IDEX 2025: IAG debuts Rila 6×6, European factory set to produce first Rila 8×8

The Rila 6×6 shows a strong resemblance to the earlier development model of the Rila 8×8 and is understood to be developed in response to market needs for shorter and lighter APCs. (Janes/Christopher Petrov)

United Arab Emirates (UAE)-based International Armored Group (IAG) debuted a new 6×6 armoured personnel carrier (APC) at the International Defence Exhibition & Conference (IDEX) 2025 held in Abu Dhabi from 17 to 21 February. IAG has also confirmed to Janes that its new facility located in Bulgaria will produce a Rila 8×8 APC in the near future.

The Rila 6×6 is advertised as an infantry fighting vehicle (IFV) by IAG, and in part this is due to it being developed to integrate a 90 mm gun for fire-support roles, while also offering options for conventional 25–30 mm cannon turrets. The weight of the vehicle varies between 15 and 18 tonnes, with the vehicle being up to 7.2 m long, 2.82 m wide, and 3.5 m tall (depending on the final design and turret choice). The crew is envisaged to be in a 3+6 configuration, with protection being advertised at STANAG 4569 level three for kinetic and artillery threats and at level four a/b for mine blast protection. The vehicle is designed to utilise blast-attenuating seats as part of its mine protection for the crew.

IAG, who pitched the Rila 8×8 to the Bulgarian Army, was also involved in the establishment of a production facility near the Black Sea city of Burgas, Bulgaria. Although the Bulgarians opted for the Stryker family of 8×8s in September 2023 via the US' Foreign Military Sales programme, IAG remains committed in utilising its new facility to construct the Rila 8×8.