Exclusive: Ukraine Deploys Spanish-Made Alakran Mortar Systems in First-Ever Combat Use.

The Ukrainian Army now utilizes the Spanish-made Alakran self-propelled mortar system, marking its first-ever use in active military operations. These state-of-the-art mortar systems, integrated into URO VAMTAC 4x4 tactical vehicles and supplied by Spain, are currently operated by Ukraine's 210th Separate Assault Regiment, significantly boosting their mobile artillery capabilities on the battlefield.
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Ukrainian soldiers operate the Spanish-made Alakran self-propelled mortar system mounted on a URO VAMTAC 4x4 tactical vehicle. (Picture source: Ukrainian army)

The URO VAMTAC (Vehículo de Alta Movilidad Táctico) is a versatile 4x4 light tactical vehicle designed and manufactured by the Spanish company UROVESA (URO Vehículos Especiales S.A.). Known for its exceptional off-road capabilities, high mobility, and robust design, the VAMTAC is often compared to the U.S. Humvee in terms of performance and versatility. It is widely used by military forces for a variety of roles, including troop transport, reconnaissance, command and control, and as a platform for weapons systems like the Alakran self-propelled mortar. The vehicle is powered by a reliable turbocharged diesel engine, providing both speed and durability in challenging environments, with a payload capacity that supports mission adaptability. The VAMTAC's modular design allows for rapid configuration to meet different operational requirements, making it a key asset for modern armed forces.

The Alakran is recognized as the world’s lightest mobile mortar carrier system, engineered for high firepower, extreme precision, and ultra-mobility. It is specifically designed to address the critical tactical challenges encountered on high-intensity battlefields. The system features dual compatibility, capable of integrating 120mm and 81mm smoothbore or rifled mortars. One of its standout features is its patented barrel cooling system, allowing for sustained fire at a rate of 16 rounds per minute without time limitations.

The Alakran is equipped with a fully digital Fire Control System (FCS) that ensures precise and accurate strikes. This includes automatic aiming and re-aiming after each shot, achieving an accuracy of less than 2 mils, which translates to a deviation of only 2 meters at a range of 1 kilometer. Its lightweight design and high mobility make it suitable for rapid deployment, allowing integration onto almost any 4×4 vehicle and enabling helicopter transport.

The Alakran system is developed by Milanion NTGS, an integrated technology and engineering company serving the global defense and security sectors. Headquartered in the UK, with R&D, engineering, and manufacturing facilities in Spain and the UAE, Milanion NTGS specializes in designing and delivering advanced multi-platform mobile mortar systems. The company’s solutions are combat-proven and utilized by international defense forces.

The integration of the Alakran mortar systems into the Ukrainian Armed Forces represents a significant enhancement of their artillery capabilities. The adoption of these systems by the 210th Separate Assault Regiment highlights Ukraine’s commitment to modernizing its military assets amid ongoing regional tensions. This deployment not only marks the first combat use of the Alakran system but also underscores the strengthening defense cooperation between Spain and Ukraine. The provision of such advanced military technology is expected to bolster Ukraine’s operational effectiveness in a variety of combat scenarios.

As the situation develops, the performance of the Alakran in active combat will offer valuable insights into its operational effectiveness and potential future applications within the Ukrainian Armed Forces.

Since the onset of the conflict in Ukraine, Spain has progressively escalated its military support to bolster Ukraine's defense capabilities. In May 2024, Spain and Ukraine formalized a bilateral security agreement, committing €1 billion in military aid for the year. This package encompasses a range of military equipment, including Leopard 2A4 tanks, artillery systems, and Patriot missiles.

By November 2024, Spain had delivered armaments valued at €600 million, with an additional €300 million slated for future dispatch. The delivered assets comprise armored vehicles, ammunition, and air defense systems. Notably, Spain has supplied 10 Leopard 2A4 tanks and multiple M113 armored personnel carriers to enhance Ukraine's armored capabilities.

Beyond equipment, Spain has contributed to training Ukrainian military personnel. In early 2023, Spain trained 55 Ukrainian tank crew members and technicians on the operation and maintenance of Leopard 2 tanks, facilitating effective integration of these systems into Ukraine's armed forces.

This sustained support underscores Spain's commitment to Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity, reflecting a broader European effort to assist Ukraine amid ongoing hostilities.