Belgium prepares first batch of M113 armored vehicles for Ukraine
M113 armored vehicles (wikimedia org)
The Belgian company is ready to deliver 10 upgraded M113 armored vehicles to Ukraine, according to Forces Operations Blog.
"The first batch of 10 M113 armored vehicles, modernized by John Cockerill Defense (JCD), will be heading to Ukraine as part of an initiative funded by Belgium, the Netherlands, and the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg," the article states.
The Belgian company is exploring other possibilities to continue supporting the Ukrainian army.
By the end of November, 40 military transport vehicles M113 will be refurbished according to the contract received from the Ministry of Defense of Belgium. These vehicles to be participated in the fighting against Russians, are expected to be equipped with remote-controlled weapon systems and elements for mounting 7.62mm or 12.7mm machine guns.
"The first vehicles were handed over to the Belgian army at the end of August, as it is responsible for their transfer to Ukraine," the media writes.
Background
In July, the Minister of Defense of the Netherlands, Kajsa Ollongren, announced that Ukraine would soon receive a batch of M113 armored vehicles from three European states.
The minister noted that, among other things, these armored vehicles help to transport soldiers safely.
"This is how we support infantry on the ground," Ollongren added.
The Minister of Defense of the Netherlands also explained that these deliveries would be made in collaboration with Belgium and Luxembourg. At that time, the Ministry of Defense of the Netherlands reported that the M113s would be equipped with remote-controlled weapon systems, and Ukraine would also receive the necessary spare parts.
