Luxembourg Armed Forces Provides CLRV Demonstration at NSPA HQs

NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) hosted a Pre-Series Command Liaison and Reconnaissance Vehicle (CLRV) Demonstration Day by the Luxembourg Army at its headquarters in Capellen, Luxembourg. Following the vehicle pre-series delivery ceremony held at the Military Centre in Diekirch (Luxembourg) on 11 October, the Luxembourg Armed Forces organized a Demonstration Day at NSPA’s Headquarters in Capellen, Luxembourg. Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) from Luxembourg Army provided technical and operational details about the technical specifications of the CLRVs, as well as the type of missions and operations applicable to these capabilities. The acquisition cost is €226.6 million. The acquisition and the life cycle cost of the vehicle and the systems fitted, including the logistics for 15–20 years has a cost cap of €367 million.

The CLRV, or Command Liaison and Reconnaissance Vehicle, is designed to meet the Luxembourg Army’s needs for reconnaissance and liaison. Based on the Mowag Eagle V model by General Dynamics European Land Systems, the CLRV retains the robust characteristics of this proven vehicle, adding specialized communication and combat equipment to better meet modern requirements. Also used by Germany, the Eagle V is a light armored vehicle with significant versatility and exceptional battlefield survivability. Once operational, the multi-role and multi-purpose CLRVs will feature high ballistic and mine protection. The first ten production models are expected in March 2025, followed by 30 more by October 2025, and the final 40 by October 2026, replacing the Dingo and Hummer vehicles currently in service.

Additionally, the CLRV will be equipped with a specific Remote Weapon Station and French SCORPION Programme-based mission equipment to ensure interoperability with other NATO Allies and partners. The CLRV can be equipped with either a 7.62 or 12.7 mm caliber machine gun, providing adaptable firepower for reconnaissance missions or convoy protection. The mission equipment will be common to the French and Belgian VBMR Griffon. It will be fitted with the RWS deFNder Medium from FN Herstal, the information and combat system Scorpion (SICS from ATOS), the CONTACT radio system SDR from Thales and the anti-ied jammer BARAGE from Thales Belgium. The RCWS is equipped with a M2 machine gun, EO/IR sensors, and a 6-smoke grenades launcher.

The CLRV uses a 4×4 chassis and engine Cummins ISB 6.7 E3 245 Common Rail coupled to an Allison transmission 2500 SP 5-Speed automatic. The 245 HP Cummins turbocharged diesel engine, in connection with an Allison 5-speed automatic transmission, the remarkable De Dion axle system with the patented roll stabilizer, the tire pressure control system and the permanent all-wheel drive give the CLRV superior on-road and off-road mobility. With a top speed of 65 km/h on roads and a range of 700 km, the CLRV offers significant operational freedom, allowing it to cover large areas without frequent refueling. Measuring 5.77 meters in length, 2.78 meters in width, and 1.87 meters in height, the vehicle is compact yet spacious enough to carry a crew of two plus two additional soldiers. Its integrated design includes a rear-view camera to enhance visibility and facilitate maneuvering in constrained environments.