The New Zealand Army has recently received a prototype of the VAMTAC ST5 four-wheel drive vehicle from Spain, marking an important step in the modernization of its fleet under a contract set for 2024. This prototype was transported from Galicia to the Wellington International Airport using a Royal New Zealand Air Force C-130J-30 Super Hercules aircraft.
Upon arrival, the vehicle will undergo communications design and testing tailored to military specifications. Further evaluations will determine its readiness for operations, which include clearances and operator training programs.
The introduction of the VAMTAC ST5 supports New Zealand’s initiative to enhance its ground-based utility fleet. The plan involves acquiring 20 VAMTAC ST5 light utility vehicles and 40 VAMTAC CK3 medium utility vehicles, all manufactured by the Spanish defense company Urovesa. The vehicles will ultimately replace older systems such as the Unimog and Pinzgauer trucks, which have been in service since the early 2000s. These older models comprise about 25 percent of the current utility fleet.
Once the new vehicles are fully operational, they will be deployed for a variety of purposes, including defense operations, humanitarian assistance, search and rescue missions, disaster relief, and vehicle training initiatives. Urovesa has been awarded a contract worth 100 million New Zealand dollars (approximately $59.3 million) to start assembling the first batch of vehicles, with full deliveries anticipated in 2027.
VAMTAC stands for “Vehículo de Alta Movilidad Táctico,” translated as “High Mobility Tactical Vehicle.” The ST5 variant measures 6 meters (20 feet) in length and boasts a gross weight of 6,000 kilograms (13,228 pounds). Its design allows for a cargo capacity of 1,700 kilograms (3,740 pounds) and a maximum speed of 110 kilometers (68 miles) per hour. The VAMTAC CK3, the medium utility variant, weighs around 9,950 kilograms (21,930 pounds) and has a payload capacity of 3,390 kilograms (7,473 pounds), along with similar dimensions and speed capabilities.
Sarah Minson, Deputy Defence Secretary for Capability Delivery, highlighted the vehicles’ robust and versatile design, noting their current use in over 20 countries, including Singapore and numerous NATO members. The new VAMTAC fleet is engineered to navigate challenging terrains safely, featuring high ground clearance and a 4×4 drive system with both inter-axle and inter-wheel differential locks.
