TDV described the Pandur 8×8 EVO as a completely new generation of armoured vehicle developed and manufactured entirely in the Czech Republic. The vehicle incorporates advanced technologies, high ballistic and mine protection, and active defence systems, including the Iron Fist system developed in cooperation with Israeli partners.
Introducing the Pandur 8×8 EVO – the next generation Czech armored vehicle!
A state-of-the-art wheeled combat vehicle that raises the bar in protection, mobility, and firepower. Completely developed and produced in Kopřivnice, including the UT30MK2 turret system. pic.twitter.com/JDicxEfuWx
— Czechoslovak Group (@CSG_HOLDING) May 28, 2025
According to TDV, the vehicle is designed for modern combat environments and features artificial intelligence applications integrated with advanced sensory equipment. Radomír Smolka, TDV’s Director of Research and Development, stated: “The Pandur 8×8 EVO features advanced ballistic and mine protection that meets the highest military standards for this vehicle class.”
The vehicle is intended primarily for export markets but meets all NATO and Czech Army standards. It offers a modular platform that allows for a variety of configurations, including infantry fighting vehicle, fire support, reconnaissance, anti-drone defence, command, and engineering roles.
At IDET 2025, the Pandur 8×8 EVO was presented in the infantry fighting vehicle (IFV) variant, equipped with a Czech-produced unmanned weapon station featuring a 30 mm Mk.44S Bushmaster II automatic cannon. The weapon station also includes a machine gun, Spike anti-tank guided missiles, and fully stabilised optoelectronic sights with both daytime and thermal imaging capabilities.
The vehicle’s AI-based situational awareness system supports battlefield analysis, early threat detection, and enhanced command and control functions. “This system helps vehicle crews better understand battlefield dynamics, evaluate combat scenarios, and receive early warnings of threats,” Smolka added.
TDV emphasised that the Pandur 8×8 EVO is a product of full domestic development and manufacturing, unlike foreign suppliers that only offer final assembly in the Czech Republic. CEO Tomáš Mohapl stated: “TDV is a full-fledged domestic developer and manufacturer,” noting that this ensures reliable deliveries and servicing even during international crises.
The company has collaborated with GDELS, a European subsidiary of General Dynamics, to develop the platform under a previously acquired licence. The transfer of weapons station production to the Czech Republic was made possible through partnership with an Israeli company.
According to an EY study cited by TDV, domestic production of the vehicle could generate significant economic benefits, returning 2.4 times each crown invested in the project to the Czech economy. “The share of domestic companies in the project reaches at least 67% of the purchase price of the vehicles,” Mohapl said.
TDV aims to prioritise export orders and is already responding to global demand for the platform, which has reached into the hundreds of units. The company confirmed that domestic production capacity is flexible and can be adapted swiftly to meet the needs of the Czech Armed Forces.
Design features of the Pandur 8×8 EVO also reflect lessons learned from the war in Ukraine, particularly in countering drone threats. The vehicle employs programmable ammunition, Iron Fist active defence, and its own onboard UAV for reconnaissance or precision strikes.
A modernised powerpack enhances mobility, allowing rapid repositioning in conflict zones. The Pandur 8×8 EVO and other variants from the Pandur family were displayed near Pavilion P at IDET 2025, showcasing the platform’s versatility for both domestic and foreign customers.
