General Dynamics may establish production of ASCOD infantry fighting vehicles in Ukraine
The Czechoslovak Group holding, which is the European representative office of General Dynamics, is considering launching the production of ASCOD infantry fighting vehicles in Ukraine. Ukrainian Armor will be the holding’s partner.
The BMPs assembled at the Ukrainian company’s facilities will be supplied to the Defense Forces. ASCOD was tested by the Ukrainian military during a visit to the manufacturer’s Spanish plant. According to a statement by Vladyslav Belbas, head of Ukrainian Armored Vehicles, the war with Russia has shown the value of armored vehicles on the battlefield. It allows to save the lives of infantrymen. That’s why the company wants to set up serial production of NATO-standard IFVs in Ukraine.
The Ukrainian delegation visited the General Dynamics plant in Trubia, Spain. During the visit, the Armed Forces of Ukraine tested the ASCOD to compare its capabilities with those of Ukrainian army armored vehicles.
The universal ASCOD platform can be used to mount various weapon systems such as combat modules with Mk 44 Bushmaster grenade launchers, turrets with 105 and 120 mm guns, ATGMs, etc. The BMP boasts STANAG 4569 ballistic protection and 4a/4b mine protection.
The ASCOD armored personnel carriers are in service with the British, Spanish, Austrian and Philippine armies.
