Spanish Army orders 350 new ambulances for €93 million to improve medical evacuation capabilities.

As reported by Infodefensa on January 5, 2024, the Spanish Army plans to modernize its ambulance fleet, acquiring up to 350 new vehicles over the next four years at a total cost of €93.2 million, including taxes. The tender is being managed by the Army Logistics Support Command (MALE) and has entered its final stage, with bids closing on December 23, 2024. Approved by the Council of Ministers in November 2024, the contract is intended to replace older vehicles, ensure ambulance coverage for military units, and provide healthcare capabilities in national and operational zones.
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The Spanish Army’s existing ambulance fleet includes road ambulances for evacuations from bases and barracks, all-terrain ambulances for transfers between tactical medical posts and rear facilities, and high tactical mobility vehicles for evacuations to forward medical posts. (Picture source: Spanish MoD)

This initiative is divided into two separate contracts. The first contract consists of 50 road ambulances, including 14 configured for Advanced Life Support (SVA) and 36 for Basic Life Support (SVB), at a cost of €12 million. The second contract involves 300 all-terrain ambulances, evenly split between SVA and SVB configurations, valued at €81 million. Unit prices range from €145,000 for SVB road ambulances to €278,300 for SVA all-terrain ambulances. This effort is part of a broader Ministry of Defense framework agreement, approved earlier, which allocates €108.7 million over four years, with an optional two-year extension, for ambulance procurement across all branches of the Armed Forces.

The Spanish Army’s existing ambulance fleet includes road ambulances for evacuations from bases and barracks, all-terrain ambulances for transfers between tactical medical posts and rear facilities, and high tactical mobility vehicles for evacuations to forward medical posts. These vehicles can be configured for either basic or advanced life support, or for casualty transport without medical attendance, depending on operational needs.

As part of this modernization effort, the Army ordered six high-mobility armored ambulances in August 2024 from the Spanish manufacturer Urovesa. These vehicles, part of the Vamtac ST5 series, were purchased for €4.6 million. The ambulances include a medical cell equipped with electromedical devices, diagnostic tools, immobilization equipment, and treatment supplies. They also feature armor for the cabin and medical compartment to protect against ballistic threats and mines, as well as NBC collective protection systems. The vehicles are designed to cross watercourses up to 1.5 meters deep.

The Vamtac ST5, used for various military purposes, is equipped with a 218-horsepower diesel engine, independent suspension, and 4x4 drivetrain. It has a maximum weight of 8.5 tons, a payload capacity of 2,500 kg, a range of over 600 kilometers, and a top speed of 135 km/h. These specifications make it suitable for use in various terrains and operational contexts.

In addition to ambulances, the Army is acquiring other Vamtac ST5 configurations. In July 2024, it signed contracts valued at €23.6 million for 38 Vamtac units. These orders, part of a 2020 framework agreement for the delivery of up to 700 vehicles, include 18 units with BN3 protection at a cost of €11.2 million and 20 high-protection units for €12.4 million. These vehicles are intended for tasks such as towing and ammunition transport for the 105mm Light Gun howitzer. The towing variant, known as the Vamtac SK, features higher suspension and increased wheel spacing to accommodate artillery requirements.

The Spanish Army has operated Vamtac vehicles since 1998, with more than 4,500 units produced in various configurations. The modular design allows for roles such as reconnaissance, command and control, logistics, and medical support. Variants are also used for anti-tank and anti-aircraft purposes, with armaments such as TOW or Milan missiles and Mistral surface-to-air systems. The vehicles can be transported by C-130 aircraft or CH-47 Chinook helicopters.

In 2023, the Army procured over 150 Vamtac units, with plans to continue vehicle maintenance and spare parts supply. A €20 million tender has been allocated for spare parts over three years, covering more than 60 vehicle versions. An additional €9 million is dedicated to vehicle maintenance.

This modernization program is intended to align the ambulance fleet and logistical vehicles with current operational requirements, ensuring consistent performance across domestic and international missions. The Army emphasizes that these upgrades will support readiness and improve healthcare and logistical capabilities for military units.