FEINDEF 2021: New armored ambulance vehicle based on UROVESA 4x4 VAMTAC ST5.

The Spanish company UROVESA has developed a new ambulance version of the VAMTAC 4x4 light tactical armored vehicle with a medical shelter offering a high level of protection against ballistic and mine threats. This vehicle has recently been delivered to the Portuguese army.

New ambulance protected vehicle based on the VAMTAC ST 5 4x4 light tactical armored vehicle at FEINDEF 2021, defense exhibition in Spain. (Picture source Army Recognition)

This new ambulance version is based on the VAMTAC ST5 which is an armored version of the VAMTAC. The URO VAMTAC is a 4x4 tactical vehicle that was first shown publicly in mid-1998. It bears a visual resemblance to the US HMMWV, due to being designed to a similar specification and to meet a corresponding requirement from the Spanish armed forces for a multipurpose, air-portable, high mobility off-road vehicle with a viable payload capacity.

The new ambulance version of the VAMTAC has a single cabin located at the front of the vehicle with one door on each side able to accommodate two people. Each door has a rectangular bullet-proof glass for observation. The rear part of the vehicle is fitted with a specific container that can incorporate all medical equipment including portable ventilator and suction units, patient isolation pods, automatic resuscitator system with extra oxygen supply tanks, advanced vitals’ monitor units, defibrillators, built-in disinfecting system, and ample personal protective equipment (PPE) with extra storage. The container has been designed to offer a high level of ballistic and mine protection according to the NATO Standard STANAG 4569.

The VAMTAC is powered by a Steyr turbocharged six-cylinder diesel engine coupled to an Allison AT-542 4-speed automatic gearbox developing 188 hp. The vehicle is able to reach a top speed of 135 km/h. The 110 l capacity fuel tank allows the vehicle to have a cruising range of over 600 km.

The full-time, four-wheel-drive vehicle demonstrates better capabilities under the most difficult conditions, with temperatures ranging from -20° to 50°. It offers a high level of mobility over all types of terrain including snow, ice, mud, sand, and rocky fields.