Spanish army to get modernized VRC-105 antitank 8x8 vehicles.

In February 2024, in a determined effort to enhance its defense and reconnaissance capabilities, the Spanish Army announced significant investments for the modernization of its fleet of Centauro reconnaissance and combat cavalry vehicles. With contracts amounting to 5.3 and 3.5 million euros respectively, this initiative marks a key step in the continuous improvement plan for military equipment, aiming to keep the Spanish armed forces at the forefront of technology and operational efficiency.
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Spanish Centauro 105mm 8X8 anti-tank armored vehicle (Picture source: Wikimedia)

The Centauros' robust design and advanced armament are at the heart of this strategic update. Designed as an 8x8 wheeled tank destroyer for light to medium territorial defense and tactical reconnaissance, the 105mm Centauro is a centerpiece of Spain's cavalry arsenal. Its 105 mm rifled gun designed by Oto Melara, is capable of firing standard NATO ammunition used in the L7 and M68 guns, including APFSDS projectiles, and offers impressive firepower. The vehicle is also equipped with a coaxial 7.62 mm MG 42/59 machine gun to the left of the main armament, with the possibility of adding a 7.62 mm or 12.7 mm machine gun on the turret roof for anti-aircraft defense.

Protecting a crew of four – driver, commander, gunner, and loader – the hull and turret of the Centauro, made of all-welded steel armor, protect against small arms fire and shell splinters. Over the frontal arc, the vehicle withstands penetration from 20 mm projectiles and offers protection against 12.7 mm caliber attacks all around.

The modernization undertaken by the Spanish Army is not limited to the improvement of armament and protection. The recent tender procedures also include measures for the acquisition of spare parts and maintenance, thus ensuring the durability and operational responsiveness of the Centauros. An additional budget of seven million euros has been allocated for the purchase of 105 mm ammunition, highlighting the importance of this vehicle in Spain's defensive strategy.

The update program, initiated in 2021, also aims to strengthen rocket protection through the installation of grille armor or equivalents, particularly effective in asymmetric combat and urban environments. Moreover, particular attention is paid to improving the vehicle's vision systems to increase the capacity for detecting, recognizing, and identifying targets at a distance.

In anticipation of the future, the Spanish Army has also begun the process of replacing the Centauro B1s, in service for two decades. With 84 vehicles currently in service, manufactured by an Italian consortium including Iveco and Oto Melara (now Leonardo), the army envisions a transition to a platform that will meet future requirements, while emphasizing that the concept of the Centauro, dating from the late 80s and early 90s, remains fully relevant due to its high tactical and strategic mobility.

These investments and modernization initiatives reflect Spain's commitment to maintaining an army equipped with high-performance means, capable of effectively facing contemporary security and defense challenges.