Spain mulling purchase of US assault amphibious vehicles

Spain could buy BAE Systems-built assault amphibious vehicles(AAV) following a US State Department approval for the possible sale of 11 AAVs to the European country.

US Navy file photo of an amphibious assault vehicle (AAV) entering the well deck of amphibious transport dock ship USS Arlington (LPD 24).

As outlined in the approval, announced on March 15, Spain is looking to buy 11 AAVs in three different configurations under a deal that would be worth an estimated $107 million.

The state department’s approval does not indicate a contract was signed.

Also included in the deal would be Enhanced Armor Applique Kits (EAAK), spare and repair parts, tools and training material.

Spain currently operates 19 Assault Amphibious Vehicles (AAVs) that can be deployed from the navy’s flagship aircraft carrier ESPS Juan Carlos I and ro-ro ship Martín Posadillo.