Spain’s Council of Ministers has approved a substantial modernization initiative for the Pizarro infantry fighting vehicles currently utilized by the Spanish Army, with an investment totaling 261.8 million euros (approximately $305 million). This comprehensive upgrade program is set to continue until November 30, 2031.
Santa Bárbara Sistemas, the Spanish branch of General Dynamics European Land Systems, has been tasked with executing this modernization effort. The company has secured a loan amounting to 176 million euros (around $205 million) to facilitate the program.
The upgrade will focus on 121 Pizarro vehicles classified as Phase I, which have been in service since between 1996 and 2003. After the modernization, these vehicles are anticipated to meet performance standards on par with the 83 units currently configured as Phase II.
The Spanish Army’s Pizarro fleet consists of a total of 261 vehicles, including 21 command variants and 35 engineering versions known as Castor.
The modernization encompasses several critical areas. Key upgrades will target the fire control systems, onboard electronics, power distribution, integrated diagnostic systems, and survivability features. Additionally, the program aims to enhance communication capabilities, improving interoperability through upgraded radios, data links, and identification friend-or-foe systems.
Plans also include a thorough examination and enhancement of the vehicle’s mobility components, as well as the integration of government-furnished navigation systems. Modifications to both the exterior chassis and interior hull are also on the agenda.
Notably, turret enhancements are part of Santa Bárbara Sistemas’ upgrade strategy, which will improve the weapon system. A new thermal camera will be integrated for the gunner, along with modernized controls for the commander.
This initiative is a component of a more extensive defense investment package valued at 5.55 billion euros (approximately $6.47 billion), which was also sanctioned by the Council of Ministers. The package aims to modernize various aspects of Spain’s air and ground training systems, reinforcing the country’s military capabilities.
