UK Plans to Acquire VAMTAC Air Defense Vehicles.

The UK Ministry of Defense intends to purchase VAMTAC Rapid Ranger 4x4 air defense vehicles, as announced on July 11, 2024, at the Ground Based Air Defence (GBAD) Expo held by the British Army at Baker Barracks in Emsworth, southern UK.
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Spanish VAMTAC armored vehicle with a module for Starstreak/Martlet missiles installed (Picture source: MBDA UK)

This procurement must first receive approval from the British Parliament. The new air defense systems are intended to replace six Stormer HVM systems that were transferred to Ukraine in 2023. Furthermore, the Ministry plans to order an additional six units to enhance the existing air defense capabilities of the British Army.

The VAMTAC (Vehículo de Alta Movilidad Táctica) air defense vehicle is an extremely versatile military platform designed and produced by the Spanish company UROVESA. Since its introduction in the late 1990s, the VAMTAC has been comparable in design and function to the American Humvee, offering a 4x4 configuration that ensures tactical mobility across various terrains. The vehicle has undergone various updates and adaptations over the years to meet different operational requirements.

Primarily used for reconnaissance, troop transport, and special operations, the VAMTAC is equipped to carry anti-tank and air-defense systems. Specifically for air defense, the VAMTAC can be fitted with platforms such as the High-Velocity Missile (HVM) system and Lightweight Multirole Missiles (LMM), enabling it to effectively engage aerial targets. This adaptability makes the VAMTAC a suitable choice for modern armies looking for a light, mobile air defense solution.

The new VAMTAC vehicles will not differ significantly in terms of functionality from the Stormer HVM systems. Unlike the track-mounted version, the VAMTAC is equipped with four mounts for Starstreak or Martlet missiles, as well as a launcher and an integrated detection and guidance system. This acquisition is part of the British Army's program to purchase light and mobile air defense systems, considered a temporary solution until a specialized platform is developed.

The focus on updating and strengthening air defense systems by the UK Ministry of Defense is driven by the events in Ukraine and the conclusion that the country’s critical infrastructure must be protected by a sufficient number of systems. In a related development, it has been reported that the UK plans to transfer the first samples of the DragonFire directed-energy weapon to Ukraine. During a visit to the DragonFire laboratory, Defence Secretary Grant Shapps indicated that the laser system was still in the testing phase, but the government was working to accelerate its development.

The Ministry of Defense has expressed its intention to acquire a total of 12 VAMTAC vehicles to replace the Stormers donated to Ukraine and as an interim solution. Thales, which showcased a URO VAMTAC armed with HVMs and Lightweight Multirole Missiles (LMM) at the GBAD Expo, confirmed that the system was ready for procurement and had already been purchased by Indonesia, Malaysia, and Saudi Arabia. For more information on the procurement of short-range air defense systems by the British Army, additional details will be available at IAV 2024.