US to release 62 M2A2 ODS-SA Infantry Fighting Vehicles for Greece.

According to Flight on November 15, 2023, the United States might be on the verge of making an official announcement about the potential release of 62 M2A2 ODS-SA Infantry Fighting Vehicles (IFVs) to Greece. This development follows the formal request made by the Greek General Staff of National Defense (GEETHA) for the release of this specific version of the Bradley, a request that has been pending for almost two years.
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The Bradley M2A2 ODS-SA, manufactured by BAE Systems, is an upgraded version of the M2A2 Bradley Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV). (Picture source: BAE Systems)

Presently, the US Army deploys the M2A3 and the M2A2 ODS-SA, essentially an M2A2 ODS (Operation Desert Storm) equipped with the advanced electronics of the M2A3. Greece, facing a shortage of reliable Infantry Fighting Vehicles (IFVs), has recently acquired 40 Marder 1A3s. However, with the remaining Marder 1A3s being directed to Ukraine, the only immediate solution for Greece is the acquisition of US M2A2 Bradley IFVs.

According to the article, the United States, despite facing difficulties due to the situation in Ukraine, is releasing 62 vehicles under the Excess Defense Articles (EDA) program, providing them to Greece without cost. Although the vehicles themselves are cost-free, Greece is obligated to cover the transportation costs and factory maintenance expenses, estimated at 2 to 3 million euros per vehicle. It is noteworthy that these vehicles will undergo extensive reconstruction, making them more similar to the M2A3 than the M2A2 ODS-SA.

Specifically, the Greek Army has urgently requested the identification of at least 80 M2 vehicles initially to cover the needs of two armored battalions. While it is not ruled out that around 20 vehicles may be found at the last minute, it is crucial to consider that the US is also withdrawing significant quantities of M3A2s, the reconnaissance version of the M2 Bradley.

As reported by Army Recognition on March 13, 2023, the United States gave a positive response from the US to Greece's earlier request for the provision of used IFV M2A2s, securing 300 vehicles in good condition,

Information indicates that the US has calculated the amount required per vehicle for a factory inspection and complete restoration to operational condition. The estimated cost is around 1 million euros per vehicle, totaling approximately 300 million euros for all 300 vehicles. It is anticipated that the cost of the equipment sent by Greece to Ukraine will be deducted from this amount, possibly resulting in a reduced or even cost-free arrangement.

Acceptance of the American offer has broader implications, potentially impacting the program to modernize the Leopard 1A5 and Leopard 2A4 tanks. The need for IFVs is deemed critical by the Greek Army for advanced tanks to operate effectively, as evidenced by the experience of Ukraine and the recognized importance of IFV coverage. From the Greek Army's perspective, the procedures for acquiring the 300 IFVs are expected to commence immediately, given the pressing needs. Despite general delays in various equipment programs, there is hope in Greece that the opportunity to acquire the 300 IFVs will not be lost.

M2A2 ODS-SA Bradley Fighting Vehicle, during a press conference in February 2014 in Pennsylvania. (Picture source: US DoD)

The Bradley M2A2 ODS-SA, manufactured by BAE Systems, is an upgraded version of the M2A2 Bradley Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV). It is positioned as a contemporary armored combat vehicle that efficiently combines firepower, mobility, survivability, and advanced electronics within the US Army's Armored Brigade Combat Team.

The Bradley's firepower includes a Bushmaster 25mm cannon for explosive and armor-piercing rounds, TOW missiles for anti-armor capabilities, and a coaxial 7.62mm machine gun for close-range effectiveness. The vehicle prioritizes survivability with enhanced armor protection, roof fragmentation safeguards, and mounts for additional armor tiles, particularly effective against shaped charge munitions.

Mobility is improved through an increased driver field of vision and the integration of an Inertial Navigation System (INS), crucial for maneuverability in urban combat scenarios. Digitized electronics contribute to situational awareness and seamless communication within the Armored Brigade Combat Team. The addition of digital satellite communications hardware and software enables beyond Line-of-Sight capability.

In terms of specifications, the Bradley M2A2 ODS-SA has a combat weight of 34,250 kg, accommodating up to 10 personnel. Powered by a 600 hp engine and with a fuel tank capacity of 662 liters, the vehicle achieves a speed of 61 km/h and a cruising range of 402 km.