Through a series of images that went viral on social media, the Armed Forces of Ukraine have confirmed the reception and deployment of their new 4×4 VAMTAC tactical vehicles donated by the Spanish government. One notable detail observed was the confirmation that these vehicles, produced by the Spanish company Urovesa, are equipped with the Alakran 120mm mortar system.
In September, during an official visit by Spanish Defense Minister Margarita Robles to Urovesa’s facilities in Valga, Pontevedra, the company’s CEO, Justo Sierra, announced the transfer of an unspecified number of VAMTAC family vehicles to Ukraine. Although details were scarce, this transfer is part of Spain’s ongoing efforts to support the Ukrainian Armed Forces.
For instance, Spain has previously provided HAWK missile batteries, Leopard 2A4 tanks, Patriot air defense missiles, anti-tank rockets, and various training programs for Ukrainian personnel on Spanish soil.
While the exact number of VAMTAC vehicles remains unknown, their deployment has been confirmed within the Ukrainian Ground Forces, specifically as part of the 210th Independent Assault Regiment.
This confirmation stems from a series of photographs showing the unit’s operators in training. The images reveal a VAMTAC ST5 equipped with the Alakran mortar system provided by the Spanish company NTGS.
The Alakran mortar system, available in 120mm and 81mm configurations, offers rapid deployment for direct and indirect fire missions, as well as quick retreat capabilities due to the high mobility provided by the Urovesa VAMTAC platform. This feature is particularly critical in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, where counter-battery detection systems and neutralization measures are widely employed.
Regarding its use by the Ukrainian Armed Forces, members of the 210th Independent Assault Regiment stated: “It was comprehensive training. Everything started with an alert: the personnel received a combat order and moved to the firing positions.” They added: “We practiced the rapid deployment and withdrawal of the equipment, as well as effective target neutralization through fire.”
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