I have a few questions relating to Spanish armor after 1975. I have the magazine titled La Brunete: Primera Parte. but I won't be getting the second part any time soon (at some point I'll have to order it on the net; I bought the first part when I was visiting my family in Spain this past summer). Regardless, the questions are as follows:
1. Why was the AMX-30 chosen over the M60A1 or the Leopard 1?
2. Were all AMX-30s indigenously produced in Spain? If not, how many were imported? How many were introduced into the Spanish army in total?
3. After the TLE in 1992 from whom did Spain receive her M60s? Were they already upgraded to M60A3TTS status?
4. What happened to the M47s imported during the 50s and 60s, and to the M48s, when they were replaced?
These are all the questions I can remember, right now. Thanks in advance for your time,
Jon
----
Another unrelated question. What happened to the 2,000+ M47s sold to Italy during the 50s when they were replaced by M60A1s and later the Leopard 1?
Full Version: Spain's Armor
Que venga Gorka....!
QUOTE(Catalan @ Tue 30 Jan 2007 0230) 
(...)
1. Why was the AMX-30 chosen over the M60A1 or the Leopard 1?
(...)
1. Why was the AMX-30 chosen over the M60A1 or the Leopard 1?
(...)
I remember it was the only modern tank that didn't mount the L7A1 gun or one of its derivatives. The British Government had declared an arms embargo on Spain that also affected the purchase of frigates for the Armada
After a brief search, I found this pdf. Look for "Harold Wilson".
QUOTE(Catalan @ Tue 30 Jan 2007 0130)
1. Why was the AMX-30 chosen over the M60A1 or the Leopard 1?
Germany had severe export restrictions on the Leo. Greece, Spain, and Chile were still dictatorships at the time, and Germany nixed any idea of selling to them early on. This all happened well before 1975.
Not sure about the M60. We certainly had less of a problem selling to dictatorships. We loved Franco for being rabidly anti-communist.
QUOTE
I remember it was the only modern tank that didn't mount the L7A1 gun or one of its derivatives. The British Government had declared an arms embargo on Spain that also affected the purchase of frigates for the Armada.
That might explain the frigates and no British tanks, but the Spanish already had a ton of M48A5 and M47E with the L7/M68 gun.
In fact, by the late 60s nearly the entire Spanish tank force was equipped with the L7 and 105mm NATO ammunition. Spain was also one of the few countries to have
L7 equipped M47s.
- John
The first AMX-30s arrived in 1976, after the death of Franco in 1975. IIRC, Spanish M48s and M48A1s were not upgraded to M48A5 status until after the death of Franco, as well. Thanks Sunday for the PDF.
- Jon
- Jon
QUOTE(Catalan @ Tue 30 Jan 2007 0308)
The first AMX-30s arrived in 1976, after the death of Franco in 1975. IIRC, Spanish M48s and M48A1s were not upgraded to M48A5 status until after the death of Franco, as well. Thanks Sunday for the PDF.
- Jon
- Jon
I thought Spain had the A5 as far back as the 60s?
- John
You may be right. In my principle Spanish source (La Brunete: Primera Parte) it's not very clear (or easy to find) what types of M48s came into Spain up until 1970. However, it does say that in 1970 the treaties with the U.S. were extended for another 5 years, in which 66 M48A2s were received from the United States, as well as 17 M41A3s. At the same time, RIAC 61 in El Goloso completely substituted its M47s for M48A1s. Furthermore, concerning the AMX-30, I was wrong - the first 21 AMX-30s made it to Spain from France in 1970, and thse were given to the Legion. The same source claims that Spain began to update its M47s to M47E-1s between 1975 and 1976 through Chrysler España, and her M-48s into M-48Es from 1978 onwards; the first batch of 100 would be completed in 1979 and given to cavalry units in Ceuta and Melilla.
This brings up another question:
Were the 100 M-47s imported from Italy (in bad condition) ultimately used for the purpose of transforming them into armor recovery vehicles?
The New Vanguard book for the M-47 and M-48, but Steven Zaloga, (New Vanguard 31) says that Spain's M-47s and M-48s were converted to M-47Es and M-48Es in the 1980s.
-Jon
This brings up another question:
Were the 100 M-47s imported from Italy (in bad condition) ultimately used for the purpose of transforming them into armor recovery vehicles?
The New Vanguard book for the M-47 and M-48, but Steven Zaloga, (New Vanguard 31) says that Spain's M-47s and M-48s were converted to M-47Es and M-48Es in the 1980s.
-Jon
QUOTE(Catalan @ Tue 30 Jan 2007 0352)
Were the 100 M-47s imported from Italy (in bad condition) ultimately used for the purpose of transforming them into armor recovery vehicles?
According to Jane's, no. Nothing was ever done with them in the end.
AFAIK, Spain started getting L7 equipped tanks *before* 1975. I might have misspoke by saying most were equipped as such in the late 60s, but I'm almost positive they had them before Franco bit the dust in '75. Ergo, I don't think there was an embargo on the L7 into Spain per-say.
It's possible OTOH that Spain couldn't get M60/M60A1 because a lot of the production run was sent to Israel instead. This is around the time of the Yom Kippur War.
Plus, lets keep in mind that Spain didn't join NATO until '82. Nearly everybody else that got the M60 around this time-frame was NATO or a close US ally (Italy was a founding member and got theirs in the early 60s). US-Spanish relations were more ambivalent.
Leopard 1 was definitely embargo-related. Germany is more picky about who they sell arms to.
On the other end of the spectrum you have France, which will sell to just about anyone.
- John
It's possible OTOH that Spain couldn't get M60/M60A1 because a lot of the production run was sent to Israel instead. This is around the time of the Yom Kippur War.
Plus, lets keep in mind that Spain didn't join NATO until '82. Nearly everybody else that got the M60 around this time-frame was NATO or a close US ally (Italy was a founding member and got theirs in the early 60s). US-Spanish relations were more ambivalent.
Leopard 1 was definitely embargo-related. Germany is more picky about who they sell arms to.
On the other end of the spectrum you have France, which will sell to just about anyone.
- John
QUOTE(FITZ @ Tue 30 Jan 2007 0356)
According to Jane's, no. Nothing was ever done with them in the end.
Probably scrapped for spares to keep the E1s and E2s running.
- John
Some of the Italian M47s were given to Somalia when it changed sides from pro-Soviet to anti (because the USSR found a new, bigger friend - Ethiopia). The USA sometimes asked for kit like that to be given back when retired, but I don't know if that happened to any of the Italian M47s. A large number were kept in storage in Italy for years, with occasional proposals to do an M47E-style upgrade to some, but AFAIK they were scrapped eventually.
The numbers I remember seeing listed as stored were several hundred. Still a lot not accounted for. It's possible (NB: this is speculation) some reverted to US ownership, & were then sent to other countries, e.g. Greece & Turkey.
PS. Descriptions & photos of some AFVs in Somalia, including ex-Italian M47s -
http://membres.lycos.fr/France40/
The numbers I remember seeing listed as stored were several hundred. Still a lot not accounted for. It's possible (NB: this is speculation) some reverted to US ownership, & were then sent to other countries, e.g. Greece & Turkey.
PS. Descriptions & photos of some AFVs in Somalia, including ex-Italian M47s -
http://membres.lycos.fr/France40/
Sunday, sorry to be a pain-in-the-ass, but did you ever get your hands one that PDF on Programa Coraza?
QUOTE(Catalan @ Tue 30 Jan 2007 1839)
Sunday, sorry to be a pain-in-the-ass, but did you ever get your hands one that PDF on Programa Coraza?
I lost it. Sorry for no telling you.
But, in a stroke of luck and looking to redeem me, I found this nice web page, from which you can download that blessed pdf.
Tell me if you can't open the file. I just downloaded it.
Best regards, and my excuses.
Jose
Jose,
Thanks! I was able to view the file fine, although I'll have to wait until I get home to save it.
Regards,
Jon
----
How was the decision made to use the Leopard 2A6 as the basis for the Leopard 2E, as opposed to the Leopard 2A5? This PDF still says that Spain would use the Leopard 2A5 as the basis.
Thanks! I was able to view the file fine, although I'll have to wait until I get home to save it.
Regards,
Jon
----
How was the decision made to use the Leopard 2A6 as the basis for the Leopard 2E, as opposed to the Leopard 2A5? This PDF still says that Spain would use the Leopard 2A5 as the basis.
QUOTE(Catalan @ Tue 30 Jan 2007 1907)
Jose,
Thanks! I was able to view the file fine, although I'll have to wait until I get home to save it.
Regards,
Jon
----
How was the decision made to use the Leopard 2A6 as the basis for the Leopard 2E, as opposed to the Leopard 2A5? This PDF still says that Spain would use the Leopard 2A5 as the basis.
Thanks! I was able to view the file fine, although I'll have to wait until I get home to save it.
Regards,
Jon
----
How was the decision made to use the Leopard 2A6 as the basis for the Leopard 2E, as opposed to the Leopard 2A5? This PDF still says that Spain would use the Leopard 2A5 as the basis.
I think we have to wait for Gorka, but I my memory don't fails, the Leo 2A6 became available shortly before or after the completion of the study, but before the signing of the agreement with Krauss-Maffei, and, in the interim. the L55 gun was made available, so after some more talks, in 1998 it was decided to buy Leos 2A6
I found this page, about the history of the program. Looks good.
Also you can find more info here and here.
Regards.
Jose
P.D.: Once you get your Leo, May I ask for a ride?
QUOTE(Kensuke @ Tue 30 Jan 2007 1025)
AFAIK, Spain started getting L7 equipped tanks *before* 1975. I might have misspoke by saying most were equipped as such in the late 60s, but I'm almost positive they had them before Franco bit the dust in '75. Ergo, I don't think there was an embargo on the L7 into Spain per-say.
It's possible OTOH that Spain couldn't get M60/M60A1 because a lot of the production run was sent to Israel instead. This is around the time of the Yom Kippur War.
Plus, lets keep in mind that Spain didn't join NATO until '82. Nearly everybody else that got the M60 around this time-frame was NATO or a close US ally (Italy was a founding member and got theirs in the early 60s). US-Spanish relations were more ambivalent.
Leopard 1 was definitely embargo-related. Germany is more picky about who they sell arms to.
On the other end of the spectrum you have France, which will sell to just about anyone.
- John
It's possible OTOH that Spain couldn't get M60/M60A1 because a lot of the production run was sent to Israel instead. This is around the time of the Yom Kippur War.
Plus, lets keep in mind that Spain didn't join NATO until '82. Nearly everybody else that got the M60 around this time-frame was NATO or a close US ally (Italy was a founding member and got theirs in the early 60s). US-Spanish relations were more ambivalent.
Leopard 1 was definitely embargo-related. Germany is more picky about who they sell arms to.
On the other end of the spectrum you have France, which will sell to just about anyone.
- John
John,
Looking for info on the Leopardo 2E I stumbled upon this page (in Spanish).
According to that website,
1. The first American tanks to arrive in Spain were plain-jane M47, between 1954 and 1960, about 368 units total.
2. In 1967 the first 54 M48 were bought. In 1972 we bought 54 M48A1. Another 20 M48A1 came in 1978.
2. These tanks were upgraded by mounting a Diesel engine, replacement of optics, and removing the hull MG (in the M47s). Those first upgrades to M47E, M47E1, and M48A3E didn't include upgunning to 105mm.
4. The upgrade of the M48s, and M48A1s, to M48A5E began in 1979. The upgrade included the replacement of the gun by an American M68 or a German RH105/30 . The upgrade of the M47Es to M47E2, with the same guns, began in 1980.
5. In 1980 were bought 54 M48A2, and, from Italy, about 100 M47 earmarked for the scrapper in Italy, but we intended to made into special vehicles. Sadly, they were in such a state that the transformation was not possible.
There is more data in the link above.
Regards.
Jose
Where the Hell is Gorka; too many nurses to chase in Málaga??
A few notes:
The Spanish Legion lost its last tanks when it left Sahara in the 1975 redeployment, so the
early AMX-30 deployment perhaps went to the cavary regts in Ceuta/Melilla?
There were few 105mm L7 guns before the M60A3 acquisition, because only 40+ of
the M47E2? with them were converted, all assigned the battalion at Cerro Muriano
[X Brigada], I was allowed to drive one in '92, the oldest tank I have operated. [edit to add:
The chassis was the oldest of the tanks I have been allowed to operate, but I thought
it a very fine modernization, limited of course by the armor; so, older but better, kinda like I hope to be....]
The M60A3 transfer was problematic and not all were TTS versions, as I recall, and many were far from
the Code A condition promised. The 50 M60A1 also part of the deal I think were rejected in the end.
The planning before the decision to go to Leo II was the following, as far as I could determine in 1994:
A few notes:
The Spanish Legion lost its last tanks when it left Sahara in the 1975 redeployment, so the
early AMX-30 deployment perhaps went to the cavary regts in Ceuta/Melilla?
There were few 105mm L7 guns before the M60A3 acquisition, because only 40+ of
the M47E2? with them were converted, all assigned the battalion at Cerro Muriano
[X Brigada], I was allowed to drive one in '92, the oldest tank I have operated. [edit to add:
The chassis was the oldest of the tanks I have been allowed to operate, but I thought
it a very fine modernization, limited of course by the armor; so, older but better, kinda like I hope to be....]
The M60A3 transfer was problematic and not all were TTS versions, as I recall, and many were far from
the Code A condition promised. The 50 M60A1 also part of the deal I think were rejected in the end.
The planning before the decision to go to Leo II was the following, as far as I could determine in 1994:
QUOTE
In 1989, Spain operated the following inventory of main battle tanks:
375 M47E1 and E2
164 M48A5E2
299 AMX30E,ER1 and EM2
16 M48A3 [naval infantry/marine corps]That year, the Army had begun to modernize 150 of the AMX30's of the Brunete Armored Division to the most modern, EM2, standard. Then came the 1990 TLE deliberations, limiting Spain to 794 tanks [also 1310 artillery pieces and 1588 APCs], but offering the prospect of acquiring excess U.S. Army M60 tanks from USAREUR stocks, at the modest cost of transportation, vehicle accessories and reconditioning, where necessary. Spain thus requested in 1991 the transfer of 160 M60A1 and 260 M60A3 [also 24 M-110A2 and 100 M113A2]. At the same time, the army marked for disposal the M47 series, the M48A3 of the marines and 89 of the oldest AMX30E tanks. In September, 1992, the army took delivery of the first 50 M60A1 and 46 M60A3TTS vehicles. The modernization plan then was recast to complete the AMX30 upgrade, rebuild all the M60A1 to A3 standards, and overhaul/modify all the M60A3 to M60A3E1. At the same time, national defense reductions allowed Spain to voluntarily limit herself to 684 tanks, and to decline the last 110 M60A1 of the TLE allocation.
The penultimate modernization plan, of 4 August 1993, earmarked 154 M60A3TTS for upgrading to M60A3E1 standards. Intended for service until 2012, these vehicles will receive reactive and ceramic armor kits and 850hp MTU engines. A further 94 M60A1TTS will receive periodic overhauls and operate through 2007. The plan canceled modernization of the 50 M60A1 and 60 AMX30ER, which will remain unmodified and serve through the end of the century. Tank recovery vehicles for the fleet consist of 22 converted M47 tanks, designated M47E1R, which began arriving from the GAMESA firm in 1994. The vehicles received modified M60A3 automotive components, hydraulic winches to pull 56 tonnes and lift 35 tonnes. In addition, 30 new tank transporters are ordered, built around the Mercedes-Benz 2644S tractor and the Spanish TRABOSA GM0734 trailer.
Thus at some expense for modernization and upkeep, the Spanish Army had resolved its immediate problems in battle tanks. Yet the desired standard for some time had been the Leopard II. In fact, the native tank project, the "Lince (Lynx)," reflected strongly on the Leo II. Funding had yet to be found for such undertakings, however.
Thus, the willingness of the government to purchase first-line tanks reveals the extent of its commitment to play a full part in the WEU defense arm, especially the EuroCorps. The alignment of the XXI Mechanized Infantry Brigade to the Eurocorps will be followed by the rest of the Brunete Division (redesignated a mechanized division by 1997) as a reinforcement echelon in WEU scheme. The Leopard II will contribute to nascent WEU standardization. Eventually the new "Pizarro" infantry fighting vehicle will operate in tandem with the Leopards. The XXI Brigade will also receive the first of these in 1995, replacing the M113s and wheeled BMRs of its three mechanized battalions.
375 M47E1 and E2
164 M48A5E2
299 AMX30E,ER1 and EM2
16 M48A3 [naval infantry/marine corps]That year, the Army had begun to modernize 150 of the AMX30's of the Brunete Armored Division to the most modern, EM2, standard. Then came the 1990 TLE deliberations, limiting Spain to 794 tanks [also 1310 artillery pieces and 1588 APCs], but offering the prospect of acquiring excess U.S. Army M60 tanks from USAREUR stocks, at the modest cost of transportation, vehicle accessories and reconditioning, where necessary. Spain thus requested in 1991 the transfer of 160 M60A1 and 260 M60A3 [also 24 M-110A2 and 100 M113A2]. At the same time, the army marked for disposal the M47 series, the M48A3 of the marines and 89 of the oldest AMX30E tanks. In September, 1992, the army took delivery of the first 50 M60A1 and 46 M60A3TTS vehicles. The modernization plan then was recast to complete the AMX30 upgrade, rebuild all the M60A1 to A3 standards, and overhaul/modify all the M60A3 to M60A3E1. At the same time, national defense reductions allowed Spain to voluntarily limit herself to 684 tanks, and to decline the last 110 M60A1 of the TLE allocation.
The penultimate modernization plan, of 4 August 1993, earmarked 154 M60A3TTS for upgrading to M60A3E1 standards. Intended for service until 2012, these vehicles will receive reactive and ceramic armor kits and 850hp MTU engines. A further 94 M60A1TTS will receive periodic overhauls and operate through 2007. The plan canceled modernization of the 50 M60A1 and 60 AMX30ER, which will remain unmodified and serve through the end of the century. Tank recovery vehicles for the fleet consist of 22 converted M47 tanks, designated M47E1R, which began arriving from the GAMESA firm in 1994. The vehicles received modified M60A3 automotive components, hydraulic winches to pull 56 tonnes and lift 35 tonnes. In addition, 30 new tank transporters are ordered, built around the Mercedes-Benz 2644S tractor and the Spanish TRABOSA GM0734 trailer.
Thus at some expense for modernization and upkeep, the Spanish Army had resolved its immediate problems in battle tanks. Yet the desired standard for some time had been the Leopard II. In fact, the native tank project, the "Lince (Lynx)," reflected strongly on the Leo II. Funding had yet to be found for such undertakings, however.
Thus, the willingness of the government to purchase first-line tanks reveals the extent of its commitment to play a full part in the WEU defense arm, especially the EuroCorps. The alignment of the XXI Mechanized Infantry Brigade to the Eurocorps will be followed by the rest of the Brunete Division (redesignated a mechanized division by 1997) as a reinforcement echelon in WEU scheme. The Leopard II will contribute to nascent WEU standardization. Eventually the new "Pizarro" infantry fighting vehicle will operate in tandem with the Leopards. The XXI Brigade will also receive the first of these in 1995, replacing the M113s and wheeled BMRs of its three mechanized battalions.
The AMX30 was the only option in the 70s. This tank was bought without restrictions for use.
The Tank Company of the Spanish Legion was created in 1970, when the AMX30 were recieved. In december 75 a tank platoon was one of the last units to be redeployed from Sahara.
After the withdrawal the company was disbanded and the tanks were given to the Armored Infantry Battalion Wad-Ras.
The M60 transfered from US depots in Germany were not in very good conditions. The M60A3 were overhauled. The M60A1 were acepted but transformed in bridge launchers and combat engineer vehicles.
The Tank Company of the Spanish Legion was created in 1970, when the AMX30 were recieved. In december 75 a tank platoon was one of the last units to be redeployed from Sahara.
After the withdrawal the company was disbanded and the tanks were given to the Armored Infantry Battalion Wad-Ras.
The M60 transfered from US depots in Germany were not in very good conditions. The M60A3 were overhauled. The M60A1 were acepted but transformed in bridge launchers and combat engineer vehicles.
QUOTE(Kensuke @ Tue 30 Jan 2007 1025)
AFAIK, Spain started getting L7 equipped tanks *before* 1975. I might have misspoke by saying most were equipped as such in the late 60s, but I'm almost positive they had them before Franco bit the dust in '75. Ergo, I don't think there was an embargo on the L7 into Spain per-say.
It's possible OTOH that Spain couldn't get M60/M60A1 because a lot of the production run was sent to Israel instead. This is around the time of the Yom Kippur War.
Plus, lets keep in mind that Spain didn't join NATO until '82. Nearly everybody else that got the M60 around this time-frame was NATO or a close US ally (Italy was a founding member and got theirs in the early 60s). US-Spanish relations were more ambivalent.
Leopard 1 was definitely embargo-related. Germany is more picky about who they sell arms to.
On the other end of the spectrum you have France, which will sell to just about anyone.
- John
It's possible OTOH that Spain couldn't get M60/M60A1 because a lot of the production run was sent to Israel instead. This is around the time of the Yom Kippur War.
Plus, lets keep in mind that Spain didn't join NATO until '82. Nearly everybody else that got the M60 around this time-frame was NATO or a close US ally (Italy was a founding member and got theirs in the early 60s). US-Spanish relations were more ambivalent.
Leopard 1 was definitely embargo-related. Germany is more picky about who they sell arms to.
On the other end of the spectrum you have France, which will sell to just about anyone.
- John
The earliest trials of 105mm equipped tanks in Spain happened in 1964 with AMX-30, but when the decision to buy one was taken in 1966 the Leopard was chosen. However the Germans were reticent and the British were opposed to the acquisition or license production of the L-7, so in 1970 the AMX-30 was the winner, with 19 being bought for the Sahara as mentioned. There they were joined by M48A1s of the Alcazar de Toledo regiment in 1974 and when the Company was disbanded, the tanks were sent to the 55th Mechanised Infantry Regiment "Uad-Ras".
License production of the AMX-30E started in 1974, the first tank rolling out on the 30th October 1974, and from then until 25th June 1979 at a rate of 5 per month. The first contract covered 180 tanks. An additional 100 were covered by a new contract on 25th June 1979 to be produced between 1979 and 1983.
Those were the only 105mm armed tanks when Franco died. The M-48s were upgraded to M48A5E in 1979 and to M48A5E1 in 1983. The M47s were upgraded as M47E1 starting in 1945, the 45 M47E2 were produced in 1982 and the Infanteria de Marina M48s were upgraded to M48A3E in 1978.
That's most interesting that Legion received the first AMX-30s, after all. But the companies already existed. The 3d and 4th Tercios deployed to Spanish Sahara in 1958 and for the second time the Legion established light tank units, one company for each Saharan Tercio, and added organic artillery for the first time in the form of two air-transportable batteries. I think the tanks were M24, supplemented by some armored cars, but I never looked into the details. Do you have the OBs, RETAC21?
[Edit to add]: our IM pal Arturo Esteban Ceballos has links on his Blimdanet to this YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hEgb-BKggBk which also shows related links for Legion, Ejercito, etc.
[another edit to add]: 22/29Aug58 created I/II Grupos Ligeros Blindados and later the two btty (Nov58/Jun59) of air transportable arty[ea. 4x105mm/11, disband in early 1964) for Sahara ops. 1Jan66 renamed Grupo Ligero Sahariano I/II. The tanks were M24; this from the Sp Legion semiofficial history, Legión Española: Cincuenta Años de Historia, 2 vols., (Leganés, 1970, 1973). Vol I 1920-36 460p + App. Vol II desde 1936 hasta nuestras dias 508pp + Append; Published by the Sub-inspeccion de la Legión, Leganés; printed Madrid: Escelicer, S.A., [see pp. II:480-81]
[Edit to add]: our IM pal Arturo Esteban Ceballos has links on his Blimdanet to this YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hEgb-BKggBk which also shows related links for Legion, Ejercito, etc.
[another edit to add]: 22/29Aug58 created I/II Grupos Ligeros Blindados and later the two btty (Nov58/Jun59) of air transportable arty[ea. 4x105mm/11, disband in early 1964) for Sahara ops. 1Jan66 renamed Grupo Ligero Sahariano I/II. The tanks were M24; this from the Sp Legion semiofficial history, Legión Española: Cincuenta Años de Historia, 2 vols., (Leganés, 1970, 1973). Vol I 1920-36 460p + App. Vol II desde 1936 hasta nuestras dias 508pp + Append; Published by the Sub-inspeccion de la Legión, Leganés; printed Madrid: Escelicer, S.A., [see pp. II:480-81]
1975? How about 1579?
QUOTE(RETAC21 @ Wed 31 Jan 2007 2121)
The earliest trials of 105mm equipped tanks in Spain happened in 1964 with AMX-30, but when the decision to buy one was taken in 1966 the Leopard was chosen. However the Germans were reticent and the British were opposed to the acquisition or license production of the L-7, so in 1970 the AMX-30 was the winner, with 19 being bought for the Sahara as mentioned.
IIRC, the final contract was signed in 1967 or so, with the first lot of 19 vehicles being received in 1970. One was kept in the mainland for training with the rest being sent to the Legion armored forces in the Spanish Sahara to replace M24s used till tham as support tanks. These became pillboxes around the Villa Cisteros and El Aiun air bases.
QUOTE
There they were joined by M48A1s of the Alcazar de Toledo regiment in 1974 and when the Company was disbanded, the tanks were sent to the 55th Mechanised Infantry Regiment "Uad-Ras".
Yup, when things started to get hot in 1974 theArmy joined with a force of 26 M48A1 from the Alcazar de Toledo. These were quite worn out, although they behave almost flawlessy during their deployment save for a very high fuel (gasoline) consumption. The M48A1 was considered more reliable than the AMX-30 with its infamous Gravina centrifugal clutch, even after having in fact the mequis (Spanish slang word derived from "AMX") had professional crews.QUOTE
Those were the only 105mm armed tanks when Franco died. The M-48s were upgraded to M48A5E in 1979 and to M48A5E1 in 1983. The M47s were upgraded as M47E1 starting in 1945, the 45 M47E2 were produced in 1982 and the Infanteria de Marina M48s were upgraded to M48A3E in 1978.
The M47 upgrade started in 1975 with a first lot of 100 M47E. Later anoter batch of some 250 vehicles was upgraded to the E1 standard, with a rearangement of the crew heater and ammo panniers in place of the hull gunner. The E were later upgraded to E1. In 1983 45 vehicles were further upgraded to E2 with Rh-105-30 105/51mm gun and a passive night sight for the tank commander via a ENOSA 2nd gen light intensifier being introduced on his M20 sight, the gunner keeping the standard day only M20. At this time the 90mm armed E1 started to receive the IMI M94 90mm APFSDS round while the 105mma rmed vehicles had the M111.
In 1983 some 84 unmodernized M47s were bought from an Italian scrap head with the idea of using them to creat a family of specialized support vehicles based on the M47/60 hull/mechanics combination. At that time some prototypes for AVBL, recovery and sapper vehicles were made. In the end most of the plans had to be scrapped due to funding shortages and changing requeriments, with most of the Italian vehicles being scrapped unused, although there are some survivors including the plain jane M47 being shown at El Goloso, easy to ID due to its characteristic rainwater deflectors welded into the turret sides. In the end 22 M47s became M47ER2 recovery vehicles although I don`t know if these were made using Spanish or Italian overhauled hulls. These were too small to support the Leopard 2 and are used with M60 and now M109 units after the retirement of the M578.
QUOTE(Catalan @ Tue 30 Jan 2007 0230)
1. Why was the AMX-30 chosen over the M60A1 or the Leopard 1?
As already said, mostly politics.
QUOTE
3. After the TLE in 1992 from whom did Spain receive her M60s? Were they already upgraded to M60A3TTS status?
Spain received 260 M60A3/A3TTS from US Army stocks. these were in quite bad shape and before being distributed to units were fully overhauled. At this time the opportunity to make al A3 into A3TTS was taken.
Spain was also to receive 310 M60A1s. A first lot of 50 was received, these were in bad shape and considered obsolete. The rest of A1s was rejected and this lot was kept stored until being used to create Alacran sapper vehicles and AVBLs using the Leguan sliding bridge. These work alongside the original batch of M60 AVBL bought in the 70s with scissor bridges.
QUOTE(Kensuke @ Tue 30 Jan 2007 1025)
It's possible OTOH that Spain couldn't get M60/M60A1 because a lot of the production run was sent to Israel instead.
As far as I know, Spain never evaluated the M60 gun tank (unlike Argentina which bought a couple for evaluation purposes un the 70s).
The Leopard almost made a comeback in the 1990s when in 1993 chancellor Khol offered as many A5s as we would like to the Spanish prime minister Felipe Gonzalez during a bilateral summit. The idea was rejected as the Leopard 1A5 wasn`t considered the worth of creating a new logistical chain, while the M60s could use most of the current logistical chain developed for the M47/48.
QUOTE(sunday @ Tue 30 Jan 2007 1943)
I think we have to wait for Gorka, but I my memory don't fails, the Leo 2A6 became available shortly before or after the completion of the study, but before the signing of the agreement with Krauss-Maffei, and, in the interim. the L55 gun was made available, so after some more talks, in 1998 it was decided to buy Leos 2A6
Yup, the program budget was simply expanded to take the additional costs related to the L55 gun.
QUOTE(sunday @ Tue 30 Jan 2007 2019)
2. In 1967 the first 54 M48 were bought. In 1972 we bought 54 M48A1. Another 20 M48A1 came in 1978.
Plus 16 M48A1 with deep fording kits, probably from USMC stocks, for the Infanteria de Marina in 1967.
QUOTE
2. These tanks were upgraded by mounting a Diesel engine, replacement of optics, and removing the hull MG (in the M47s). Those first upgrades to M47E, M47E1, and M48A3E didn't include upgunning to 105mm.
4. The upgrade of the M48s, and M48A1s, to M48A5E began in 1979. The upgrade included the replacement of the gun by an American M68 or a German RH105/30 . The upgrade of the M47Es to M47E2, with the same guns, began in 1980.
5. In 1980 were bought 54 M48A2
4. The upgrade of the M48s, and M48A1s, to M48A5E began in 1979. The upgrade included the replacement of the gun by an American M68 or a German RH105/30 . The upgrade of the M47Es to M47E2, with the same guns, began in 1980.
5. In 1980 were bought 54 M48A2
Spain made two documented direct purchases for M48 tanks in the US:
54 M48s in 1967
54 M48A1 in 1972
After the succesful M47 upgrade started in 1975 the army decided to upgrade the M48 froce in 1978 or so, buying M48A5 kits in Israel. To make numbers, some 56 M48s were bought in Germany, these being A2 and A2C retired by the Bunderwher. These vehicles were delivered directly to the Chrysler España plant in Villaverde near Madrid and were upgraded to A5E1 (similar to the standard A5 upgrade) before being delivered to army units. Spain officialy declared having 164 M48s in the early 80s.
In 1983 the full A5E1 fleet was upgraded to the A5E2 standard, the main change being the addition of a Hughes Mk7 FCS with laser RF and passive night sights replacing the precious IR scopes, although the vehilcles deployed in Ceuta and Melilla kept their IR/white floodlights.
The Infanteria de Marina A1s were upgraded in 1978, receiving the AVDS engine plus a new FCS and becoming de facto A3s, that is, M48A3E. These vehicles received no more upgrades and were replaced in the early 90s by 17 M60A3TTS
QUOTE(sunday @ Tue 30 Jan 2007 2019)
Looking for info on the Leopardo 2E I stumbled upon this page (in Spanish).
According to that website,
According to that website,
Beware this site is incorrect: there was NO M60A3E ever! Also for those with Jane`s A&A on hand, the Spanish M60A3 and Leopard 2A4 NEVER officially received an "E" suffix as mentioned by Jane`s (at least in my late 1990s copy), the M60A3TTS and Leopard 2A4 are known as such, with any "E" anywhere.
There was indeed a M60A3E program started soon after the vehicles were received. At that time it was decided an upgraded M60A3 was to be the Spanish tank of the 90s and 2000s and a full upgraded for those vehicles received was studied. As far as I know, the upgraded was to include:
* A new, more powerful engine, probably either the 908hp AVDS-1790-5 or a 1200hp unit of US or European orogin.
* Reinforced suspesion
* A new digital FCS
* Passive armor modules for turret and hull. The modules shapes were evaluated in at least two operational vehicles
Fortunately in 1995 a deal was struck with Germany for the lease and ultimate license contruction of the Leopard 2 in Spain, so the M60 upgrade was dropped, the vehicles receiving only a full overhaul to use it as a gap until the Leopard 2E was received in the late 1990s/early 2000s. The program received a major setback when the former right wing goverment decided to sell the Spanish main contractor, Santa Barbara, to General Dynamics causing great levels of annoyance to our German partners!
Since we managed to pull you off the nurses arms...
According to "Carro de Combate AMX-30E" by Javier de Mazarrasa, the first trials of the AMX-30 were performed between the 2nd and the 10th of June, 1964 at the Alcazar de Toledo regiment, though no decision was taken at the time. The definitive contract was signed in May, 1970; the first Legionnaires arriving at the CIABC (French tank training center) on July 1970, and the Compañía de Carros de Combate Bakalí was set up on 1st October 1970, first six tanks crossing the border on 7th november 1970. The one that didn't sail to Sahara remained at Carabanchel in what later became Instituto Politecnico del Ejercito n.1.
QUOTE(Gorka L. Martinez-Mezo @ Wed 31 Jan 2007 2326)
IIRC, the final contract was signed in 1967 or so, with the first lot of 19 vehicles being received in 1970. One was kept in the mainland for training with the rest being sent to the Legion armored forces in the Spanish Sahara to replace M24s used till tham as support tanks.
According to "Carro de Combate AMX-30E" by Javier de Mazarrasa, the first trials of the AMX-30 were performed between the 2nd and the 10th of June, 1964 at the Alcazar de Toledo regiment, though no decision was taken at the time. The definitive contract was signed in May, 1970; the first Legionnaires arriving at the CIABC (French tank training center) on July 1970, and the Compañía de Carros de Combate Bakalí was set up on 1st October 1970, first six tanks crossing the border on 7th november 1970. The one that didn't sail to Sahara remained at Carabanchel in what later became Instituto Politecnico del Ejercito n.1.
Welcome back! How the "nursing" was?
What do you think about the book on "Programa Coraza"?
Regards.
Jose
What do you think about the book on "Programa Coraza"?
Regards.
Jose
QUOTE(RETAC21 @ Thu 1 Feb 2007 0012)
According to "Carro de Combate AMX-30E" by Javier de Mazarrasa, the first trials of the AMX-30 were performed between the 2nd and the 10th of June, 1964 at the Alcazar de Toledo regiment, though no decision was taken at the time. The definitive contract was signed in May, 1970; the first Legionnaires arriving at the CIABC (French tank training center) on July 1970, and the Compañía de Carros de Combate Bakalí was set up on 1st October 1970, first six tanks crossing the border on 7th november 1970. The one that didn't sail to Sahara remained at Carabanchel in what later became Instituto Politecnico del Ejercito n.1.
Well, I should have checked dates before writing!
QUOTE(sunday @ Thu 1 Feb 2007 0051)
What do you think about the book on "Programa Coraza"?
The Coraza 2000 was a huge achievement at the time it was presented, as for the first time in some 40 years the issue of AFV modernization for the Spanish Army was seriously taken after such failed attemps as the Lince in the early 80s.
The original program was made obsolescent by the major moves within the army in the last years. Switching from a conscript force to a fully professional one, lack of recruits, rising costs and the moves towards a leaner, more efficient and deployable force means less MBTs are needed and got the second Leopardo batch replaced by the Centauro. The Pizarro IFV program has been also hit, with only some 350 units to be purchased in favor of a new wheeled APC family to replace also the old BMR.
QUOTE(Gorka L. Martinez-Mezo @ Wed 31 Jan 2007 2226)
....
Yup, when things started to get hot in 1974 theArmy joined with a force of 26 M48A1 from the Alcazar de Toledo. These were quite worn out, although they behave almost flawlessy during their deployment save for a very high fuel (gasoline) consumption. The M48A1 was considered more reliable than the AMX-30 with its infamous Gravina centrifugal clutch, even after having in fact the mequis (Spanish slang word derived from "AMX") had professional crews.
....
Yup, when things started to get hot in 1974 theArmy joined with a force of 26 M48A1 from the Alcazar de Toledo. These were quite worn out, although they behave almost flawlessy during their deployment save for a very high fuel (gasoline) consumption. The M48A1 was considered more reliable than the AMX-30 with its infamous Gravina centrifugal clutch, even after having in fact the mequis (Spanish slang word derived from "AMX") had professional crews.
....
That’s really a key observation about the M48 and why it remained a favorite in the US. For all its ‘bugs’ when first introduced, it was such a balanced and [sweet]basic design that it worked almost as well when worn out as when new. Bizarre, I know, but mine were very worn in 1970-71!
QUOTE(Gorka L. Martinez-Mezo @ Wed 31 Jan 2007 2246)
Plus 16 M48A1 with deep fording kits, probably from USMC stocks, for the Infanteria de Marina in 1967.
I’d say they were likely from MAP stocks, less likely US Army foreign military sales. The deep fording kit is an army managed item [the army has done more landings than the USMC, but a lightning bolt will strike me here in Quantico for writing this]. The USMC converted its entire M48 force (421) to A3s during 1962-64, released them only to the army for its A5 program after 1974 and its intro of M60A1.
Aparte de este, bienvenido, amigo Gorka....
QUOTE(swerve @ Tue 30 Jan 2007 1326)
Some of the Italian M47s were given to Somalia when it changed sides from pro-Soviet to anti (because the USSR found a new, bigger friend - Ethiopia). The USA sometimes asked for kit like that to be given back when retired, but I don't know if that happened to any of the Italian M47s. A large number were kept in storage in Italy for years, with occasional proposals to do an M47E-style upgrade to some, but AFAIK they were scrapped eventually.
The numbers I remember seeing listed as stored were several hundred. Still a lot not accounted for. It's possible (NB: this is speculation) some reverted to US ownership, & were then sent to other countries, e.g. Greece & Turkey.
PS. Descriptions & photos of some AFVs in Somalia, including ex-Italian M47s -
http://membres.lycos.fr/France40/
The numbers I remember seeing listed as stored were several hundred. Still a lot not accounted for. It's possible (NB: this is speculation) some reverted to US ownership, & were then sent to other countries, e.g. Greece & Turkey.
PS. Descriptions & photos of some AFVs in Somalia, including ex-Italian M47s -
http://membres.lycos.fr/France40/
The US declared 640 or so M-47s in Italy under the CFE, surprising most observers. It appears that these were ex-Italian machines that reverted to US ownership. At the time they were declared, there were at least some still in Italian service (with the Carabinieri, I believe), and a large number that had only come out of service in recent years.
Pat
QUOTE(PCallahan @ Thu 1 Feb 2007 1436)
The US declared 640 or so M-47s in Italy under the CFE, surprising most observers. It appears that these were ex-Italian machines that reverted to US ownership. At the time they were declared, there were at least some still in Italian service (with the Carabinieri, I believe), and a large number that had only come out of service in recent years.
Pat
Pat
As I recall then, it was a surprise discovery of over 500 M47s in storage, forgotten by both IT and US authorities, leading to some
physical mopping up and adjustments to the CFE accounting. Can you imagine how the paperwork must have flown???
nevermind
QUOTE(Ken Estes @ Thu 1 Feb 2007 1504)
I’d say they were likely from MAP stocks, less likely US Army foreign military sales. The deep fording kit is an army managed item [the army has done more landings than the USMC, but a lightning bolt will strike me here in Quantico for writing this]. The USMC converted its entire M48 force (421) to A3s during 1962-64, released them only to the army for its A5 program after 1974 and its intro of M60A1.
Given their excellent adaptation to the marine enviroment I though these M48s may have been obtained from the USMC. I didn`t knew all thier 48s became A3s in such an early date.
QUOTE
Aparte de este, bienvenido, amigo Gorka....
Thanks!
QUOTE(Ken Estes @ Thu 1 Feb 2007 1442)
As I recall then, it was a surprise discovery of over 500 M47s in storage, forgotten by both IT and US authorities, leading to some
physical mopping up and adjustments to the CFE accounting. Can you imagine how the paperwork must have flown???
physical mopping up and adjustments to the CFE accounting. Can you imagine how the paperwork must have flown???
How do you lose track of 500 tanks?
QUOTE(Jim Martin @ Fri 2 Feb 2007 1213)
How do you lose track of 500 tanks?
Have ever been in Italy?
Gorka,
I recently passed up a chance to attend the war college in Zaragoza (well, more accurately, it was an invitation by a Lt. Col., who's name escapes me now, to enroll in his preperatory college for Zaragoza, in Madrid) because at the time (last summer) I wasn't really sure about what I wanted to do with my life. Ultimately, I chose to continue to get my engineering degree from UCSD in the United States. I e-mailed the MDE, but I have gotten no reponse (I think I've emailed them three times now), probably because they don't take me seriously (my Spanish grammar in writing is horrible). Does the Spanish Army have any post-graduate enlistment programs (well, specifically, from a foreign country - the United States). In regards to citizenship, I'm a citizen of Spain.
Thank you,
Jon
I recently passed up a chance to attend the war college in Zaragoza (well, more accurately, it was an invitation by a Lt. Col., who's name escapes me now, to enroll in his preperatory college for Zaragoza, in Madrid) because at the time (last summer) I wasn't really sure about what I wanted to do with my life. Ultimately, I chose to continue to get my engineering degree from UCSD in the United States. I e-mailed the MDE, but I have gotten no reponse (I think I've emailed them three times now), probably because they don't take me seriously (my Spanish grammar in writing is horrible). Does the Spanish Army have any post-graduate enlistment programs (well, specifically, from a foreign country - the United States). In regards to citizenship, I'm a citizen of Spain.
Thank you,
Jon
QUOTE(Jim Martin @ Fri 2 Feb 2007 1113)
How do you lose track of 500 tanks?
Tsktsk......
(Spareparts for the Kitsap Militia)
QUOTE(Catalan @ Sun 4 Feb 2007 0104)
Gorka,
I recently passed up a chance to attend the war college in Zaragoza (well, more accurately, it was an invitation by a Lt. Col., who's name escapes me now, to enroll in his preperatory college for Zaragoza, in Madrid) because at the time (last summer) I wasn't really sure about what I wanted to do with my life. Ultimately, I chose to continue to get my engineering degree from UCSD in the United States. I e-mailed the MDE, but I have gotten no reponse (I think I've emailed them three times now), probably because they don't take me seriously (my Spanish grammar in writing is horrible). Does the Spanish Army have any post-graduate enlistment programs (well, specifically, from a foreign country - the United States). In regards to citizenship, I'm a citizen of Spain.
Thank you,
Jon
I recently passed up a chance to attend the war college in Zaragoza (well, more accurately, it was an invitation by a Lt. Col., who's name escapes me now, to enroll in his preperatory college for Zaragoza, in Madrid) because at the time (last summer) I wasn't really sure about what I wanted to do with my life. Ultimately, I chose to continue to get my engineering degree from UCSD in the United States. I e-mailed the MDE, but I have gotten no reponse (I think I've emailed them three times now), probably because they don't take me seriously (my Spanish grammar in writing is horrible). Does the Spanish Army have any post-graduate enlistment programs (well, specifically, from a foreign country - the United States). In regards to citizenship, I'm a citizen of Spain.
Thank you,
Jon
It does. You have two routes into the Army, the easiest one is to become a "Reservista voluntario" and the tougher one to go through an oposición and become a professional officer. The place to ask is here:
http://www.militar.org.ua/phpBB2/viewforum...445c825ed89a9f0
The forum doesn't seem to be online. In regards to the roads to getting in, I think I'll have to go for the latter, given that becoming a reservist is hard for me given that I won't be able to live in the country until I finish my bachelors of the science.
QUOTE(Catalan @ Thu 8 Feb 2007 0232)
The forum doesn't seem to be online. In regards to the roads to getting in, I think I'll have to go for the latter, given that becoming a reservist is hard for me given that I won't be able to live in the country until I finish my bachelors of the science.
Then try this: http://www.soldados.com/universitarios/com.../titulacion.jsp
General Dynamics Santa Barbara Sistemas Presents Leopardo 2E MBT and Pizarro
Combat Vehicle at IDEX 07
MADRID, Feb. 14 /PRNewswire/ -- General Dynamics Santa Barbara Sistemas, a part of General Dynamics European Land Combat Systems, is presenting the
Leopardo 2E Main Battle Tank (MBT) and the VCIC Pizarro Infantry Combat Vehicle for the first time at IDEX 07 -- being held in Abu Dhabi from 18 to
22 February -- to demonstrate their operational capabilities and mobility in desert conditions. General Dynamics European Land Combat Systems is a
business unit of General Dynamics (NYSE:GD) .
The two vehicles, in service with the Spanish Army, will carry out a Mobility Demonstration on 18 and 20 February at IDEX 07. Both have been
brought to IDEX with the support of the International Golden Group (IGG).
The Leopardo 2E is built by General Dynamics under license from Krauss-Maffei Wegman, while the VCIC Pizarro was developed jointly by General
Dynamics Santa Barbara Sistemas and the Austrian company Steyr, also part of General Dynamics European Land Combat Systems.
Alfonso Ramonet, managing director of General Dynamics Santa Barbara Sistemas, said, "This is a very important step for us, presenting our two
leading military platforms to potential customers for the first time in the Gulf."
"The MBT Leopardo and the VCIC Pizarro demonstrate both the high technical levels demanded by the Spanish Army and the ability of the Spanish defence
industry to meet those needs," he added.
The Leopardo 2E is the most advanced armoured MBT in service with the Spanish Army. Deliveries of 219 tanks will be completed in 2008.
The Spanish Army has operated the VCIC Pizarro since the beginning of the decade, with a follow-up order for 212 vehicles -- including command,
forward observed, recovery and engineering variants.
General Dynamics Santa Barbara Sistemas (http://www.gdsbs.com/) has 1900 employees at nine sites in Spain. It is the main supplier of combat
vehicles, artillery solutions and ammunition to the Spanish Army. Its products are fielded in 47 countries. Current projects include the second
phase of the Pizarro, the Leopardo 2E MBT under license from KMW, and the 155/52 Howitzer SIAC for ground and coastal applications.
Combat Vehicle at IDEX 07
MADRID, Feb. 14 /PRNewswire/ -- General Dynamics Santa Barbara Sistemas, a part of General Dynamics European Land Combat Systems, is presenting the
Leopardo 2E Main Battle Tank (MBT) and the VCIC Pizarro Infantry Combat Vehicle for the first time at IDEX 07 -- being held in Abu Dhabi from 18 to
22 February -- to demonstrate their operational capabilities and mobility in desert conditions. General Dynamics European Land Combat Systems is a
business unit of General Dynamics (NYSE:GD) .
The two vehicles, in service with the Spanish Army, will carry out a Mobility Demonstration on 18 and 20 February at IDEX 07. Both have been
brought to IDEX with the support of the International Golden Group (IGG).
The Leopardo 2E is built by General Dynamics under license from Krauss-Maffei Wegman, while the VCIC Pizarro was developed jointly by General
Dynamics Santa Barbara Sistemas and the Austrian company Steyr, also part of General Dynamics European Land Combat Systems.
Alfonso Ramonet, managing director of General Dynamics Santa Barbara Sistemas, said, "This is a very important step for us, presenting our two
leading military platforms to potential customers for the first time in the Gulf."
"The MBT Leopardo and the VCIC Pizarro demonstrate both the high technical levels demanded by the Spanish Army and the ability of the Spanish defence
industry to meet those needs," he added.
The Leopardo 2E is the most advanced armoured MBT in service with the Spanish Army. Deliveries of 219 tanks will be completed in 2008.
The Spanish Army has operated the VCIC Pizarro since the beginning of the decade, with a follow-up order for 212 vehicles -- including command,
forward observed, recovery and engineering variants.
General Dynamics Santa Barbara Sistemas (http://www.gdsbs.com/) has 1900 employees at nine sites in Spain. It is the main supplier of combat
vehicles, artillery solutions and ammunition to the Spanish Army. Its products are fielded in 47 countries. Current projects include the second
phase of the Pizarro, the Leopardo 2E MBT under license from KMW, and the 155/52 Howitzer SIAC for ground and coastal applications.
Gorka,
Are there specific reasons why Spain is presenting the Leopardo at IDEX 07? Telling from the article from Idex UAE it's the only tank making a presentation, insofar. Is GDSBS looking for exports?
Are there specific reasons why Spain is presenting the Leopardo at IDEX 07? Telling from the article from Idex UAE it's the only tank making a presentation, insofar. Is GDSBS looking for exports?
Why did the legion lose its armour?
QUOTE(Catalan @ Tue 20 Feb 2007 1744)
Why did the legion lose its armour?
They lost and then regained it. It was needed to patrol the Sahara but was not needed for Fuerteventura. They regained it through the BMR some years ago when they became "medium".
How mecechanized are the two tercios?
QUOTE(Catalan @ Tue 20 Feb 2007 2205)
How mecechanized are the two tercios?
Don't know what you mean by 'two'. There are four, since 1950. Today, I & II are at Melilla and Ceuta, III is [formerly Fuerteventura] at Almeria with the BriLeg, and IV remains at Ronda, mostly an admin HQ for BOEL and X Bandera. Only the VII/VIII Banderas of III Tercio are mechanized, X Bandera is intended to be aerotransported.
I guess Wikipedia isn't that helpful. :/
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