John Cockerill Defense at Eurosatory : When Expertise Comes Together, Capabilities Multiply
June 14th 2026
Eurosatory 2026 marks a major milestone in the history of John Cockerill Defense. For the first time, the Group is presenting itself under a unified identity, bringing together all of its expertise and brands under a single ambition: to provide armed forces with comprehensive, high-performance and sovereign defence solutions.
Alongside John Cockerill Defense, the expertise of Arquus, Cockerill, Hornet, Agueris and Eurocontrol is now brought together to deliver a comprehensive response to the needs of modern land forces. Each of these brands possesses a strong identity, recognised expertise, and its own history. Together, they now form a unique ecosystem capable of addressing the entire value chain, ranging from protected mobility and weapon systems to optronic systems, fire control, simulation, training and force support.
This complementarity is now one of John Cockerill Defense’s greatest strengths. Beyond the ability to offer each product or expertise independently, the Group is now able to integrate these capabilities within a common architecture in order to design coherent, scalable solutions tailored to the specific needs of each customer.
This systems integration approach creates additional value for end users through enhanced interoperability, greater ease of deployment, optimised operational support and improved control over operational performance. More than a collection of products, John Cockerill Defense now delivers genuine integrated capabilities designed to meet the demands of current and future conflicts.
This edition of Eurosatory also illustrates the strength of tangible European industrial cooperation. By bringing together recognised French and Belgian expertise, John Cockerill Defense demonstrates that it is possible to build industrial champions capable of addressing the strategic challenges of our time. This Franco-Belgian partnership stands as a powerful example of what European defence can be: a Europe founded on complementary skills, innovation and industrial sovereignty.
In a context marked by the rapid evolution of threats and the need for European nations to strengthen their strategic autonomy, this complementarity represents a major asset. Together, our teams share a common vision: developing innovative, interoperable and sovereign solutions in support of armed forces and their missions.
This momentum is already taking shape today. On the occasion of Eurosatory 2026, John Cockerill Defense unveils the first product resulting from the combined expertise of the Group’s various brands. The outcome of a collaborative approach, this new solution demonstrates John Cockerill Defense’s ability to bring together its know-how in order to deliver systems offering both strategic and operational mobility superiority. More than a new product, this first achievement symbolises the Group’s vision: transforming complementary expertise into a true capability multiplier for the benefit of armed forces.
Meet us at Stand F129 – Hall 5A to discover this innovation, the first tangible demonstration of how the Group is already shaping the capabilities of tomorrow.
From Expertise to Capabilities: Solutions Presented at Eurosatory 2026
MAV’Rx: Born for Combat, Perfected Through Experience
Unveiled during the previous edition of Eurosatory, John Cockerill Defense is showcasing the MAV’Rx on its stand, its next generation 4×4 multi-role armoured platform, developed through a design approach intended to meet the most demanding challenges of the contemporary battlefield.
Since its first presentation, the vehicle has continued its development through numerous testing campaigns conducted across various terrains and operational environments. These successive trials have confirmed its performance while incorporating lessons learned from recent conflicts and operational feedback, enabling the platform to evolve and better meet user expectations.
The MAV’Rx stands out through its ability to combine within a single platform capabilities that have traditionally been difficult to reconcile. Its operational proposition is built around three key pillars:
- High-Level Protection: The MAV’Rx offers a level of survivability enabling operations in close-contact environments, including the most demanding operational theatres. The configuration presented at Eurosatory 2026 benefits from protection compliant with STANAG 4569 standards, enhancing crew safety against current threats.
- Firepower Adapted to Modern Engagements: Thanks to its payload capacity and modular architecture, the MAV’Rx can accommodate medium-calibre weapon systems. The vehicle displayed at the exhibition is equipped with a remotely operated Cockerill® Light Weapon System (CLWS) mounting a 25 mm cannon, demonstrating the platform’s ability to provide effective fire support in close proximity to engaged units. Compact and agile, the CLWS features day/night targeting capabilities, stabilised firing and full integration within digital battlefield networks, enabling highly accurate engagements while protecting the operator. Through its agility, precision and modularity, it provides an effective response to the growing threat posed by drones and light aerial platforms, reinforcing its strategic role within multi-domain combat environments.
- Transport Capacity for a Full Infantry Squad: The MAV’Rx can accommodate up to ten personnel while providing outstanding ergonomics and comfort. Designed as a multi-role platform, it can fulfil various missions including troop transport, command post operations, weapon system carrier functions and medical evacuation.
The MAV’Rx therefore offers armed forces a genuine contact vehicle platform without compromising on protection, firepower or payload capacity. Incorporating mobility components already qualified by the French Defence Procurement Agency (DGA), the platform also distinguishes itself through excellent road handling and optimised maintenance, supporting high operational availability.
With a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 19 tonnes and a 400 hp engine coupled with an automatic transmission, the MAV’Rx delivers a high level of mobility across all terrains. Its obstacle-crossing capabilities allow operation in the most demanding environments, including 60% gradients, 30% side slopes, a 1-metre trench, a 0.5-metre vertical obstacle and a 1.2-metre water fording capability.
The version presented at Eurosatory 2026 also integrates several systems tailored to current operational requirements, including tropicalised air conditioning, the BattleNet system, dual electrical networks, a cold-weather kit and counter-drone capabilities through the Cerbair jammer.
Through its scalable architecture, high level of protection and versatility, the MAV’Rx embodies John Cockerill Defense’s ambition to deliver solutions adapted to the realities of modern warfare.
ZETROS by Arquus: The logistics and tactical truck designed for the most demanding environments
At the heart of French defence news in recent months, the partnership between Arquus and Daimler Truck is playing a key role in one of the largest programmes undertaken by the French Army in recent years.
At Eurosatory 2026, John Cockerill Defense is proud to present the ZETROS by Arquus, the result of this cooperation and a demonstration of Arquus’ expertise in vehicle militarisation and systems integration. Based on Daimler Truck’s 6×6 tactical chassis, the vehicle benefits from Arquus’ know-how to meet the requirements of modern armed forces.
Designed for the most demanding operational environments, the ZETROS by Arquus can fulfil a wide range of missions, including logistics support, troop transport, systems transport, command post operations, medical support and fire support. Its modular design also allows the integration of mission-specific equipment according to user requirements.
The vehicle displayed at the exhibition represents just one of the many available configurations. Additional variants can be offered, including armoured cabs, dedicated militarisation kits and the integration of complementary systems.
The configuration showcased at Eurosatory 2026 also demonstrates the platform’s integration capabilities. Equipped with RAMPART, Naval Group’s Modular Multi-Purpose Launcher, the ZETROS by Arquus highlights its ability to integrate complex systems designed for the protection of critical sites and air bases, as well as for fire support and coastal defence missions.
Naval Group’s RAMPART system can deploy 68 mm and 70 mm guided rockets, surface to-air missiles, anti-tank missiles, decoys, and other effectors. The ZETROS by Arquus naturally stands out as an ideal platform for the deployment of this system, thanks to its mobility, robustness and payload capacity.
With its 6×6 drivetrain, 21.5-tonne GVWR and 6-tonne payload capacity, the ZETROS by Arquus offers an excellent balance between mobility and carrying capacity. Its 480 hp diesel engine coupled with an automatic transmission enables operations in particularly challenging environments.
The vehicle is also equipped with systems designed to enhance crew survivability and comfort, including air conditioning and heating systems, a Central Tyre Inflation System (CTIS), run-flat tyres and various adaptations tailored to military requirements.
Beyond its off-road performance, the ZETROS by Arquus has been designed with particular attention to durability and ease of support. The use of proven components, simplified access to major mechanical systems and the support of Daimler Truck’s global service network contribute to high operational availability and facilitate maintenance close to the end user. Its mobility performance includes 50% gradients, 30% side slopes, a 0.9 metre trench, a 0.5-metre vertical obstacle and a 1.2-metre water fording capability.
The ZETROS by Arquus fully illustrates John Cockerill Defense’s ability to combine proven platforms, militarisation expertise and systems integration capabilities in order to deliver reliable, scalable solutions adapted to the operational challenges of today and tomorrow.
DRAILER: An Experimental Platform Serving Ground Robotics
The DRAILER embodies John Cockerill Defense’s vision for future ground robotics and autonomous systems. Designed as a technology demonstrator, it has enabled the company’s teams to develop solid expertise in three key areas: ground robotics, teleoperation and mobility related autonomy building blocks.
Beyond its technical capabilities, the DRAILER can be regarded as a genuine innovation laboratory. Through its development, it has enabled the exploration of new control architectures and the progressive evaluation of autonomous functions within a variety of operational environments. The integration of the HORNET T1 Remote Weapon Station onto the platform demonstrates John Cockerill Defense’s commitment to innovation through the combination of complementary technologies.
In the coming months, the DRAILER will continue to serve as an experimental platform for testing emerging technologies and confronting innovative solutions with real-world operational conditions.
At Eurosatory 2026, the DRAILER highlights Arquus’ commitment to robotics: a pragmatic and progressive approach firmly rooted in technological advancement.
SHERPA SCOUT 120 MC: An Iconic Reference That Continues to Evolve
With more than 1,300 vehicles in service worldwide, the SHERPA family has established itself as one of the benchmarks in the protected light tactical vehicle segment. Deployed across all continents and engaged in particularly demanding operational environments, SHERPA has consistently demonstrated its robustness, reliability and adaptability to a wide range of missions.
At Eurosatory 2026, John Cockerill Defense, in partnership with Thales, presents a new illustration of this versatility through the SHERPA Scout 120 MC. This configuration demonstrates the platform’s ability to integrate complex systems while preserving its mobility and payload capabilities.
The vehicle on display is equipped with a 120 mm rifled mortar deployable in less than one minute and capable of carrying 32 rounds. Its architecture combines autonomy, responsiveness and ease of operation while providing crews with a high level of protection and survivability.
Thanks to its recognised off-road capabilities, the SHERPA Scout performs equally well on tracks, rough terrain and degraded environments. Capable of carrying up to four personnel, it benefits from excellent mobility and obstacle-crossing performance. The configuration presented at the exhibition incorporates a winch and a Hornet Lite Remote Weapon Station armed with a 7.62 mm machine gun to provide vehicle self protection.
Designed as a scalable platform, the SHERPA can accommodate a wide range of equipment and be configured into numerous variants to meet specific operational requirements. This modularity makes SHERPA particularly attractive for forces seeking a solution capable of evolving alongside mission needs.
Through its maturity, versatility and ability to integrate new operational functions, the SHERPA Scout 120 MC showcases the full potential of the SHERPA family and its ability to support land forces over the long term across a broad range of operational theatres.
BASTION: Built for Rugged Reliability
A benchmark in the 4×4 light armoured vehicle segment, the BASTION has established itself over the years as a proven solution renowned for its robustness, ease of deployment and ability to meet the operational requirements of forces operating in the most demanding environments.
Designed around a philosophy that prioritises ruggedness, reliability and ease of support, the BASTION offers a highly sought-after balance between protection, mobility and
simplicity of operation. Its proven architecture ensures high operational availability, even
under challenging operating conditions.
With more than 600 vehicles in service, particularly across the African continent, the BASTION has become one of the best-selling vehicles in its category. Combat-proven, it benefits from extensive operational feedback that has helped build its reputation among users worldwide.
The BASTION is a versatile platform capable of fulfilling a wide range of operational roles, from armoured troop transport and command post missions to medical support operations. Its spacious interior volume of more than 8 m³ and its capacity to carry up to ten personnel provide crews with a high level of comfort, flexibility and mission versatility.
The version showcased at Eurosatory 2026 benefits from STANAG 4569-compliant protection. It is equipped with a PL80 manual turret, a communication system and a fire suppression system, further enhancing the vehicle’s protection during operations.
Built around a 4×4 drivetrain, the BASTION has a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 12.5 tonnes. Powered by a 260 hp diesel engine coupled with a six-speed automatic transmission, it offers an operational range of more than 1,200 kilometres. Its mobility performance enables it to operate across a wide variety of terrain, including 50% gradients, 30% side slopes and 1-metre-deep water fording capability.
Designed for users seeking a robust, combat-proven and easy-to-support solution, the BASTION continues to embody John Cockerill Defense’s expertise in protected mobility and confirms its relevance in meeting the current operational requirements of armed forces.
LIGHT ARMORED VEHICLE: Arquus’ Expertise serving the future european Light Armoured Vehicle
Derived from a technical specification converged by the MoDs of 19 European countries (including France, Belgium, Greece, Germany, Spain, etc.), the Light Armoured Vehicle is a demonstrator characterized for missions of reconnaissance, intelligence gathering, and combat engagement support.
Arquus, drawing on extensive experience in the design and qualification of historical light armoured vehicles for the French Army, has designed, as the segment leader, the entire rolling base and hull of the LAV. Equipped with best-in-class mobility thanks to its hybrid drivetrain, hydro-pneumatic suspensions, and strong autonomy capabilities, the LAV features cutting-edge operational capabilities in terms of stealth (with a silent electric mode), protection, and energy efficiency (silent standby and power generation at the highest levels). Built on the most modern electrical architecture standard, the LAV incorporates strong and exploratory technological content in relation to the challenges of the future battlefield (drone integration, power generation, platform autonomy, etc.)
Combined with the building blocks of European co-contractors such as John Cockerill with the CLWS 25 medium-caliber turret (the lightest 25mm turret on the market), KNDS with the CBRN protection system or the intelligent energy management system, Indra for communication systems, and ISD with its Situational Awareness system, the FAMOUS LAV positions itself as an innovative and forward-looking response to global demand for small tactical reconnaissance vehicles.
The demonstrator enables validation of these architectural and technological building blocks, according to their maturity level (TRL), in order to assess their relevance for future light vehicle applications in the 8 to 9.5-tonne range, intended for the roles defined by its specification.
From 25 mm to 105 mm: Two Centuries of Expertise in Next-Generation Weapon Systems Serving the Armed Forces
Hornet S: the next-generation remote-controlled weapon station
Developed by Arquus as part of the Scorpion program, the Hornet S equips the French Army’s EBRC Jaguar. Compact and lightweight: 165 kg on the roof, 648 mm in height; it stands out for its independent movement between the weapon station and the sight, offering unrivalled tactical flexibility. Armed with a 7.62 mm machine gun with 550 rounds on board, it provides unlimited azimuth coverage and elevation from -20° to +60°, with a slew rate of 90°/s. Automatic loading, electric firing control and case and link recovery make it a system built for modern combat.
Hornet Air Guard: a comprehensive counter-drone solution
Presented at the Forum Innovation Défense last November, the Hornet Air Guard weapon station demonstrates Arquus’s ability to rapidly adapt its systems to emerging threats. Building on the strengths of the French remote-controlled weapon station industry: firing accuracy, optronics performance and open architecture, it delivers a complete solution for detecting, identifying and neutralizing hostile drones. A key innovation enables the weapon station to detect a threat through 360° and automatically cue the optronic system to accelerate identification.
Cockerill® i-X: the next-generation interception vehicle
John Cockerill Defense also presents the Cockerill® i-X, a high-mobility interception vehicle designed to meet the needs of special forces and rapid reaction units. Born from the fusion of technological excellence in weapons systems and rally-raid performance expertise, the Cockerill® i-X breaks with traditional concepts and establishes a new paradigm for ground military operations.
With this innovative concept, John Cockerill Defense illustrates its vision of agile, connected tactical mobility, adapted to new forms of conflict and to reconnaissance, interception and high-intensity combat operations.
Cockerill® 3105: A Proven Solution for the Modernization of Leopard 1 Main Battle Tanks, Already Tested in Operations in Ukraine
Providing a rapid and practical response to today’s requirements for fire support, mobility, firepower and protection, John Cockerill Defense showcases the Cockerill® 3105 turret integrated onto a Leopard 1 platform, demonstrating its modernization and integration capabilities.
The Cockerill® 3105 combines a 105 mm cannon with a next-generation fire control system and advanced battlefield connectivity features. Designed for maximum versatility, the turret supports both direct and indirect fire missions, significantly expanding its tactical employment.
With an elevation angle of up to 42°, it can engage targets in complex environments, including urban areas and rugged terrain, while also providing high-angle fire support. Its modular architecture enables integration onto a wide range of platforms, delivering a precise and rapidly deployable strike capability.
Cockerill® 1030: A Lightweight Solution with Outstanding Firepower
Lightweight, accurate, multi-mission, amphibious-capable and offering significant firepower, the Cockerill® 1030 is designed to meet the requirements of today’s and tomorrow’s armed forces.
Weighing less than 1.5 tonnes with Level 2 ballistic protection, featuring a compact 1.5 m turret ring diameter, and capable of accommodating up to 200 rounds, it is equipped with two digital sighting systems, can elevate up to 70°, and supports the integration of a wide range of accessories including anti-tank missiles, rockets, Active Protection Systems (APS), and 360° close-range observation systems.
The Cockerill® 1030 is the ideal weapon system for a broad spectrum of vehicles and missions, including Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs), Infantry Fighting Vehicles (IFVs), counter-UAV operations and amphibious platforms. With more than 1,000 turrets currently in service worldwide, John Cockerill Defense has developed unmatched expertise in reliability and performance, directly benefiting the Cockerill® 1030.
CLWS 25 mm: Remote Precision and Enhanced Protection
John Cockerill Defense also presents the Cockerill® Light Weapon System (CLWS), a remotely operated turret armed with a 25 mm cannon. Compact and highly agile, the CLWS features day/night observation capabilities, stabilized firing, and seamless integration into digital battlefield networks, enabling highly accurate engagements while keeping the operator protected. Its precision and modularity reinforce its strategic value in multi-domain combat environments. In the future, the CLWS will serve as the foundation for John Cockerill Defense’s Counter Unmanned Aerial System (CUAS) solution. Thanks to its agility, precision and modular design, it will provide an effective response to the growing threat posed by drones and other light aerial platforms.
The Cockerill ® CPWS: A Modular Turret Integrated onto the M113
John Cockerill Defense also showcases the Cockerill® CPWS, a lightweight remotely operated weapon station equipped with a unique convertible roof hatch offering four operating modes: fully closed for protection, slightly open for sniper operations, raised for observation, and fully open for emergency egress or maintenance. The Cockerill® CPWS is a modular turret capable of integrating several weapon systems, including a 25×137 mm cannon (such as the M242) or a 30×113 mm cannon (such as the M230LF), combined with a 7.62 mm coaxial machine gun. The turret is integrated onto an M113 vehicle displayed on the John Cockerill Defense stand. The same turret is also exhibited on the Arquus stand.
Innovative Simulation Solutions for Operational Readiness of Land Forces
As a specialist in military simulation and training, John Cockerill Defense, through its AGUERIS brand, develops solutions that support armed forces in acquiring, maintaining and enhancing operational skills.
Leveraging state-of-the-art immersive technologies, the company offers a comprehensive portfolio of tools enabling crews and maintenance personnel to train under realistic conditions while reducing the costs and constraints associated with operating real systems.
Among the solutions presented is the Cabin Simulator, designed to faithfully replicate the operators’ working environment. By reproducing all interfaces, controls and system functions, it enables crews to train in procedures, target acquisition, engagement and tactical coordination within an immersive virtual environment.
Finally, AGUERIS also develops maintenance simulators dedicated to training technicians and maintainers. By reproducing diagnostic procedures, disassembly, repair and reassembly operations within an interactive virtual environment, these tools accelerate personnel qualification while reducing equipment downtime and improving fleet availability through enhanced mastery of complex maintenance procedures.
Through this comprehensive portfolio, John Cockerill Defense addresses today’s operational readiness challenges by delivering immersive, flexible and cost-effective training solutions. Complementing the company’s weapon systems, these capabilities form part of an integrated approach designed to maximize user effectiveness throughout the entire equipment life cycle.
Refurbishment Capabilities: Giving Existing Platforms a Second Life
In the current context of military capability regeneration and cost control, refurbishment represents a particularly relevant solution. By extending platform service life, enhancing performance and accelerating the return to operational readiness, John Cockerill Defense provides armed forces with a pragmatic, rapid and cost-effective response to today’s and tomorrow’s capability challenges.
As armed forces seek to strengthen capabilities while controlling investment costs, refurbishment has become an increasingly attractive option. Leveraging its expertise in weapon systems and armored vehicles, John Cockerill Defense offers a comprehensive range of modernization, renovation and support services aimed at extending equipment life while improving operational performance.
This approach encompasses the entire platform life cycle, including technical assessments, obsolescence management, integration of new systems, equipment upgrades and return to operational service. Modernization programs may involve weapon systems, electronic architectures, fire control systems and communication capabilities.
At Eurosatory 2026, John Cockerill Defense illustrates this expertise through two demonstrators. The first is a modernized M113 fitted with a Cockerill CSE 90LP turret, highlighting the upgrade potential of one of the world’s most widely deployed platforms. The second is a Leopard 1 equipped with the Cockerill® 3105 turret, providing this proven main battle tank with renewed combat effectiveness through a 105 mm firepower capability and state-of-the-art fire control systems.
These demonstrators showcase John Cockerill Defense’s ability to transform existing platforms into systems fully adapted to the demands of the modern battlefield while reducing the time and cost associated with procuring entirely new equipment. This expertise is further supported by comprehensive Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) capabilities covering heavy repairs, refurbishment, obsolescence management, spare parts manufacturing and logistics support. Combined with maintenance and training services, this offering ensures long-term operational availability.
By enabling armed forces to modernize existing fleets rather than replace them, John Cockerill Defense delivers a pragmatic response to today’s challenges of rearmament, operational readiness and defense budget optimization.
More than a collection of brands, John Cockerill Defense is now a community of expertise united by the same commitment to excellence and the same determination to anticipate the requirements of tomorrow’s battlefields.