Eagle Partner 24: US and Armenian Troops Utilize Bastion Armored Personnel Carrier.

The joint military exercise Eagle Partner 24, which began on July 15, 2024, and will end on July 24, saw the use of Bastion armored personnel carriers by U.S. and Armenian troops. Designed to enhance interoperability between the United States and Armenia during peacekeeping and stability operations, this exercise is in its second iteration, having grown significantly in size and scope compared to the previous edition in September 2023.
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The 12th Armenian Peacekeeping Brigade and the Kansas National Guard used the Bastion APC during riot control training exercises, Eagle Partner 24 armed vehicle convoy exercises at Zar Training Base, Armenia, on July 16, 2024. (Picture source: US DoD)

The Bastion APC, a 4×4 armored personnel carrier, was produced by the French company ACMAT, a subsidiary of ARQUUS (formerly Renault Trucks Defense). Unveiled in June 2010 at the Eurosatory Defense Exhibition, it entered service shortly thereafter. The vehicle is now used by various African countries, among others, in multiple configurations. Built on the VLRA 2 TDN-TDE 4x4 tactical vehicle chassis, the Bastion APC offers robust off-road mobility and protection, designed to withstand small arms fire, shell splinters, and mine blasts.

It can carry ten soldiers, including the driver and commander, and is equipped with advanced features such as blast-resistant seats and optional remote weapon stations. The engine options include an MD 5.0-liter Turbo Diesel Intercooler or a Deutz engine, delivering 215 hp and enabling a maximum speed of 110 km/h with a range of 1,000 km. Its V-hull design enhances survivability against IEDs and mines by deflecting blasts away from the vehicle.

The Bastion APC is air-transportable and can be equipped with various accessories for increased operational capability. Since its inception, the Bastion APC has been employed in numerous roles, including reconnaissance, patrol, peacekeeping, and urban operations, demonstrating its versatility and reliability in diverse environments.

Although Bastion armored vehicles are not typically used by the 12th Peacekeeping Brigade, their deployment in these exercises was necessary due to the presence of American personnel, highlighting the importance of adaptability in contemporary military operations.

The Armenian 12th Peacekeeping Brigade and the Kansas National Guard trained in riot control, armed vehicle convoy exercises, medical pathways, and checkpoint training during Eagle Partner 24 at the Zar training base in Armenia on July 16, 2024. This strategic choice facilitated troop transport, ensuring increased mobility and protection for soldiers participating in the exercise. The Bastions, known for their robustness and adaptability, proved to be a valuable asset in this international cooperation.

The use of Bastions by U.S. and Armenian troops during Eagle Partner 24 illustrates not only the flexibility of military equipment in multinational contexts but also the commitment of both nations to strengthening their joint operational capabilities. This is particularly important given Armenia's concerning position regarding its relations with Azerbaijan. Russia, which is supposed to ensure the region's security and prevent conflict escalation, is increasingly less present due to the concentration of its forces in Ukraine.