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TAMSE VCTP (Vehiculo de Combate Transporte de Personal)

1983 COLD WAR MODERN

History of TAMSE VCTP (Vehicle de Combate Transporte de Personal)

In the 1970s, Argentina enlisted Thyssen-Henschel, now Rheinmetall, to develop new tanks and infantry vehicles. This resulted in the TAM tank and VCTP infantry vehicle, introduced in the early 1980s. These vehicles, based on Germany's Marder design, aimed to replace outdated models like the M4 Sherman and M3/M9 half track. Originally planning for 500 vehicles, budget constraints reduced the final procurement to 200 TAM tanks and 216 VCTP infantry vehicles by 2013.

The VCTP, originating from design work in 1977, is a 31-ton vehicle resembling the Marder with its sloped armor and flat roof for the turret. It features electric rear doors for troop entry and exit, accommodating six soldiers in its interior. The crew comprises a driver, commander, and gunner, with the engine positioned at the front right of the vehicle for maintenance access.

Armed with a 20mm main gun and optional 7.62mm machine gun, the VCTP boasts ample ammunition storage and smoke screen capabilities. Its power comes from the same engine as the TAM tank, providing comparable speed and range. Notably, during the 1990s conflict in Yugoslavia, the VCTP saw deployment under the UN's peacekeeping efforts, adorned in traditional UN white with corresponding markings.