italy bolsters ukraine with armoured vehicles and satellite aid
Italians have prepared a new support package for Ukraine, according to the Ukrainian portal Defense Express. This involves M113 armoured personnel carriers, specifically the Italian version of this vehicle known as the VCC-2 Camilino.
According to the Italian portal Il Messaggero, cited by Defense Express, the latest military support package for Ukraine includes not only the VCC-2 Camilino but also a "satellite surveillance system" designed to assist in planning Ukrainian operations. However, details about this equipment are not known. It is known, however, that the mentioned VCC-2s, which are to be delivered to Ukraine, are equipment that Italy retired from its army four years ago.
According to publicly available data, the Italian army upgraded up to 1,200 carriers to the VCC-2 variant in total, but some were scrapped (in 2022, more than 700 machines were sent for scrap). Kyiv is expected to receive 400 M113 units, which analysts suggest means that Italy has given away almost all remaining vehicles in storage. It is worth noting that some of them may require repairs or may be used as a source of spare parts.
satellite monitoring system
In addition to the carriers, Italy will supply Ukraine with a satellite monitoring system, which is intended to support the planning of military operations. Details about this system have not been disclosed, but its implementation is expected to increase the effectiveness of the Ukrainian armed forces' activities.
Ukraine's experience with VCC-2 Camilino
The Ukrainian defence forces already have experience using the VCC-2 Camilino, which appeared in service there in 2024. Currently, Ukraine has hundreds of M113 carriers of various modifications, which will facilitate the integration of new vehicles with existing equipment.
The Italian VCC-2 model features impressive dimensions, measuring over 5 metres in length, about 3 metres in width, and 2 metres in height. Its weight exceeds 11 tonnes, and the propulsion allows for a top speed of about 70 kph.
The primary armament of the VCC-2 is a heavy machine gun of 12.7 mm calibre. Thanks to the placement of firing positions on the sides of the vehicle, its defensive capabilities surpass those of the standard M113 model.
This carrier stands out for its ability to move in water, which is one of its key advantages. Under such conditions, its tracks allow it to reach a speed of about 6 kph. The standard equipment of the vehicle includes a fire extinguishing system in the propulsion section and a contamination detector. However, while moving through contaminated terrain, the use of protective masks is necessary.
