Ecuador to deploy its South African Mbombe 6 6x6 armored vehicles to combat terrorism and drug trafficking.

On May 10, 2024, the 3rd Manabí Mechanized Cavalry Brigade of the Ecuadorian Army received its first Mbombe 6 6x6 armored vehicles, manufactured by the South African company Paramount Group. The Ecuadorian Army purchased these 6x6 armored vehicles for military operations aimed at combating terrorist groups such as the FARC and drug trafficking organizations operating along the northern border.
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The decision to adopt the Mbombe 6 6x6 was largely influenced by its advanced protection capabilities against prevalent threats such as improvised explosive devices (IEDs), antipersonnel mines, and unexploded ordnance, which are significant along the Ecuadorian northern border (Picture source: Ecuadorian Army)

The acquisition of the Mbombe 6 6x6 armored vehicles was made through the Israeli company Elbit Systems and Paramount Group. According to the information available, these armored vehicles will be equipped with a mobile software-defined radio network solution, E-LynX, a suite of battle management applications, and the Magni mini vertical takeoff and landing UAS.

The first batch of Mbombe 6 armored vehicles was received by the Ecuadorian Army as part of a larger acquisition by the Latin American National Defense Forces and the Southern African Development Community (SADC), announced last year by Paramount at the Defence and Security Equipment International (DSEI) event in London. Although the Latin American client was not initially disclosed, it became evident that Ecuador is likely the recipient of these 20 military vehicles.

The decision to adopt Paramount's Mbombe 6 was largely influenced by its advanced protection capabilities against prevalent threats such as improvised explosive devices (IEDs), antipersonnel mines, and unexploded ordnance. These threats are significant along the Ecuadorian northern border and pose substantial risks to personnel across various operational environments, including border, rural, and urban settings. The Mbombe 6 complies with the STANAG 4569 standard, providing class 3 protection, including resilience against 7.62×51 caliber armor-piercing rounds.

Its mine-resistant design, featuring a V-shaped hull capable of withstanding detonations up to 10 kg in TNT equivalent, further enhances its suitability for the specified operational context. Notably, several countries, including Ukraine and Kazakhstan, have chosen the Mbombe 6 armored vehicles due to their effectiveness. Moreover, these nations are anticipated to locally produce the 6x6 vehicle under license, indicating a broader recognition of its capabilities and potential for adaptation to diverse operational requirements.

Designed to fulfill multiple military roles such as medical evacuation, personnel transport, infantry fire support, and engaging enemy armored vehicles, the Mbombe 6 is a 6x6 armored fighting vehicle powered by a turbo diesel engine generating 336 kW (450 HP) and 1,627 Nm of torque. This allows for a top speed of approximately 100 km/h and a range of about 700 kilometers on a single tank. The vehicle has a payload capacity of up to 2,300 kg, which can include various weapon systems. It can accommodate up to 11 personnel, including the driver, commander, and nine dismounts, making it suitable for troop transport and direct engagement roles.