The Argentine Army received its first batch of 10 Ford Ranger 3.2 XLS 4×4 MT6 pick-up trucks on 31 March. The new vehicles will begin to replace the service’s old Mercedes Benz 230Gs.
The pick-ups, which were built at Ford’s factory in Buenos Aires, were militarised by local company Igarreta. Modifications have included an air intake on the top, a large fender on the front incorporating a winch, reinforced suspension, a new electrical system, NATO-standard lights for night operations, fittings to carry a radio and four FAL rifles, roll protection, off-road tyres, a towing winch, tools, two 20-litre fuel drums, and additional coverings to accommodate troops or cargo in the rear.
The purchase process for the new vehicles began in early 2019, when a request for proposals was issued and by mid-2019 Ford/Igarreta and Toyota Argentina had presented prototypes for evaluation, the latter with a modified Hilux. In December 2019, the Ranger was selected as the winning solution and the first order for 10 vehicles was placed.
The aim is to continue testing the vehicles before a follow-on order is placed, with the army ultimately needing to replace what remains of 900 Mercedes Benz 230Gs purchased in 1981.
Meanwhile, Volkswagen Argentina has loaned 70 Amarok pick-ups from its stocks to the army for use on relief operations during the Covid-19 pandemic. This was followed by an offer from Chevrolet, which offered the government, including the army, the vehicles it uses internally.
The first batch of 10 Ford Ranger 3.2 XLS 4x4 MT6 pick-up trucks, which will begin to replace the service’s old Mercedes Benz 230Gs. (Argentine Army)
Volkswagen Argentina has loaned 70 Amarok pick-ups to the Argentine Army for use on relief operations during the Covid-19 pandemic. (Argentine Army)
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