Continuing the process of modernization and renewal of its mechanized units, the Uruguayan National Army officially confirmed the induction of 4×4 Oshkosh M-ATV armored vehicles and 6×6 MTVR trucks acquired through the United States’ Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program. The ceremony, held at the facilities of the Service of Materiel and Armament, was attended by the Minister of National Defense, Sandra Lazo, and the Commander-in-Chief of the Army, Army General Mario Stevenazzi, marking a milestone in strengthening the force’s logistical and operational capabilities.
The incorporation of these units began in May of this year, when the first batches of vehicles arrived from the United States. In total, during 2025, the Uruguayan Army received 23 units comprising M-ATV armored vehicles and MTVR Mk23 trucks, as part of a larger agreement that provides for the delivery of 36 tactical 4×4 vehicles and 60 6×6 trucks. These acquisitions aim to improve tactical mobility, personnel protection, and response capacity for support and territorial defense missions.
The Oshkosh M-ATV, part of the MRAP (Mine Resistant Ambush Protected) family of vehicles, was designed to offer high maneuverability and protection against explosive threats. The version incorporated by Uruguay corresponds to the M1240A1 model, adapted for patrol, reconnaissance, and border control missions. Featuring all-wheel drive, a reinforced structure, and independent TAK-4 suspension, the M-ATV provides a balance between mobility and resilience, enabling effective operation in complex and high-risk environments.
Meanwhile, the Oshkosh MTVR Mk23 6×6 trucks, also of U.S. origin, were developed for the U.S. Marine Corps and stand out for their ability to transport up to 7 tons off-road and 15 tons on paved roads. Equipped with a 425-horsepower Caterpillar C-12 engine and an Allison automatic transmission, they offer excellent performance in logistical transport, evacuation, or rapid deployment missions. Their platform supports multiple configurations, consolidating a versatile and combat-proven vehicle used in international military operations.
In addition, the Uruguayan Army also incorporated new Agrale Marruá light tactical vehicles under a contract for 84 units and five ambulances manufactured in Brazil. These 4×4 vehicles have been progressively joining operational units since May, strengthening reconnaissance, transport, and field medical support capabilities. In its AM11 version, the Marruá combines robustness, reliability, and performance in adverse terrain, while the AM23 variants adapted for medical care expand evacuation capabilities in operational areas.
The induction process was accompanied by training courses delivered by instructors from Agrale and Oshkosh Defense, preparing Uruguayan personnel in the operation and maintenance of the new systems. With these deliveries, the National Army advances in integrating a more modern and efficient vehicle fleet, aligned with its strategic objective of increasing mobility, security, and operational projection.
Image credits: Uruguayan National Army.
You may also like: The Uruguayan Air Force finalizes preparations to receive its first A-29 Super Tucano attack aircraft in 2026
