According to InfoDefensa on May 8, the Spanish Army signed two contracts with the company Urovesa for the acquisition of SK High Mobility Tactical Vehicles (Vamtac, Vehículos de Alta Movilidad Táctica) in the versions designed to tow the 105 mm Light Gun howitzer and to transport its ammunition for an amount of 9.3 million euros.
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Urovesa SK Vamtac in Light Gun tractor version (Picture source: Spanish army)
Specifically, the Logistics Support Command (MALE, Mando de Apoyo Logístico) has signed two contracts with the company, one for each version. The contract for the configuration prepared to tow the artillery piece has a budget of almost 4 million, and that of the ammunition transport variant of 5.3 million. In neither case is the number of units specified. Deliveries will extend until the end of 2023.
Both versions are built on a Vamtac ST5 platform with higher suspension heights and higher wheel spacing. The SK has a Steyr engine developing 217hp for a displacement of 3,200 cm³, which far exceeds the power of the current tractor, the veteran Uro Mat-18.16 InfoDefensa comments.
These Vamtac models are already in service with the Galicia VII Brigade and the Almogávares VI Paratroopers Brigade. The Vamtac SK maintains its permanent 4x4 transmission with a transfer differential and a high and short gear system. It also has sufficient capacity to operate on side slopes of up to 40%, with the maximum slope that can be overcome being 78%.
The towing vehicle has some elements that allow the establishment of a fixed communications network if necessary.
The SK model is specifically designed for military and security applications. It features a reinforced chassis and a wide range of advanced features that make it well-suited for a variety of missions. The vehicle can be configured for a variety of different roles, including reconnaissance, command and control, logistics, and medical support. It is available in a number of different configurations, including a two-door version with a short wheelbase, and a four-door version with a longer wheelbase.
Some of the features of the Vamtac SK include:* All-wheel drive with differential locks on both axles
* A 6-speed automatic transmission
* Independent suspension with adjustable shock absorbers
* A central tire inflation system
Defense News May 2023
