Development and design
The Centauro combined an 8×8 automotive platform with a turreted 105 mm gun, while the later Centauro II redesigned protection, automotive systems, electronics, and turret around a 120 mm weapon. The family therefore spans generations rather than representing a single unchanged vehicle. 1, 2
Operational use
B1 vehicles served in Italian operations abroad and were exported. Centauro II continues the direct-fire role with improved protection and networked systems for contemporary operations. 1, 2
Role and significance
Centauro helped establish the modern heavy wheeled gun vehicle as a distinct category: faster and easier to deploy than a tank, but intended for reconnaissance support and direct fire rather than to replace the main battle tank in every mission. 1, 2
Sources and further reading
Representative source set used for this profile. Primary image source and reuse terms are listed with the image.
- IDV–OTO Melara Consortium, history of the Centauro program
- Leonardo, Centauro II contract and vehicle description