Israel to purchase hundreds of JLTV armored vehicles in major modernization effort.

On November 24, 2024, the Israeli Ministry of Defense announced that the ministerial committee for equipping and power building approved several procurement and modernization projects for the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). These projects include replacing the Nirit (Saar 4.5) fleet and acquiring hundreds of Joint Light Tactical Vehicles (JLTVs), designated locally as "Para."
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The JLTV program was developed to replace the High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle (HMMWV or Humvee) and provide improved survivability and mobility. (Picture source: Oshkosh Defense)

The JLTVs, manufactured by Oshkosh Defense in the United States, are intended to replace the IDF’s aging fleets of Humvees and M113 armored personnel carriers. This acquisition aims to modernize the IDF’s vehicle inventory with more advanced systems. The initial order of 75 JLTVs was made in December 2023 through the U.S. Foreign Military Sales (FMS) mechanism. Additional units were acquired via Direct Commercial Sales (DCS). By November 2024, some JLTVs were observed in IDF operations, indicating their active deployment.

The initial JLTV procurement is part of a broader U.S. military aid package announced in March 2024, valued at approximately $30 million. With a unit cost of $400,000, the package also includes laser-guided missiles, artillery shells, night-vision devices, and bunker-buster munitions. The JLTVs feature armored components produced by Plasan, an Israeli company, through its U.S.-based subsidiary Plasan North America. The use of a "kitted hull" concept allows for pre-assembled armored cabins to be efficiently manufactured and delivered.

The JLTV program was developed to replace the High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle (HMMWV or Humvee). The vehicles are designed to provide improved survivability and mobility. Key features include a V-shaped hull for blast protection, scalable armor, and an independent suspension system for off-road performance. The JLTV is powered by a 6.6-liter diesel engine and a six-speed automatic transmission, offering a range of up to 480 kilometers and a maximum speed of 110 kilometers per hour. It can be equipped with a variety of weapons, including machine guns, automatic grenade launchers, and anti-tank guided missiles.

The IDF plans to deploy JLTVs within motorized brigades, including the Paratrooper and Kfir Brigades, to replace older M113 armored personnel carriers. These vehicles are adapted for use in urban and off-road environments. The acquisition aligns with international trends, as other countries such as Belgium, Brazil, Lithuania, and Romania have also adopted the JLTV program. By mid-2023, Oshkosh Defense reported the production of over 20,000 units.

Variants of the JLTV program include the hybrid-electric eJLTV and unmanned platforms for specialized roles. These developments reflect the program’s adaptation to evolving operational requirements. Alongside the planned introduction of JLTVs, the approval to replace the Nirit fleet represents broader efforts to upgrade the IDF’s equipment while integrating domestic production capabilities. These initiatives address operational needs and align with regional security considerations.