GDA 2017: Qatar becomes first VBCI export customer
The French-made VBCI 8x8 armoured vehicle has finally secured an export customer in Qatar, following a billion-dollar trade deal finalised between France and the Gulf state on 7 December.
In addition to the armoured vehicles, the two countries agreed on several major contracts including additional Rafale fighter jets, commercial airliners and infrastructure projects. The deals are likely to be worth around €12 billion ($14.1 billion), according to Reuters.
The Qataris have committed to purchasing 490 VBCI vehicles from French manufacturer Nexter, although the potential value of the contract, number of variants, or a production schedule has yet to be made
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