flexibility.

The programme also seeks to modernise existing platforms with advanced technologies, including predictive maintenance capabilities, smart and dynamic electric distribution  systems, and autonomous capabilities.

The FAMOUS2 project has made excellent progress so far. “I’m very satisfied with what we’ve achieved,” says Lähteenmäki. “It reflects strong development and the dedication of everyone involved.”

Europe’s defence industry gathered in Kongsberg

In November 2024, Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace hosted a three-day event for the FAMOUS2 project, bringing together 110 representatives from 18 leading European defence companies and officials from six Ministries of Defence. The event focused on progress updates, knowledge sharing, and planning for the next steps in developing advanced armoured vehicle solutions.

Participants attended consortium meetings and project presentations while also exploring Kongsberg’s cultural heritage.

“Initially, I was sceptical about working within the highly competitive defence industry in the FAMOUS2 consortium. But at the end of the day, we are all just people. Trust doesn’t happen instantly – it’s built over time through collaboration, solving problems together, and sharing moments outside of work. These experiences have turned partners into friends,” says Røren, adding:

“By hosting this event, we wanted to create opportunities to continue building trust and friendships, and from the positive feedback we’ve received, it feels like we’ve succeeded."

"This event was made possible thanks to the invaluable support of local companies and museums in Kongsberg.”

With the Preliminary Design Review (PDR) complete, the project now moves towards its Critical Design Review (CDR) in 2026, marking strong progress and effective collaboration among European partners.

The FAMOUS2 programme demonstrates the value of collaboration in addressing Europe’s defence needs. With progress well underway, the consortium is on track to deliver practical, advanced solutions that will enhance mobility, protection, and operational capabilities for years to come.

Businesses involved in FAMOUS2 - logo

Logo European Union

This project has received funding from the European Defence Industrial Development Programme (EDIDP) under Grant Agreements No EDIDP-GCC-2020-058- FAMOUS and European Defence Fund (EDF) Project 101103043 — FAMOUS2.
 
This presentation reflects only the author's view and that the Commission is not responsible for any use that may be made of the information it contains. 

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