Colombia to equip Titan-C APC with mortars to strengthen indirect fire capabilities.

As reported by Infodefensa on December 17, 2024, the Colombian Army has begun a program to develop a self-propelled mortar variant of its domestically designed 4x4 armored personnel carrier, the Titán-C Trop. The decision is based on the vehicle’s performance in Operation Perseo, during which it was subjected to small-arms fire and rifle grenades. A prototype of the mortar-equipped version is planned for 2025, with testing to evaluate its operational functionality. The program aims to increase the vehicle’s ability to provide combined fire support through both direct and indirect fire.
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The Titán-C Trop is part of a broader armored vehicle development initiative that began in 2012 with the Titan project, launched by Colombia to replace commercially available troop carriers, such as the Chevrolet NPR. (Picture source: Wikimedia)

This new version of the Titán-C Trop APC will include a remote weapon station at the front for a Browning M2A2 QCB 12.7x99mm machine gun. It will also feature a modular system in the rear compartment for mounting 81mm mortars, such as the Thales TDA MO 81-61 C/L, Elbit Systems B-499, or ECIA L/65 81. These mortars, already in the Army’s inventory, are expected to provide effective indirect fire support with ranges exceeding 3,500 meters.

The Titán-C Trop is part of a broader armored vehicle development initiative that began in 2012 with the Titan A. The Titan project was launched to replace commercially available troop carriers, such as the Chevrolet NPR. Developed by Blindex SA under a contract from the Colombian Ministry of Defense, the Titan A underwent limited deployment before the project transitioned to a second phase, resulting in the Titan B. Between 2020 and 2021, four Titan B vehicles were produced with dual-layer BR6 ballistic armor, a V-shaped hull, and enhanced mobility systems. These vehicles demonstrated resilience during operations, particularly in Arauca, where they experienced over 70 documented attacks, including small-arms fire and grenades. The Titan series currently performs missions that include troop transport, logistics, patrols, and area control in various operational zones across Colombia.

The Titan-C Trop, the latest iteration, was developed by Integrated Defense Solutions (IDS) and Greit, who won a 2021 public tender for the platform's redesign. The current version incorporates a reduced wheelbase of 4.25 meters, 4x4 drive capability, reinforced axles, upgraded leaf springs, and an increased chassis height to improve off-road performance. With a maximum gross weight of 17,000 kilograms, the vehicle is powered by a 280-horsepower Isuzu 6HK1-TCS engine, providing a range of 600 kilometers and a power-to-weight ratio of 16.5 hp/ton. It can transport up to 23 individuals, including crew, and carry a payload of 3,500 kilograms.

The Titán-C is equipped with certified BR6 ballistic protection, a V-shaped hull for blast resistance, and Runflat tires for increased mobility. Its ballistic armor provides protection against small-arms fire, including 7.62x51mm ammunition at specific distances. The interior includes fire-retardant and waterproof materials, ergonomic seating for passengers, and provisions for weapon mounting, including FN Herstal M-249 and M-60E4 machine guns. Additionally, the platform features day and night cameras for 360-degree visibility and an integrated drone/UAV system for reconnaissance.

Operationally, the Titan series has been used in anti-insurgency and counterterrorism roles since the deployment of the Titan A. In 2023, the Colombian Army received five Titan-C units, bringing the total fleet to ten vehicles across all variants. A $230 million investment was subsequently announced to acquire 404 additional Titan-C vehicles, reflecting the platform’s role in addressing Colombia’s internal security challenges.

Several armored personnel carriers (APCs) globally are equipped with integrated mortar systems, providing indirect fire support similar to the Colombian Army’s planned upgrade of the Titán-C Trop. The French Griffon MEPAC includes a 120mm self-propelled mortar, designed for mobility and rapid deployment. Finland's Patria AMV XP can be configured with the Patria NEMO 120mm turreted mortar system, offering modular firepower. The U.S. Army employs mortar systems on platforms such as the M1064A3, based on the M113 APC, and the Stryker M1129/M1252, both using 120mm mortars. Additionally, Spain has delivered Alakran mortar systems, mounted on URO VAMTAC 4x4 tactical vehicles, to Ukraine for active operations. These vehicles reflect a global emphasis on equipping APCs with mortar systems to enhance operational flexibility and fire support capabilities.

The development of armored personnel carriers (APCs) equipped with integrated mortar systems is driven by the need for mobile and protected indirect fire support in modern military operations. These vehicles are designed to enable rapid deployment and immediate firing, improving responsiveness in dynamic combat environments. Integrating mortars into APCs minimizes the time required for movement and engagement while offering increased protection for operators against small-arms fire and shrapnel. This approach also enhances coordination and accuracy in artillery roles, reflecting a broader trend toward modular and multi-functional military platforms tailored for diverse battlefield requirements.

The decision to develop a new variant of the Titan is based on the vehicle’s performance during operations, particularly in Arauca, where they experienced over 70 documented attacks, including small-arms fire and grenades. (Picture source: Army Recognition)