France has begun a competition to select its own hardshell-humvee-type vehicle. This is to be an off-the-shelf vehicle with four wheels, armor to stop rifle bullets and shell splinters, some cargo capacity, and provision for a roof-mounted weapon. (The hardtop version of the Humvee would work.) Three French companies and Vickers Defense are bidding for the deal, which involves up to 1500 vehicles. To be known as the Petit Vehicule Protg (Protected Light Vehicle), it will cover the gap between the Panhard P4 light armored car and the VBL armored jeep.--Stephen V Cole