Argentina negotiates acquisition of New Zealand LAV and US Stryker armored vehicles.

The United States and Argentina have entered into preliminary talks concerning the acquisition of military vehicles, specifically 9 ex-New Zealand LAV IIIs and approximately 180 Stryker 8x8s. These discussions are part of a broader initiative to enhance Argentina's military capabilities through the U.S. Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program.
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 Stryker 8x8 with a Cal .50 mounted  (Picture source US DoD )

Currently, discussions are aimed at 9 LAV III, a light armored vehicle originally used by the New Zealand Defense Forces, and at least 180 Stryker 8x8. The move to procure these vehicles reflects Argentina's ongoing efforts to modernize its defense infrastructure.

Argentina is facing the gradual destabilization of its neighbors, such as Brazil, which is experiencing an increase in cartel violence, as well as a denormalization of international relations on the South American continent. Historically, the north of Argentina has been quite permeable to drug trafficking around the Bolivian border. Therefore, it is currently essential for Argentina to equip itself with better military capabilities.

The Stryker 8x8 is a multifaceted armored combat vehicle renowned for its modular design, allowing for numerous configurations to suit various military roles such as fire support, medical evacuation, and reconnaissance. It is built on an 8x8 wheeled chassis, enhancing its mobility and speed with a top speed of approximately 60 mph and a range of 300 miles, making it ideal for rapid deployments. The Stryker's standard armament includes a .50 caliber M2 machine gun, a 40mm grenade launcher, or a 30mm cannon, depending on the variant. It features advanced composite armor which can be augmented with reactive armor and slat armor for enhanced protection against RPGs and IEDs.

 The LAV III, a third-generation light armored vehicle, is designed for reconnaissance and infantry transport, featuring an 8x8 wheeled configuration that ensures high mobility across varied terrains. It is typically equipped with a 25mm chain gun housed in a fully stabilized turret, and also mounts a 7.62 mm coaxial machine gun, offering substantial firepower. The vehicle boasts a top speed of over 100 km/h and a range of up to 450 kilometers, facilitated by a turbocharged diesel engine. For defense, the LAV III is armored against small arms fire and artillery shell fragments and can be fitted with add-on ceramic armor for additional protection against larger caliber rounds.

Details on the specifics of the agreement remain scant as talks are still in the early stages. However, the potential sale through the FMS program indicates a standard procedure for such international defense acquisitions, which includes U.S. government and regulatory oversight. This acquisition is also seen as a strategic enhancement reflecting the growing defense cooperation between Argentina and the United States.

Observers suggest that the outcome of these negotiations could have broader implications for regional security and military balance in South America. Further developments are awaited as both parties continue to deliberate terms and potential timelines for the procurement process.

This move is part of a series of efforts by the Argentine government to upgrade its military forces amidst evolving security challenges in the region. As the discussions progress, more details are expected to emerge regarding the configurations of the vehicles and the overall scope of the military upgrade plan.

LAV III developed by general dynamics (Picture source Open Source )

Defense News April 2024