Uruguayan Army receives 13 Mamba Mk7 MRAP vehicles from the US.

On July 24, 2024, the Uruguayan Army received a significant donation of 13 Osprea Mamba Mk7 Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicles from the United States, valued at approximately $13 million. This donation is part of a defense cooperation package aimed at enhancing Uruguay's peacekeeping capabilities. The delivery ceremony took place at the Service of Material and Armament, attended by U.S. Ambassador to Uruguay Heide Fulton, Uruguay's Minister of National Defense Javier García, and the Commander-in-Chief of the Uruguayan Army.
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Since 2016, Osprea Logistics, a U.S.-based company, has been the exclusive manufacturer of the Mamba Mk7, delivering these MRAP vehicles mainly across Africa for peacekeeping and counter-terrorism operations. (Picture source: U.S. Embassy Uruguay)

Ambassador Fulton noted the historic nature of the day for U.S.-Uruguay defense relations and highlighted that the donation, funded by the Global Peace Operations Initiative (GPOI) through U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM), would provide essential capabilities to Uruguayan peacekeeping personnel operating in conflict zones. The Mamba Mk7 vehicles are designed for environments threatened by mines and improvised explosive devices (IEDs), featuring a V-shaped hull to deflect blasts and meet stringent NATO standards for blast resistance. These vehicles are equipped with a Deutz BF6L914C Turbo engine and an Allison 2500SP automatic transmission, offering mobility and protection. They support various configurations, including troop transport, command roles, and medical evacuation.

The United States provides military assistance to Uruguay to enhance bilateral defense relations and support regional security. This assistance includes training programs, equipment donations, and humanitarian aid. Notably, the U.S. has delivered helicopter parts and equipment under the GPOI to bolster Uruguay's peacekeeping capabilities. Additionally, SOUTHCOM frequently engages with Uruguayan military leaders to discuss security cooperation.

In recent years, the U.S. has focused on enhancing Uruguay's military training through the International Military Education and Training (IMET) program, supporting over 200 Uruguayan military personnel to improve interoperability and professional development within Uruguay's armed forces. SOUTHCOM has also participated in humanitarian missions, donating mobile hospitals and medical equipment to support Uruguay's public health infrastructure, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.

 The Mamba Mk7 vehicles are designed for environments threatened by mines and improvised explosive devices (IEDs), featuring a V-shaped hull to deflect blasts and meet stringent NATO standards for blast resistance. (Picture source: U.S. Embassy Uruguay)

The U.S. has supplied Uruguay with various military equipment since the 1980s, including artillery systems such as M101 and M114A2 howitzers, M1 mortars, and anti-tank weapons like the M40A1 recoilless rifles and MILAN anti-tank missiles. These contributions aim to improve the operational readiness and interoperability of Uruguay's military forces. The U.S. has also supported the modernization of the Uruguayan Navy by donating three 87-foot Protector Class vessels as part of an $8.69 million grant to enhance Uruguay’s maritime patrol and security operations.

The Mamba Mk7, the latest iteration in the Mamba series of Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicles, is designed by Osprea Logistics and provides ballistic and mine-blast protection suitable for high-threat environments. It features a Deutz BF6L914C Turbo engine, capable of 203 HP, paired with an Allison 2500SP automatic transmission, offering mobility across various terrains. The vehicle supports configurations for different operational needs, such as troop transport, command roles, and medical evacuation.

The Mamba series originated in South Africa during the late 1980s and was developed to replace the Buffel in military and security operations. The initial models were based on the Toyota Dyna chassis, evolving over time with enhancements in protection and performance. The Mamba has been used in peacekeeping and military roles in countries like Somalia, Kenya, and Uganda. Its design focuses on simplicity, reliability, and ease of maintenance.

Since 2016, Osprea Logistics, a U.S.-based company, has been the exclusive manufacturer of the Mamba Mk7, delivering these vehicles across Africa for peacekeeping and counter-terrorism operations. The Mk7's ability to withstand multiple IED attacks has reinforced its reputation for safety and reliability. The vehicle's adaptability and cost-effectiveness make it a choice for various international military and peacekeeping forces, providing NATO-level armored protection at a competitive price.