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Ecuador Strengthens Its Fight Against Narcotrafficking with Locally-Made C.A-Hino Dutro 716 MRAP.
Ecuador has introduced its first Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicle, specifically designed to meet the operational needs of its Naval Infantry. This armored vehicle, named Blindex Armorings C.A-Hino Dutro 716, was officially deployed by the Ecuadorian Naval Infantry on October 27, 2024. This addition to Ecuador’s tactical fleet reflects the nation’s commitment to strengthening its defense industry and meeting its security requirements independently.
Designed and assembled in Ecuador with local engineering expertise, the vehicle strengthens military protection during anti-terrorism and counter-narcotics missions (Picture source: Armada del Ecuador)
The Blindex Armorings C.A-Hino Dutro 716 is built with a monocoque body in ballistic steel at NIJ Level III, providing protection against 7.62 x 51 mm NATO rounds. The vehicle’s interior is divided into two main sections: one for the driver and the other for troop transport, with a capacity of up to ten occupants, including the driver and a gunner. Its diagonal structural design maximizes impact resistance and enhances projectile deflection. Although acquisition costs have not been disclosed, the vehicle’s innovative design and local production underscore Ecuador’s efforts to meet its security needs.
The panoramic and side windows are made from NIJ Level III ballistic glass, effectively shielding against 7.62 x 51 mm NATO rounds and equipped with additional protective features. The vehicle includes various systems aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and passenger safety, such as air conditioning, a temperature deflector, thermal insulation, front and rear security cameras, a dual intercommunication system, a fire suppression system, and a control panel. Additionally, the vehicle has a hydraulic front shovel and a 180W LED light bar for increased nighttime visibility.
The vehicle's hood and front mudguards are reinforced with NIJ Level IIIA armor, while the front and rear bumpers are bolstered with ballistic steel. The floor is armored to NIJ Level IIIA, and a top hatch is available for weapon station installation. This level of protection allows the Blindex Armorings to withstand conventional threats and adverse conditions frequently encountered in anti-terrorism and counter-narcotics missions.
An official handover ceremony for this multipurpose armored vehicle was held within the Ecuadorian Naval Infantry, attended by National Defense Minister Gian Carlo Loffredo, Admiral Jaime Vela Erazo, Chief of the Joint Command of the Armed Forces, and Admiral Miguel Córdova Chehab, General Commander of the Navy. Michele Sensi Contugi Ycaza, Director of the State Strategic Intelligence Center, formally presented the vehicle to the Ministry of Defense, underscoring Ecuador’s growing emphasis on producing defense equipment domestically to support military operations and ensure personnel safety.
The vehicle marks a significant step toward Ecuador's technological independence and fulfills the specific needs of troops operating in high-risk environments. Designed and assembled in Ecuador with local engineering expertise, the vehicle strengthens military protection during anti-terrorism and counter-narcotics missions. With NIJ Level III armor to protect against 7.62 x 51 mm NATO rounds, the Blindex Armorings C.A-Hino Dutro 716 enables troops to operate more securely, even in high-threat areas.
As a symbol of Ecuador’s expanding defense industry, the vehicle also represents a strategic asset for the country’s Naval Infantry, which has already begun using it in sensitive operations. This initial deployment will serve to evaluate the vehicle’s field performance and assess potential future acquisitions to enhance Ecuador’s response capacity to internal threats. According to military officials, this tactical vehicle is the first in a series of projects aimed at safeguarding the well-being of Ecuadorian soldiers. “This is just the beginning of many future projects to protect our troops,” stated the Chief of the Joint Command, adding that this equipment will equip Ecuador to address the country’s security challenges.
Deploying this vehicle enhances rapid response capabilities in crisis situations, optimizing military operations in sensitive zones and potentially providing Ecuador with a strategic advantage in countering internal and external threats.