Luxembourg will invest 2.6 billion euros ($2.83 billion) in the procurement of military vehicles over the next 30 years, Minister of Defense Yuriko Backes has said.
The investment is part of the formation of a binational reconnaissance battalion by Luxembourg and Belgium, with the first delivery expected in 2025.
“The creation of the binational battalion and the acquisition of technically advanced mid-range combat vehicles will allow the Luxembourg army to transform itself to be able to act in a more demanding security environment,” Chronicle quoted Backes as saying.
Procurement
The procurement includes 16 Griffon multi-role armored vehicles, 38 Jaguar armored reconnaissance and combat vehicles, and 5 Serval light multi-role armored vehicles.
It also includes two armored recovery vehicles, three armored tow trucks, 50 multi-logistic support trucks, 24 tank transporter trucks, and 48 low-loader multi-purpose wagons.
Additionally, logistical support, weapons, protection, communication and functional subsystems to go with the vehicles will also be procured.
Binational Battalion
The 700-strong battalion is being formed to take part in national and multinational missions in support of organizations like NATO, the EU, and the UN.
The battalion will be formed in three phases, reaching its full strength in around 2030.
“This is a historic investment in our defense, necessary to remain a united and reliable partner, respecting its commitments within NATO and the EU,” Chronicle quoted Backes as saying.