Philippine Army to get first batch of VBTP-MSR Guarani 6x6 armored vehicles.

On February 25, 2024, the MaxDefense Philippines facebook page revealed photos of driver and operator training on the new VBTP-MSR Guarani 6x6 armored personnel carriers (APCs), marking a step towards integrating these units into the Philippine Army. These vehicles, not yet outfitted with weapon systems, are currently undergoing extensive field testing, indicating that the delivery of the first batch of five units is nearing completion.
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 Iveco VBTP-MSR Guarani 6x6 armored personnel carrier equipped with 12.7mm machine gun (Picture source: Iveco)

Developed in collaboration with IVECO Defence Vehicles and the Brazilian Ministry of Defense, the Guarani is designed to offer ballistic protection and amphibious capabilities, capable of transporting a team of ten infantrymen plus a driver. This acquisition falls under a $46 million contract with the Israeli company Elbit Systems, signed on February 7, 2021, for the supply of 28 Guarani 6x6 vehicles, with staggered deliveries between 2023 and 2024.

This contract is part of a broader "Government-to-Government" military agreement, orchestrated by the International Defense Cooperation Directorate of the Israeli Ministry of Defense (SIBAT), potentially envisaging 114 Guarani vehicles for the Philippine Army. The Philippine versions of the Guarani include specific additions such as ballistic protection plates for level 3 protection according to the STANAG 4569 standard, a battle management system, and a software-defined radio provided by Elbit Systems, as well as a remotely controlled weapon system (RCWS) armed with either a 12.7×99 mm (.50 BMG) or a 7.62×51 mm machine gun.

This APC is designed with armor protection against small arms fire, artillery shell splinters, and landmines, thanks to its V-shaped hull. It can also be fitted with additional composite armor for enhanced protection. The vehicle's interior is equipped with a spall liner. Propelled by a PFT diesel engine with 383 horsepower, coupled with a ZF fully automatic transmission, it achieves a maximum road speed of 100 km/h and a range of about 600 km. It can be transported by air using a C-130 Hercules and is fully amphibious, featuring two waterjets at the rear.

With already five vehicles produced and awaiting shipment after the completion of customs procedures, and the remaining 23 units in various stages of production, the integration of these APCs into the armed forces marks a significant turning point in the modernization of the Philippine Army's defensive capabilities.