Spain acquires Uro Vamtac ST5 armored ambulances for €6.8 Mn.

As reported by InfoDefensa on October 10, 2023, the Spanish Army has planned to augment its fleet of armored ambulances through a 6.8 million euro investment, inclusive of taxes. This investment aims to procure an unspecified quantity of Urovesa Vamtac ST5 vehicles configured as armored ambulances, with the delivery scheduled for completion by December 15th.
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Uro Vamtac ST5 armored ambulance in service with the Spanish Army (Picture source: Spanish Army)

The medical version of the ST5 is designed to provide both ballistic and anti-mine protection, not only in the cabin but also in the medical area. This feature ensures the safety of medical personnel while maintaining the mobility required for military operations. The ST5 armored ambulance has a medical compartment equipped with essential electromedical devices, immobilization equipment, diagnostic tools, and treatment materials.

In addition to expanding its medical vehicle fleet, the Spanish Army has recently enhanced its capabilities further by acquiring Vamtac vehicles designed for towing and supplying Light Gun pieces. This acquisition, valued at 9.3 million euros, includes two configurations, one for towing the 105mm Light Gun howitzer and the other for transporting its ammunition. These specialized vehicles are built on the Vamtac ST5 platform, characterized by higher suspension heights and increased wheel spacing.

The Vamtac SK, as these models are known, is powered by a Steyr engine, delivering 217 horsepower and a displacement of 3,200 cm³. This engine power surpasses the capabilities of the previous Uro Mat-18.16 tractor. The Vamtac SK retains permanent 4x4 transmission with a transfer differential and a high and low gear system, ensuring it can operate on side slopes of up to 40% and overcome steep inclines of up to 78%, ensuring maneuverability even in challenging terrains.

The tow vehicle version is designed to transport both the howitzer crew and the howitzer itself, along with its equipment, all on a single platform. It offers ample space for immediate-use transport of up to eight rounds and includes provisions for establishing a fixed communication network if needed. The ammunition transport variant is well-equipped to carry the necessary ammunition, providing versatility and various configuration options.

Developed by UROVESA, the Vamtac, which stands for "Vehículos de Alta Movilidad Táctica" or Vehicles of High Tactical Mobility, has gained international recognition, especially in its ST5 variant, serving armed forces worldwide, including the Dominican Republic, Morocco, Romania, and Venezuela. It has played roles in various missions, from Afghanistan to Congo and Lebanon. One of the key attributes of the ST5 is its high level of protection. It can withstand ballistic impacts, mines, and IEDs, and provides NBC (Nuclear, Biological, and Chemical) protection.

The modular design of the Vamtac allows for various configurations, making it adaptable for roles such as reconnaissance, command and control, logistics, and medical support. Additionally, it can be customized as an ambulance, an anti-tank vehicle armed with TOW or Milan anti-tank guided missiles, or an anti-aircraft vehicle equipped with Mistral surface-to-air missiles.

In terms of armament, the Vamtac can be armed with various weapons, including machine guns, grenade launchers, anti-tank guided missiles, mortars, recoilless rifles, or air defense missile systems. Its transportability by C-130 transport aircraft and compatibility with the CH-47 Chinook helicopter for external carriage make it versatile for military operations.

With its turbocharged six-cylinder diesel engine producing 188 horsepower, the Vamtac achieves a top speed of 135 km/h and boasts a range of over 600 kilometers with its 110-liter fuel tank. Its powertrain, combined with full-time four-wheel drive, differential lock controls on both front and rear axles, and independent suspension on each wheel, enables the Vamtac to navigate slopes of up to 70% and ford water up to 750mm (1,500mm with special preparation).

The Uro Vamtac ST5 in its armored ambulance variant at the FEINDEF 2021 defense exhibition (Picture source: Army Recognition)