Like most European countries, France also has its own infantry fighting vehicle, the AMX-10P
It was developed in 1965, to replace the AMX-VCI, one of many variants of the French AMX-13 light tank. The first AMX-10P prototypes were completed in 1968. Production commenced between 1972 and 1973. Since then, production has resumed until the late 1980s, only maintained for exports. The French IFV, now replaced by the 8×8 VBCI, was declined into around fifteen versions and sold to nine countries.
The AMX-10P has a weight of about 14.2 tons, a length of 5.8 m, a width of 2.78 m, and a height of 1.87 m. The Hull consists of wrought and welded aluminum plates. It is rectangular in shape, with a sloping and pointed glaze. A wave-shield of rectangular shape covers the front part of the glaze. The driver is located on the left of the glacis and has three episcopes, including one adapted to night vision and an access hatch. Frontal arc provides protection against 14.5 mm rounds. All-round protection is against small arms bullets and artillery shell splinters only. Vehicle is fitted with NBC protection system.
Vehicle is powered by the Hispano-Suiza HS-115 supercharged diesel engine, developing 276 horsepower. The AMX-10P is fully amphibious and fords water obstacles without preparation. On water it is powered by two waterjets. AMX-10P can reach a maximum speed of 65 km / h, an operating range of 600 km.
Standard AMX-10P turrets are equipped with a GIAT M693 automatic cannon firing two different types of both high explosive ammunition and armour-piercing ammunition. More than one ammunition type may be loaded at once and fired alternatively. The high explosive rounds have a muzzle velocity of 1,050 m/s, while the latest armour-piercing round has a muzzle velocity of 1,300 m/s and is capable of penetrating 20 mm of rolled homogeneous armour at an incidence of 60°. The autocannon has a cyclic rate of fire of 740 rounds per minute, with the gunner being able to switch between semiautomatic, limited burst, or fully automatic fire as necessary.
Secondary armament consists of coaxial 7.62 mm machine gun. Some IFVs are fitted with two MILAN ATGW launchers. These vehicles carry 10 anti-tank missiles inside the hull.
