Sweden has made a significant move to enhance its military capabilities by placing an order for 100 4×4 medical vehicles for its armed forces. This procurement forms part of a larger framework initiated in 2023, aiming to modernize the country’s military transport and operational capabilities.
The contract has been awarded to Italian contractor Iveco Defence Vehicles, marking the second phase of an ambitious project that aims to deliver a total of 3,000 light vehicles across 12 different variants. This initiative builds on an initial order that included 400 systems—comprising 200 flatbed trucks, 100 troop transporters, and another 100 designated for medical operations.
The timeline for this project is set to extend until 2027, with an option to further extend the contract by five additional years. The vehicles will not only be delivered as part of the fleet but will also include sustainment services and equipment necessary for ensuring their operational readiness in the future.
At the heart of this order is Iveco’s Multipurpose Utility Vehicle (MUV), which serves as a modern iteration of the company’s M40E15-WM model. Built according to NATO standards, the MUV is designed to be versatile and adaptable to a range of military applications.
In terms of specifications, the MUV has a weight of 7,000 kilograms (15,432 pounds) and spans 7 meters (23 feet) in length. It has a payload capacity of up to 4,000 kilograms (8,818 pounds). The vehicle offers flexibility in performance with options for either a six-speed manual or an eight-speed automatic transmission, and it is equipped with either a Euro III or Euro IV engine, boasting an output of up to 175 horsepower. This configuration enables a maximum speed of 110 kilometers (68 miles) per hour.
The latest variants of the MUV are engineered to be “highly mobile and deployable,” capable of navigating complex terrains. They are designed to withstand a wide range of environmental conditions, operating effectively in temperatures that can range from -32 to 49 degrees Celsius.
Through this strategic procurement, Sweden aims to bolster its military capabilities, ensuring that its armed forces are well-equipped to handle future challenges efficiently and effectively.
