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The Venezuelan Bolivarian Marine Corps will began to receive new Russian-made artillery and armor systems by the end of 2012.
Combat Capability [42%],
Role and Missions,
Structure of the Navy,
in-service ships, surface ships, submarines, chronology.
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Venezuelan Marines to Receive Russian Arms
02/24/2012 |
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According to Infodefensa, artillery systems imported from Russia will be 152-mm self-propelled howitzers 2S19 Msta-S, 122-mm multiple launch rocket system BM-21 Grad, and 120-mm towed mortars 2S12 Sani. Armor will be represented by infantry fighting vehicles BMP-3 and amphibious armored personnel carriers BTR-80 (eight-by-eight axle configuration).
At present, Venezuelan marines operate 105-mm towed howitzers Oto Melara M-56 and 120-mm towed mortars Thomson-Brandt MO120 RT-61.
Armor park includes amphibious vehicles LVT-7 and armored 6x6 personnel carriers EE-11 Urutu made by Brazilian company Engesa.
At first, Russian arms will reinforce available assets and then fully replace them.
Reportedly, Venezuela plans to establish air cavalry units within Marine Corps and equip them with Russian helicopters Mi-17V-5.