Photo: National Police
Italy has prepared a new military aid package for Ukraine, which may include upgraded VCC-2 Camilino armoured personnel carriers – the Italian version of the US M113 – and a satellite surveillance system. This was reported by Defence Express.
This package will be one of the largest on the part of Italy since the start of the full-scale Russian invasion. According to the sources, the transfer of equipment is already underway, although its condition may vary: some of the armoured vehicles will need to be repaired or used as spare parts donors.
What is known about VCC-2 Camilino
The VCC-2 Camilino armoured personnel carriers are an Italian upgrade of the M113A1, which received additional on-board armour and an open turret. According to publicly available data, Italy has upgraded up to 1,200 vehicles, but in 2022, about 722 APCs were disposed of. Therefore, the Italian Armed Forces could have up to 478 vehicles left, and it is this balance that is likely to be transferred to Ukraine.
“Deliveries can cover almost the entire balance in the warehouses – that is, up to 400 vehicles,” reports Defense Express.
Satellite reinforcement for Ukraine
Equally important is Rome’s promise to help with satellite reconnaissance, a system that will allow Ukrainian commanders to better plan operations, particularly behind enemy lines. Although details were not disclosed, such technological support could be crucial at the current stage of the war.
The Ukrainian Armed Forces already have hundreds of M113 armoured personnel carriers of various modifications, including those from the United States, Spain and other allies. The Italian vehicles can enhance the logistics and mobility of units, particularly on secondary frontlines. It is expected that some of the vehicles will be transferred to the National Police and the Terrorist Defence Forces, which already have experience with such armoured vehicles.
This aid package demonstrates that despite the changing political landscape in Europe, key NATO countries remain committed to supporting Ukraine.
