The Colombian government has approved the purchase of 50 LAV III DVH 8x8 wheeled armoured vehicles manufactured by the American company General Dynamics Land Systems(GDLS), according to information published on the "InfoDefensa" website on May 20, 2022.
The purchase of the LAV III DVH 8x8 wheeled armoured vehicles was negotiated directly with GDLS, and the agreement was signed on May 19, 2022.Colombia has also begun a modernisation program for its armed forces, including purchasing M1117 4x4 armoured vehicles manufactured by Textron's American company. Colombia has also expressed interest in acquiring M1A2 Abrams main battle tanks.The Colombian Army received 28 Commando wheeled armoured vehicles ordered from the US in 2013.The Commando is a larger version of the older M1117 ASVs (Armoured Security Vehicles) from the United States.The Colombian Army has decided to acquire wheeled vehicles, which will make it easier to conduct road checks in areas where revolutionary armed forces (FARC) or drug gangs are active.The LAV III DVH (Double-V Hul) is an improved version of the LAV III with significantly increased survivability and protection.The LAV's Double-V Hull configuration provides unprecedented survivability against mines and IEDs, while the new driveline and suspension improve payload capacity, ride stability, and reliability.The LAV III DVH can be equipped with a remotely controlled weapon station that provides direct fire support to dismounted infantrymen during assaults.The new Double-V Hull ICV is one of the Army's most versatile, mobile, and safe personnel carriers.The Colombian Army has 60 wheeled armoured vehicles in IFV (Infantry Fighting Vehicle) configuration, including 28 Commando Advanced and 32 LAV III, according to the military balance 2021.
