Iraq’s state-owned Defense Industries Commission has commenced the production of a localized version of the Norinco VN22 6×6 armored fighting vehicle. This move marks a significant milestone in Iraq’s defense industry, showcasing the country’s growing capability in military manufacturing. The VN22, originally unveiled by Norinco in 2021, was introduced as a modular armored vehicle designed for various combat scenarios. According to a brochure released in 2022, the VN22 has a combat weight of 25 tonnes when equipped with a remotely operated 30 mm weapon station. This configuration allows for a crew of three and space for eight additional soldiers. The vehicle boasts Level 14 ballistic protection, capable of withstanding 14.5 mm rounds, and Level 4A/4B landmine protection under the VPAM standard.
The localized Iraqi version of the VN22, however, differs in armament. It features a manned weapon station equipped with a Norinco 12.7 mm CS/LM5 triple-barrel rotary heavy machine gun, which can fire at a rate of either 1,000 or 2,000 rounds per minute, depending on the selected gear. This variant is being manufactured under license by Iraq’s Defense Industries Commission. The original VN22 model, first displayed at the Zhuhai Airshow in 2021, was armed with a remotely operated turret featuring a 30 mm autocannon and two HJ-12 anti-tank guided missiles on a retractable mount. Both the gunner and the commander have independent panoramic sights with thermal imaging capabilities, enhancing situational awareness. The vehicle’s design includes a modular turret that can accommodate various weapon systems, offering flexibility in combat roles.
The VN22 is designed without side windows, indicating the likely use of external cameras to provide a 360° view around the vehicle. The rear of the vehicle is equipped with a hydraulic ramp, which includes an emergency manual door, facilitating rapid troop deployment. The vehicle can carry up to nine infantrymen, with six seats on the right side and three on the left of the troop compartment. Additional features of the VN22 include a V-shaped hull for enhanced protection against landmines and improvised explosive devices (IEDs). The vehicle’s turret is outfitted with extra armor to defend against anti-tank missiles and rocket-propelled grenades (RPGs). The left front side of the turret hosts an optic system with a day/night camera and a laser range finder, while the right side houses two missile launchers capable of firing Red Arrow 73D anti-tank missiles. These missiles are stored within the turret’s armor when not in use and can be deployed as needed.
The VN22’s armor provides comprehensive protection against 14.5 mm armor-piercing rounds, equivalent to NATO STANAG 4569 Level 4, from all directions. Additionally, the vehicle is equipped with 10 smoke grenade dischargers mounted on the front of the turret and the GL6 hard-kill active protection system (APS), which is comparable to Israel’s Iron Fist APS. The VN22 is a versatile 6×6 armored fighting vehicle designed primarily for export. Its design is divided into three main sections: the front houses the driver and the engine; the middle section is for the commander and operator of the remote weapon station; and the rear accommodates up to eight infantrymen. The vehicle also features fully adjustable suspension, further enhancing its adaptability to different combat environments.
