The Spanish Navy is set to acquire 34 new Amphibious Combat Vehicles (VACIM) to replace its aging AAV-7 fleet, enhancing the Marine Corps’ protected force projection capabilities. This procurement is part of Spain’s Industrial and Technological Plan for Security and Defense, aimed at meeting the NATO goal of allocating 2% of GDP to defense.
For 2025, €50 million has been allocated to the VACIM program, while a draft royal decree from the Ministry of Industry authorizes an additional €150 million in pre-financing to fast-track several modernization efforts, including VACIM. The decree, appearing on page 2 under the name “Efficient Comprehensive Amphibious Projection System,” details plans to acquire 34 amphibious 8×8 vehicles in four variants: 28 troop carriers, 2 command units, 2 recovery vehicles, and 2 ambulances.
The acquisition also includes initial logistics support, training modules, simulation systems, and supporting infrastructure development.
