General Dynamics Pandur II armored vehicles are the backbone of Portuguese Intervention Brigade.

The Pandur II 8x8 armored vehicles are now the backbone of the Intervention Brigade of the Portuguese army they were delivered in 2008 following a contract signed in 2005 with General Dynamics European Land Combat Systems for the production of 260 Pandur II combat vehicles for an amount of $482 million. Portugal was the first country to buy the Pandur II.
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Portuguese Army Pandur II IFV Infantry Fighting Vehicle version armed with one 30mm automatic cannon.  (Picture source X Account Drecas)

According to the latest information published by the Military Balance 2023, the Portuguese army has a total of 30 Pandur II in IFV (Infantry Fighting Vehicle) configuration armed with one 30mm automatic cannon and 146 Pandur II in different variants including 105 Infantry Carrier Vehicles with a 12.7 mm machine gun, 7 Infantry Carrier Vehicles with a 12.7 mm machine gun installed in a Protector M151 RWS, 16 Command Vehicles, 7 Recovery Vehicles, 8 Medical Evacuation Vehicles, 5 Anti-tank Guided Missile Launchers – variant with TOW ITAS (Tube-launched, Optically tracked, Wire-guided Improved Target Acquisition System) missile launcher, 6 Communication Vehicles and 4 Surveillance Vehicles.

Portugal's volunteer military focuses on national defense, maritime security, participation in international missions, and disaster relief efforts. The country's investment strategies are designed to enhance rapid response and maritime surveillance capabilities for both domestic defense and international missions. The Portuguese parliament has passed a military program law from 2019 to 2030, which allocates funds for the purchase of five KC-390 aircraft, six offshore patrol vessels, a refueling tanker, and a multi-purpose logistics ship, in addition to investments in cyber defense and soldier combat systems.

In 2022, a slight increase in defense spending was announced, with objectives to raise defense expenditure as a percentage of GDP by 2024. Portugal is a significant player in NATO, hosting its cyber-security academy, and actively participates in EU military frameworks. The country maintains strong ties with its former territories and the United States, particularly through the U.S. presence at Lajes Air Base. Efforts are underway across all military branches to upgrade and maintain current equipment. Although Portugal has a robust defense industry, it primarily focuses on shipbuilding, maintenance, and the production of small arms and light weaponry components.

The military power of the Portuguese army consists of 13,350 military personnel and a reserve force of 10,000 people. The Portuguese army is also equipped with 37 Leopard 2A6 MBTs (Main Battle Tanks).

The Pandur II is an advanced 8x8 wheeled armored vehicle produced by General Dynamics European Land Systems, a unit of General Dynamics Corporation. It was developed as an improved version of the original Pandur 6x6 APC (Armored Personnel Carrier) designed by Steyr-Daimler-Puch Spezialfahrzeug (now part of General Dynamics European Land Systems). The Pandur II offers enhanced mobility, firepower, and protection to meet modern battlefield requirements. It is available in various configurations including APC, IFV (Infantry Fighting Vehicle), command vehicle, ambulance, and more, making it highly adaptable for a wide range of military operations.

The Pandur II's hull provides protection against 7.62mm armor-piercing rounds. Optional add-on armor is available to counter 14.5mm armor-piercing shells from a distance of 100 meters. To enhance survivability against landmines, spall liners and extra armor can be integrated upon request. The vehicle features a raised floor, and for added safety, the cabin's seating is mounted to the walls and ceiling, avoiding direct attachment to the floor. It is outfitted with ballistic and anti-mine protection ranging from grades 1 to 4 according to STANAG 4569 standards.

Designed to operate in diverse environments, from urban areas to rugged terrain, the Pandur II features advanced armor protection, including NBC (Nuclear, Biological, and Chemical) protection systems, making it resilient against a variety of threats. Its modular design allows for the incorporation of additional armor and weapon systems depending on mission requirements. The vehicle is powered by a powerful engine, ensuring high mobility and a top speed of up to 100 km/h on roads, with the capability to traverse water obstacles. The Pandur II has been selected by several countries for its armed forces, underlining its reputation as a versatile and reliable platform for modern military operations.

Pandur II 8x8 armored vehicle of the Portuguese army. (Picture source X Account Drecas)

Defense News April 2024