Could the French Arquus VLRA truck become the solution to Argentina’s tactical fleet renewal?.

As reported by Zona Militar on December 18, 2024, the Argentine Army is conducting technical-operational evaluations (ETO) of tactical military trucks as part of its efforts to modernize its aging fleet. This initiative stems from the need to replace vehicles such as the Mercedes-Benz Unimog, of which only 1,300 remain operational out of 3,000 originally delivered over sixty years ago. One of the key contenders in this initiative is the VLRA, with the French company Arquus having delivered a VLRA 4x4 truck to Argentina for evaluation.
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The VLRA, introduced in 1967 by ACMAT, is a family of French tactical vehicles originally designed for countries with limited budgets, featuring part commonality and interchangeability across models and generations to facilitate maintenance. (Picture source: Arquus)

The modernization program, launched in June 2024, calls for 4x4 trucks with a payload capacity of 1.5 to 2.5 tonnes. The program requires manufacturers to provide vehicles for testing and to propose technology transfer opportunities that would enable local production of components. The French VLRA 4x4 will be tested by the Argentine Army's General Directorate of Organization and Doctrine. Arquus offers the VLRA 2, which is an updated version of the original VLRA, a model with over 12,000 units sold globally. The VLRA 2 is designed for military applications and includes 4x4 and 6x6 variants, as well as specialized configurations such as logistics and civil security vehicles.

The VLRA 2 features a 175-horsepower Deutz 1013 engine, a six-speed mechanical transmission, and a range of up to 1,000 kilometers. It can reach a top speed of 110 km/h and navigate slopes of 60% and side inclines of 30%. The vehicle accommodates a crew of three in its cab and can transport up to 16 soldiers in its cargo area, depending on the configuration. It is equipped for various operational environments, with features such as extreme cold-start capability at -32°C, a centralized tire inflation system, blackout lighting, and GPS. Optional mission-specific equipment includes winches, water tanks, and multiple communication systems, including UHF, VHF, and HF radios.

The VLRA family includes more than 70 variants, such as troop carriers, logistics trucks, ambulances, mortar carriers, and command posts. Arquus emphasizes compatibility across its product line, with standardized components designed for maintenance efficiency. Some variants include armored options and specialized configurations for military and civilian use.

The Argentine Army's evaluation process is expected to assess whether the VLRA meets operational requirements in diverse geographic conditions. This process aligns with the broader modernization strategy of replacing older vehicles, including the Fiat 697 and Mercedes-Benz 2624. Current inventory includes models like the Iveco Eurocargo, Volkswagen Constellation, and other trucks of varying configurations from manufacturers such as Shaanxi, Oshkosh, and M939 series.

Arquus's VLRA 2 builds on the legacy of the VLRA 1, originally introduced in 1967 by ACMAT, a company later integrated into Arquus. Known for its modular design and compatibility, the VLRA family has been used by numerous countries, including France, Ireland, Kenya, Morocco, and Zimbabwe. The platform supports both military and civilian applications, with configurations for reconnaissance, liaison, support, and logistics.

The Argentine Army's modernization program specifies that manufacturers must submit proposals by December 27, 2024. The evaluation will determine the VLRA’s suitability for fulfilling operational requirements and meeting the technology transfer objectives outlined in the program. The decision will contribute to shaping the army's future tactical vehicle fleet and supporting Argentina's domestic industrial capabilities.