The Spanish Army’s “Almogávares” VI Parachute Brigade (BRIPAC) recently unveiled a significant upgrade in their arsenal—two new URO VAMTACs air-deployable light artillery tractor, tailored specifically for towing the L118 105 mm towed light howitzer and handling its ammunition. This development, disclosed via the Spanish Army social media account, showcased the two distinct vehicles during the ExTRueno23 exercise, a live-fire demonstration. Although detailed specifications are yet to be released, initial glimpses from the images reveal key features of these adapted vehicles, finely tuned to meet the unique demands of paratroop artillery. The VAMTACs belong to the ST-5 variant, distinguishing themselves with distinct functionalities. The ammunition transport version of the vehicle features a single cabin, with the rear part reserved for projectiles. Meanwhile, the version designed for towing the howitzer has a double cabin, allowing for the transport of the howitzer’s crew and equipped with the necessary tools for moving the artillery piece.
Both multi-purpose armored vehicles boast the light BN-1 protection level and adopt the suspension and wheels characteristic of this armored variant. These specialized vehicles are based on the VAMTAC ST5 platform, with higher suspension heights and increased wheel spacing. The decision to opt for the VAMTAC ST-5 variant, despite the availability of the SK95—a variant already within the Parachute Brigade for towing artillery—seems rooted in the necessity for armored capabilities. The SK95 lacks an armored cabin, tipping the scales in favor of the ST-5, a choice strategically aligned with the imperative to ensure both mobility and protection. Reports indicate that these newly introduced vehicles have already been supplied and are earmarked for assignment to the Field Artillery Group VI of Paratroopers (GACAPAC VI). The unit’s shields are visibly emblazoned on the doors, indicating an imminent integration into the existing artillery infrastructure.
In October 2023, the Spanish Army further enhanced its capabilities by acquiring VAMTAC vehicles designed for towing and supplying parts for the 105 mm towed light howitzer. This acquisition, valued at 9.3 million euros, includes two configurations: one for towing the 105mm light howitzer and another for transporting its ammunition. The L118 light gun is a 105 mm towed light howitzer. It was originally designed and produced in the United Kingdom for the British Army in the 1970s. The L118 uses separate-loading cased-charge ammunition – the projectile is loaded into the gun and rammed by hand, then the cartridge with propellant is loaded behind it. The L119 and M119 use “semi-fixed” ammunition – when it is prepared for firing, the projectile is fitted into the top of the cartridge case and the shell loaded into the gun as a complete round. EXPAL and General Dynamics Santa Barbara Sistemas were involved in the production of 105 mm ammunition in Spain.
The URO VAMTAC, manufactured by UROVESA, mirrors the appearance and design of the US Military’s Humvee, owing to similar operational requisites. With over 2,000 units delivered to the Spanish Armed Forces, this versatile vehicle has seen active service in conflict zones like Afghanistan and Syria. Offering three primary models—named I3, S3, and ST5—along with various configurations, the VAMTAC stands as a reliable asset in the military’s vehicular fleet. Boasting four-wheel drive capability, the VAMTAC offers flexibility through its three primary configurations: command and control, chassis-cab, and pick-up. The adaptability extends to the cab types—ranging from two-door to four-door variants—accommodating diverse needs in terms of space and functionality. The vehicle’s rear compartment allows for the incorporation of shelter types, cargo bodies, and weapons, including machine guns, grenade launchers, anti-tank missiles, mortars, recoilless rifles, and light air defense missiles.
