Spain to send 100 VAMTAC armored vehicles to Ukrainian border guards
Photo: Spanish VAMTAC armored vehicle (urovesa.com)
Ukraine will receive 100 VAMTAC armored vehicles and 155mm ammunition from Spain, with the first deliveries expected in early May, according to Spain’s Ministry of Defense.
During a visit to Kyiv, Spanish Defense Minister Margarita Robles met with Ukrainian border guards. They thanked Spain for its support, including the supply of equipment and the training of personnel as part of an EU mission.
The Spanish Defense Minister also announced the delivery of a significant number of tactical armored vehicles, as well as 155mm ammunition.
"This cooperation reflects our country’s commitment to defending democratic values, freedom, and a just and lasting peace," Robles said.
According to Spanish outlet Cadena SER, the shipment includes 100 VAMTAC armored vehicles.
What is VAMTAC
VAMTAC is a Spanish high-mobility armored vehicle. It combines off-road mobility with basic armor protection and the ability to mount weapons.
The vehicle has all-wheel drive and high mobility, allowing it to operate both on roads and in off-road conditions. It can carry up to 2.5 tons of cargo or personnel and can also tow trailers or other equipment.
Key specifications:
- Combat weight: 5.8 tons
- Crew: 1 + up to 3 troops
- Manufacturer: Spain
- In service since 1998
- Length: 4.8 m, width: 2.1 m, height: 1.9 m
- Speed: up to 135 km/h
- Suspension: independent
Armament:
- 7.62 mm and 12.7 mm machine guns
- Capability to mount TOW and MILAN anti-tank systems
- Mistral MANPADS
In late March, Spain announced it would transfer five missiles for Patriot air defense systems (PAC-2 version) to Ukraine.
These missiles are not the most modern, as Spain is gradually transitioning to the upgraded PAC-3 version. Estimates put the cost of a single missile at $3–4 million.
