John Cockerill Defense has introduced the FENRIS, a next-generation 6×6 armoured combat vehicle designed to deliver high mobility and powerful direct-fire capability for modern land forces. Unveiled at Eurosatory 2026, the new platform combines the engineering expertise of John Cockerill Defense and Arquus, marking the first major combat vehicle developed since Arquus became part of the John Cockerill Group.
FENRIS distinguishes itself as the only 26-tonne 6×6 combat vehicle currently available with a high-pressure 105 mm NATO-standard gun. The platform has been developed to meet the growing operational demand for rapidly deployable direct-fire support systems capable of operating across diverse combat environments while maintaining exceptional mobility and firepower.
Built on a newly developed proprietary 6×6 chassis engineered by Arquus, FENRIS is powered by a 500-horsepower engine that delivers high torque and reliable performance while maintaining a low acoustic signature. The vehicle has been designed for rapid strategic deployment and can be transported by A400M aircraft, allowing armed forces to respond quickly to evolving operational requirements.
The vehicle incorporates an advanced active suspension system and central tyre inflation technology, enabling crews to adjust ground clearance and vehicle positioning based on terrain conditions. This flexibility improves off-road performance while allowing the vehicle to reduce its profile during combat, enhancing protection by taking advantage of hull-down firing positions typically associated with heavier main battle tanks.
At the core of the platform is the Cockerill 3105 turret equipped with a high-pressure 105 mm cannon compatible with the full range of NATO-standard ammunition. The lightweight turret integrates a modern digital fire-control system enhanced with artificial intelligence to improve target acquisition, engagement accuracy and battlefield awareness. Its stabilised weapon system provides wide elevation angles, allowing effective engagement of elevated positions, reverse slopes, urban structures and indirect fire missions when required.
FENRIS also incorporates integrated counter-drone capability through the latest version of the HORNET-S commander sight. Combining advanced radar sensors with a remotely operated 7.62 mm weapon station, the system enables crews to detect and neutralise aerial threats while retaining observation and close-defence capabilities within a compact turret configuration.
The platform has been designed to support a wide range of operational missions, including reconnaissance, direct fire support and rapid-response deployments. Its combination of mobility, firepower and transportability makes it particularly suitable for countries where infrastructure, terrain or logistics limit the deployment of heavier tracked combat vehicles.
According to John Cockerill Defense, FENRIS is intended to complement rather than replace main battle tanks by providing reconnaissance formations and infantry units with a highly mobile, versatile and responsive combat capability. The vehicle delivers the firepower required to engage armoured threats while maintaining the speed and flexibility essential for modern expeditionary operations.
The unveiling of FENRIS reflects John Cockerill Defense’s expanding portfolio of advanced land systems and highlights the strategic integration of Arquus’ vehicle expertise with the company’s proven weapon technologies. Together, the two organisations aim to provide armed forces worldwide with innovative combat platforms designed to address the evolving demands of contemporary battlefields.
