According to Zona Militar on February 19, 2024, the Argentinian Army is currently regarding the acquisition of the M1126 Stryker Infantry Carrier Vehicle (ICV) from the United States amidst the ongoing evaluation of Wheeled Armored Combat Vehicles (VCBR). This proposition, initially presented by the US government in 2020, has regained attention within Argentina’s new Ministry of Defense, coinciding with recent shifts under President Javier Milei.
Sources familiar with the matter have indicated that the Argentine Army is assessing the proposal for the Stryker ICV, which has seen extensive service within the US Army across varied operational terrains. However, internal deliberations have ensued within the Argentine institution, as the proposal must align with the objectives of the VCBR Program, aiming to integrate a versatile family of vehicles capable of fulfilling diverse roles within Armored Brigades and the Rapid Deployment Force.
This necessity for versatility was underscored by the signing of a Letter of Intent for 156 VBTP Guarani 6×6 armored vehicles. These vehicles, detailed under former Minister of Defense Jorge Taiana, are tailored for personnel transportation, infantry support armed with a 30mm cannon, and command post duties. The specifics include 120 Personnel Carriers (VCBR-TP) with a SARC REMAX turret equipped with a 12.7mm machine gun, 27 Infantry Combat Vehicles (VCBR-CI) featuring a SARC UT30BR2 turret armed with a 30mm cannon, and 9 Command Post vehicles (VCBR-PC).
The current offer from the United States government builds upon a previous proposal extended during the administration of President Mauricio Macri (2015-2019). This offer, dated July 6, 2020, includes the sale of 27 M1126 Stryker Infantry Carrier Vehicles (ICV) armed with M2 Flex .50 Cal machine guns and related equipment for an estimated cost of $100 million.