ASCOD

File:Museo de Unidades Acorazadas de El Goloso (8615978811).jpg

The ASCOD was designed to replace the older light armoured fighting vehicles of the Austrian and Spanish armies, such as the M113 armored personnel carrier and the Saurer APC. The Ulan, the Austrian version of the Pizarro, would provide a flexible complement to their heavy Leopard 2A4. The Ulan would allow the Austrian army to deploy rapidly and effectively over longer distances, especially for foreseeable future operations—such as trouble-spots for UN operations.Quod Vadis Armour?

In 1982, Steyr-Daimler-Puch Spezialfahrzeug initiated the conception phase for the development of a new infantry fighting vehicle. This was followed by initial talks with the militaries of Greece, Norway and Switzerland to find the desired requirements for a new IFV. In 1985, the decision to develop a new IFV was made following the Bundesheer announcement of the military requirement for the Kampfschützenpanzer 90 (combat infantry fighting vehicle 90). Based on this, Steyr-Daimler-Puch Spezialfahrzeug started the conception of the vehicle. However, it was clear that Austria would not order new IFVs in the next years and that the development costs exceeded Steyr's budget.

Therefore, in 1988, a cooperation with the Spanish company Empresa National Santa Barbara S. A. was signed, which resulted in the development being renamed to ASCOD (Austrian Spanish Cooperative Development). Following this, the development of the ASCOD started. The hulls were manufactured in Spain. The ASCOD turrets were made by Steyr in Austria, based on the SP-30 turret design used on the scout version of the Pandur. In 1991, the first prototype was presented in 1991 in Sevilla. It was tested in 1992. Production began in 1996.{{cite web |url=http://www.gdsbs.com/web/sbs_3/index.asp?idioma=2&idzona=2&idcargo=6&idsubcargo=1&nombre=Armored%20Vehicles&nombrec=Tracked%20Vehicles&tipopag=3&menu_zona=2&menu_cargo=6&act=1&pulsar=6&posicion=6 |title=Santa Bárbara Sistemas website on ASCOD |access-date=2010-03-26 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110711081300/http://www.gdsbs.com/web/sbs_3/index.asp?idioma=2&idzona=2&idcargo=6&idsubcargo=1&nombre=Armored%20Vehicles&nombrec=Tracked%20Vehicles&tipopag=3&menu_zona=2&menu_cargo=6&act=1&pulsar=6&posicion=6 |archive-date=2011-07-11 |url-status=dead }}

Initially, the design was a cooperation between Austrian Steyr-Daimler-Puch AG and the Hellenic ELVO, formerly Steyr Hellas, after signing the contract for the domestically contracted Leonidas 2 APC. The contract, activated in 1988, required Steyr-Daimler-Puch AG to follow Hellenic instructions, and to include parts already produced in Greece, such as the wheels, tracks, and smoke-grenade launchers based on those of the Leopard 1 tank. Also, the secondary MG-3 gun — a variant of the Mauser 30F — was constructed in Greece. Greece withdrew from the program in 1991 after a change of government, requiring Steyr-Daimler-Puch to find a new partner. The IFV in Hellenic service would have the name Alexander the Great. Greece donated its design rights to Steyr-Daimler-Puch as compensation for the 450 IFVs cancelled.{{citation needed|date=August 2023}}

Following the numerous changed requirements during the ASCOD's conception and development phases, the weight increased from the original 18.8{{Spaces}}t to 25.2{{Nbsp}}t and finally 29.0 tonnes. The first prototype was trialled in Norway in 1993/94, but Norway decided to purchase the Swedish CV9030 instead. Following these trials, a slightly updated third prototype was built, essentially equalling the version offered as ASCOD to Austria, Spain and other countries. In 1994, Spain decided to order four pre-series vehicles after successful trials of the prototype. In 1996, Spain ordered 144 vehicles with the designation "Pizarro".

Austria's order for the first 112 ASCOD vehicles, "Ulan" in Austria, was delayed for financial reasons until May 1999. Four pre-series Ulan vehicles were given to the Austrian Bundesheer in April 2001 for the final qualification. The official handover happened in May 2001. In 2002, 28 Ulans were delivered. The next batch of 36 was delivered in 2003. In 2004 the order was completed. In contrast to the original prototypes, the Ulan was completely manufactured in Austria.

The ASCOD effectively brought Austrian and Spanish armour up to date. The Pizarro project was part of the greater Project CORAZA (Project Armour) to replace Spain's M113 APCs, M60A3s, and M110 artillery pieces.Candil, p. 42 By 2005, the Austrian army was equipped with 112 Ulan vehicles and Spain with 144 (123 IFV and 21 C2V).Principales Programas de Armamento de DGAM

In 2004, the Spanish Ministry of Defence ordered another 212 Pizarros (170 IFV, 5 C2V, 28 artillery observation, 8 recovery, 1 engineering vehicle) for €707.5 million Euros,Ministry of Defence with up to 356 units total planned.[http://www.army-technology.com/projects/ascod/ Army Technology website on ASCOD] By 2010 the cost of this second batch had increased to €845m.{{cite web|url=http://www.revistatenea.es/revistaatenea/revista/PDF/documentos/Documento_1026.pdf |title=Evaluación de los Programas Especiales de Armamento (PEAs) |author=Ministerio de Defensa |location=Madrid |date=September 2011 |publisher=Grupo Atenea |language=Spanish |accessdate=30 September 2012 |url-status=dead |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20131024113307/http://www.revistatenea.es/revistaatenea/revista/PDF/documentos/Documento_1026.pdf |archivedate=24 October 2013 }}

The improved ASCOD 2 vehicle was chosen by the UK MoD in March 2010 as the common base platform for the Scout Specialist Vehicle, later renamed Ajax. This selection was the result of the UK's Specialist Vehicle Programme. Around 300 British engineers at General Dynamics UK's Oakdale facility began developing the Ajax from the ASCOD 2 after being awarded the contract in 2010.{{Citation | newspaper = Defense News | url = http://www.defensenews.com/story.php?i=4549171&c=EUR&s=LAN | archive-url = https://archive.today/20130121101414/http://www.defensenews.com/story.php?i=4549171&c=EUR&s=LAN | url-status = dead | archive-date = January 21, 2013 |title=Britain to buy GD UK Vehicles}}{{Citation | url = http://www.generaldynamics.uk.com/news/general%20dynamics%20uk%20team%20awarded%20contract%20to%20deliver%20specialist%20vehicle%20for%20british%20army | publisher = UK | title = General Dynamics UK team awarded contract to deliver Specialist Vehicle for British Army | access-date = 2010-03-26 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20100325163611/http://www.generaldynamics.uk.com/news/general%20dynamics%20uk%20team%20awarded%20contract%20to%20deliver%20specialist%20vehicle%20for%20british%20army | archive-date = 2010-03-25 | url-status = dead }} The ASCOD 2 Scout SV was to replace the CVR(T) family of vehicles, including the FV107 Scimitar, the FV103 Spartan and the FV106 Samson armoured recovery vehicle.

General Dynamics offered the ASCOD 2 in an APC configuration in the competition for the Danish M113 replacement. The ASCOD 2 was not chosen. The Danish army preferred the wheeled Piranha 5.{{cite web|last1=de Larrinaga|first1=Nicholas|title=Denmark selects Piranha V, halts artillery buy|url=http://www.janes.com/article/51105/denmark-selects-piranha-v-halts-artillery-buy|website=janes.com|publisher=Jane's IHS|accessdate=20 September 2015}}

ASCOD entered service with the Spanish and Austrian armies in 2002. The British Army received its first ASCOD SV in 2020.{{cite web|url=http://www.janes.com/article/42735/update-uk-places-gbp3-5-billion-scout-sv-order|title=Janes | Latest defence and security news}} Despite being part of ISAF, Spain did not deploy the Pizarro IFV owing to its lack of a mine-protection kit.

File:SPZ Ulan Kampfraum.jpg

The primary version of the ASCOD is the tracked infantry-fighting vehicle. It follows a conventional layout, featuring a front-mounted engine and a rear compartment for the dismounts. The driver's seat is located at the left hull front. The commander and gunner sit in the slightly off-center–mounted two-man turret. The rear compartment has two hatches on the roof. The Ulan can carry eight dismounts.{{cite web|title=Schützenpanzer "Ulan"|url=http://www.bundesheer.at/waffen/waf_ulan.shtml|website=bundesheer.at|publisher=bundesheer.at (Austrian army)|accessdate=17 September 2015}} The Pizarro carries seven.

File:SPZ Ulan turret.jpg

The ASCOD mounts a 30 mm Mauser {{ill|MK 30|de|MK_30}} autocannon in a fully traversable electro-mechanical turret. The dual belt-fed 30 mm cannon, electrically stabilized on two planes, is able to fire at a rate of up to 770 rounds per minute and accurately engage targets on the move. As secondary armament, the ASCOD carries a 7.62 mm machine gun. The Spanish Pizarro is fitted with an MG-3 machine gun. The Ulan is fitted with an FN MAG. The Ulan carries 200 rounds of 30 mm and 600 rounds of 7.62 mm in the turret. A further 205 rounds for the 30 mm gun and up to 1,290 for the 7.62 mm machine gun are stored inside the hull. The Pizarro carries 300 rounds of main-gun ammunition.{{cite web|title=MATERIALES - Armamento Pesado Vehículo Combate|url=http://www.ejercito.mde.es/materiales/Armamento_pesado_veh_combate/PIZARRO.html|website=ejercito.mde.es/|publisher=Spanish Army}}

This armament is comparable to that of the M2 Bradley and the CV90, and performed well in a Norwegian vehicles trial, although it ultimately lost to the Swedish CV90.

The Ulan is fitted with a digital fire-control system built by Kollsman, utilising some components of the Kürassier A2's fire control system. The gunner's sight is manufactured by Elbit and provides 8× magnification in the day channel. The integrated thermal imager, featuring 2.8× and 8.4× magnification, can be accessed by both the gunner and the commander. The commander has a fixed day-sight with 8× magnification. The Pizarro uses the Mk-10 fire control system from Indra, featuring a full-solution digital ballistic computer, day channel, thermal channel and laser rangefinder. Future versions of the Mk-10 will be fitted with a new VC2 thermal imager.

File:Nebelwerfer an Ulan Schuetzenpanzer.jpg

File:SPz Ulan (5048211700).jpg MCS]]

The ASCOD is constructed of several rolled steel armour plates. The armour provides protection against 14.5 mm armour-piercing ammunition fired from distances of 500 meters or more along the frontal 60° arc,{{cite web|title=Der Schützenpanzer Ulan.|url=http://www.doppeladler.com/oebh/ulan.htm|website=doppeladler.com|accessdate=17 September 2015}}{{cite web |url=http://www.revistanaval.com/blimdanet/historias/articulo/articulo.htm |title=Article (in Spanish) on Revistanaval.com |access-date=2006-10-24 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090313094459/http://www.revistanaval.com/blimdanet/historias/articulo/articulo.htm |archive-date=2009-03-13 |url-status=dead }} with all-round protection against 7.62 mm ammunition. The turret is fitted with two banks of 76 mm Wegmann multi-purpose grenade launchers. These can fire smoke grenades for self-protection, or high-explosive grenades with fragmentation warhead to a maximum range of {{convert|50|m}}.

The Pizarro is additionally fitted with limited amounts of SABBLIR explosive reactive armour along the frontal arc and might be upgraded with more later. The SABBLIR reactive armour increases protection against shaped-charge warheads as used on rocket-propelled grenades. The Ulan has been fitted with MEXAS composite armour,{{cite web|title=References|url=http://www.rheinmetall-chempro.com/en/rhc/systeme_und_produkte/referenzen_2/index.php|website=rheinmetall-chempro.com|publisher=Rheinmetall Chempro|accessdate=17 September 2015}} which increases ballistic protection against up to 30 mm APFSDS rounds fired from a 1,000 m range over the forward 30° arc, and all-round protection against 14.5 mm armour piercing incendiary (API) rounds from a range of 500 m.{{cite web|last1=Kosar|first1=Dipl.-Ing. Franz|title="Ulan" - Der neue Schützenpanzer des Österreichischen Bundesheeres|url=http://www.bundesheer.at/truppendienst/ausgaben/artikel.php?id=1251|website=bundesheer.at|publisher=Truppendienst magazine|accessdate=17 September 2015}} The Ulan is fitted with spall-liners to minimise casualties in case of armour penetration.

File:Schützenpanzer Ulan (6130725680).jpg

In terms of mobility, the Spanish Pizarro is fitted with a {{convert|600|hp}} MTU SV-183 TE22 engine, while the Austrian Ulan includes a {{convert|720|hp}} MTU 8V-199-TE20 engine. These have power-to-weight ratios of 21 and 25, respectively, offering both vehicles excellent mobility. Both versions use a Renk HSWL 106C hydro-mechanical transmission, and suspension — based on torsion bars and rotary dampers — designed and manufactured by "Piedrafita".{{cite web|author=[sti] STI soluciones www.stisoluciones.com |url=http://www.Piedrafita.com |title=Rotary dampers (Shock absorbers) / Rugged Testing / Engineering services |publisher=Piedrafita |date= |accessdate=2022-04-15}}

The ASCOD uses Diehl type-129 tracks.{{cite web|title=Superior performance in any environment - ASCOD|url=http://www.gdels.com/brochures/tracked_ascod2.pdf|website=General Dynamics European Land Systems (gdels.com)|publisher=General Dynamics European Land Systems|accessdate=20 September 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150615234144/http://www.gdels.com/brochures/tracked_ascod2.pdf|archive-date=15 June 2015|url-status=dead}} The Pizarro has a maximum speed of 70 km/h, and a maximum reverse speed of 35 km/h. The ASCOD has a ground-clearance of {{convert|450|mm|in}}. The Ulan can accelerate from 0 to {{convert|50|km/h|mph}} in 14 seconds. It can cross ditches of {{convert|2.3|m}}, climb walls of {{convert|950|mm}} and ford rivers of {{convert|1.2|m}} depth. It is able to drive at 75% gradient and 40% side slope.

File:SPZ Ulan frontview.jpg

File:GuentherZ 2011-08-06 0103 Panzer ASCOD Fahrschulversion.jpg

The ASCOD chassis has been used for a number of vehicles in Spanish service and numerous private ventures developed for the export market. Aside from the IFV version, the ASCOD has been offered as light tank and scout vehicle.{{cite web|title=ASCOD / SCOUT/RECCE|url=http://www.gdels.com/brochures/tracked_ascod2scout.pdf|website=gdels.com|publisher=General Dynamics European Land Systems|access-date=2015-09-22|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150721013236/http://www.gdels.com/brochures/tracked_ascod2scout.pdf|archive-date=2015-07-21|url-status=dead}}{{cite web|title=ASCOD / DF|url=http://www.gdels.com/brochures/tracked_ascod2direct.pdf|website=gdels.com|publisher=General Dynamics European Land Systems|accessdate=20 September 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160310010637/https://www.gdels.com/brochures/tracked_ascod2direct.pdf|archive-date=10 March 2016|url-status=dead}} The ASCOD Direct Fire light tank can mount a number of different commercial turrets with 105 or 120 mm tank guns. It is expected to weigh about 30 tonnes.

Steyr-Daimler-Puch Spezialfahrzeuge has developed an improved version called Ulan 2. This was never ordered by the Austrian government.{{usurped|1=[https://web.archive.org/web/20070702171516/http://www.military-today.com/apc/ulan_ifv.htm Military Today website on the Ulan]}}

An improved version of the ASCOD, called ASCOD 2, has been developed by General Dynamics and was presented in 2004. The ASCOD 2 uses the more powerful MTU 8V 199T21 engine, which provides a {{convert|600|kW|hp}} output, together with a Renk HSWL 256 B transmission and Diehl 1028 tracks. It has an increased gross vehicle weight of 38 tons, with a growth potential to 42 tons. The ASCOD 2 has been presented as an IFV (with the SP-30 turret of the original ASCOD), as an APC with a raised roof and armed with an M2 machine gun (in a BAE Lemur remote weapon station){{cite web|last1=Foss|first1=Christopher F.|title=Eurosatory 2014: GDELS-SBS displays latest ASCOD 2|url=http://www.janes.com/article/39203/eurosatory-2014-gdels-sbs-displays-latest-ascod-2|website=janes.com|publisher=Jane's IHS|accessdate=20 September 2015}} and as a specialized APC for urban combat (designated the ASCOD PSO).

In June 2008, GDELS, in conjunction with KMW, announced Donar, a medium-weight 155 mm self-propelled artillery system based on the KMW Artillery Gun Module (AGM) autonomous artillery system, integrated with the ASCOD 2 chassis. A prototype has begun mobility and firing trials in Germany.{{cite web |url=http://www.gdels.com/descargas/DONARPressRelease17.06.08.REV.pdf |title=General Dynamics European Land Systems Press Release |access-date=2010-03-28 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110711081410/http://www.gdels.com/descargas/DONARPressRelease17.06.08.REV.pdf |archive-date=2011-07-11 |url-status=dead }}{{cite web|title=DONAR - The revolution of artillery|url=http://www.kmweg.com/home/artillery/autonomous-howitzer/donar/product-information.html|website=kmweg.de|publisher=Krauss-Maffei Wegmann|accessdate=22 September 2015}}

In March 2010, the UK MoD announced that ASCOD 2 will be used as the base for the Scout Specialist Vehicle of the FRES program,{{cite web|title=THE HOUSEHOLD CAVALRY & ROYAL ARMOURED CORPS - Future Rapid Effect System Specialist Vehicles (FRES SV)|url=http://www.armedforces.co.uk/army/listings/l0131.html|website=armedforces.co.uk|accessdate=22 September 2015}} which was later renamed to "Ajax".

At Eurosatory 2018, General Dynamics European Land Systems presented a new variant of the ASCOD 2. The ASCOD medium main battle tank (MMBT), with a gross vehicle weight of 42 tonnes, is fitted with the Italian Leonardo Defence Systems HITFACT 120{{Nbsp}}mm turret. This is armed with a 7.62{{Nbsp}}mm coaxial machine gun, a 7.62{{Nbsp}}mm pintle-mounted gun and a 12.7{{Nbsp}}mm remote weapon station on the roof. The 120{{Nbsp}}mm smoothbore gun is coupled to a computerised fire control system, with the commander and gunner having stabilised day/thermal sights incorporating a laser rangefinder.{{cite web | url=https://www.janes.com/article/80782/growing-the-family-es18d1 | title=Janes | Latest defence and security news }}

• ASCOD IFV
• Driver training vehicle – ASCOD hull fitted with a fixed superstructure instead of turret.
• ASCOD Scout/Recce – ASCOD fitted with extensive ISTAR equipment and a three-man crew.
• LT-105 Light Tank (ASCOD Direct Fire) – A light tank, designed for the export market, with a 105 mm or 120 mm gun. There are multiple turret options available, made by a different manufacturers: Oto Melara, Cockerill, General Dynamics, and Denel Land Systems (formerly known as LIW).{{Citation | place = ZA | url = http://www.denellandsystems.co.za/products_lmt_105_full_description.html | publisher = Denel Land Systems | title = LMT 105}}
• ASCOD 2 APC – ASCOD 2 hull with a raised roof and a remote weapon station. Offered to Denmark as an M113 replacement.
• ASCOD 2 PSO – ASCOD 2 APC with improved armor protection.
• Donar – Medium-weight 155 mm self-propelled howitzer based on the KMW AGM

File:AscodMBT.png

• ASCOD 2 MMBT – As the name suggests, it is intended as a medium main battle tank armed with either a 120{{Nbsp}}mm or 105{{Nbsp}}mm HITFACT turret.

File:Scout SV Specialist Vehicle MOD 45157765.jpg

{{main|Ajax (armoured vehicle)}}

The ASCOD vehicle was chosen by the UK MoD as the common base platform on which the Ajax would be developed. This selection was the result of the UK's Specialist Vehicle Programme. Around 300 British engineers at General Dynamics UK's Oakdale facility began developing the Scout from the ASCOD after being awarded the contract in 2010.

These vehicles are the replacements for the CVR(T) family vehicles: FV107 Scimitar (armoured reconnaissance), FV103 Spartan (specialist personnel carrier) and FV106 Samson (recovery vehicle).

Recce Block 2 is expected to include ambulance, engineer reconnaissance and command & control replacements for the CVR(T) FV104 Samaritan (armoured ambulance) and FV105 Sultan (command vehicle).

The Ajax is planned to include the following upgrades:{{Citation | url = http://www.armyrecognition.com/united_kingdom_british_army_light_armoured_vehicle/ascod_2_sv_fres_program_scout_armoured_vehicle_data_sheet_description_information_specifications_uk.html | title = ASCOD 2 data | publisher = Army Recognition}}

• The main weapon will be a 40{{Nbsp}}mm autocannon with "telescoped ammunition" (40CT cannon).
• The armour will provide basic ballistic and mine protection, with upgrade add-on packages for improved protection when needed.
• The chassis will be upgraded with enhanced suspension combining torsion bars and hydraulic dampers.
• An enhanced powertrain comprising a 600 kW (805 bhp) MTU V8 199 diesel engine and Renk 256B fully automatic transmission.
• The welded turret will be built by Lockheed Martin UK.
• Assembly and testing will take place in the UK{{cite web | url=http://www.janes.com/article/53167/scout-sv-to-be-assembled-in-uk | title=Janes | Latest defence and security news }}

The vehicle's normal combat weight is 34 tonnes.

File:Pizarro Desfile de las Fuerzas Armadas - 2008.jpg

The ASCOD Pizarro is built by GDELS Santa Bárbara Sistemas, and operated by the Spanish Army. It exists in multiple variants.

• Operational variants:
• VCI/C Pizarro – "vehículo de combate infantería/caballería", an infantry / cavalry fighting vehicle
• VCPC – "vehiculo de puesto de mando", a command vehicle
• VCZ Castor – "vehículo de combate de zapadores", a sapper combat vehicle
• Planned variants that didn't enter service:
• VCOAV – "vehiculo de observador advanzado", an advanced reconnaissance vehicle
• VCREC – "vehiculo recuperador", an armoured recovery vehicle

The {{ill|Vehículo de Apoyo de Cadenas|lt=VAC|es|Vehículo de Apoyo de Cadenas}} is the successor of the M113 TOA in the Spanish Army: It is based on the VCZ Castor chassis, it takes over the electronic architecture of the he {{ill|VCR Dragón 8×8|lt=|es|Dragón (vehículo blindado)}}, and exists in the following variants:{{Cite web |last=InfoDefensa |first=Revista Defensa |title=Defensa y Tess Defence trabajan en la definición de los prototipos y la preserie del blindado VAC |url=https://www.infodefensa.com/texto-diario/mostrar/4987124/defensa-tess-defence-trabajan-definicion-prototipos-preserie-vac |access-date=2024-09-10 |website=Infodefensa - Noticias de defensa, industria, seguridad, armamento, ejércitos y tecnología de la defensa |language=es}}

• PP – "portapersonal", an armoured personnel carrier
• DCC – "defensa contracarro", a tank hunter
• PC – "puesto de mando", a command post vehicle
• CPU – "carga pick-up", a cargo transport pick-up vehicle
• CB – "carga blindada", an armoured cargo transport vehicle
• PM – "mortera pesado de 120 mm", a mortar carrier
• OAV – "observador avanzado", an artillery observation vehicle
• AMB – "ambulancia", an armoured ambulance
• REC – "recuperación", an armoured recovery vehicle

{{main|Sabrah light tank}}

File:ASCOD_2_Sabrah_Light_Tank.jpg

The Sabrah light tank's tracked version is a new variant developed and offered by Elbit Systems for the Philippine Army's Light Tank Acquisition Project.{{Cite web |date=28 February 2022 |title=Sabrah Light Tank, Israel |url=https://www.army-technology.com/projects/sabrah-light-tank-israel/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20220624020007/https://www.army-technology.com/projects/sabrah-light-tank-israel/ |archive-date=24 June 2022 |access-date=9 July 2023 |website=Army Technology}} It uses the ASCOD 2 platform with a new turret, armed with 105 mm gun developed by Elbit in partnership with Denel Land Systems.{{Cite web |date=17 July 2022 |title=Detailing Elbit's Sabrah Light Tank Offer |url=https://www.pitzdefanalysis.net/2022/07/detailing-elbits-sabrah-light-tank-offer.html |access-date=9 July 2023 |website=Pitz Defense Analysis}} The Notice of Award (NOA) for the project was issued to Elbit Systems Land by the Department of National Defense in September 2020.{{cite web |url=https://www.phdefresource.com/2019/11/light-tank-acquisition-project-of.html?m=1 |title=Light Tank Acquisition Project of the Philippine Army |website=Philippine Defense Resource |access-date=June 24, 2019}}

ASCOD Ulan is built by Steyr-Daimler-Puch Spezialfahrzeuge. It includes a more powerful 530 kW engine, and a different fire control system built by Kollsman.

In February 2023, a modernisation of the 112 IFVs was announced.{{Cite web |title=Austria releases 561 million to modernize its SPz Ulan infantry fighting vehicle {{!}} Defense News July 2023 Global Security army industry {{!}} Defense Security global news industry army year 2023 {{!}} Archive News year |url=https://www.armyrecognition.com/defense_news_july_2023_global_security_army_industry/austria_releases_561_million_to_modernize_its_spz_ulan_infantry_fighting_vehicle.html |access-date=2023-07-07 |website=www.armyrecognition.com|date=5 July 2023 }} It focuses mostly on the electronic, providing new observation equipment, a digital panel for the driver. For the rest, a renewed electrical turret drive, other revisions to the electrical system and the drivetrain.

{{more citations needed section|date=December 2020}}

;{{flag|Austria}} (112)

:Delivered between 2001 and 2005{{Cite web |title=ASCOD (Pizarro / Ulan) Armoured Fighting Vehicle |url=https://www.army-technology.com/projects/ascod/ |access-date=2024-06-26 |website=Army Technology |language=en-US}}

:* 112 Ulan (IFV)

:* 209 additional Ulan in various versions will be ordered. https://www.instagram.com/stories/bundesheer.online/3591598978786074060?utm_source=ig_story_item_share&igsh=NnhscmJyZW1ydjV1

; {{flag|Philippines}} (20)

:Ten (10) units in light tank configuration and one Command Post Vehicle unit were formally received and inducted into service as of 5 March 2024.{{Cite web |last=Kajal |first=Kapil |date=6 March 2024 |title=Philippine Army receives first batch of Guarani APCs |url=https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/philippine-army-receives-first-batch-of-guarani-apcs |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20240313003601/https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/philippine-army-receives-first-batch-of-guarani-apcs |archive-date=13 March 2024 |access-date=13 March 2024 |website=Janes}}{{cite web |date=8 March 2024 |title=Philippines formally inducts first batch of new ASCOD 2 Sabrah light tanks, Guarani 6x6 APCs |url=https://www.asiapacificdefensejournal.com/2024/03/philippines-formally-inducts-first.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20240313005204/https://www.asiapacificdefensejournal.com/2024/03/philippines-formally-inducts-first.html |archive-date=13 March 2024 |access-date=12 March 2024 |website=Asia Pacific Defense Journal}} The total order are as follows:

:* 18 Sabrah light tanks

:* 1 Command vehicle

:* 1 recovery vehicle

;{{flag|Spain}} (261)

:In service:{{Cite web |title=General Dynamics ASCOD (Austrian Spanish Cooperation Development) Armored Fighting Vehicle (AFV) |url=https://www.militaryfactory.com/armor/detail.php?armor_id=913 |access-date=2024-06-26 |website=www.militaryfactory.com}}

:* 204 VCI/C – infantry fighting vehicles

:* 21 VCPC – command and communications vehicles

:* 36 VCZ – sapper combat vehicles

:Details of the orders:

:* Initial order of 144 Pizarro in 1996, delivery by 2002:{{Cite web |last=Defensa.com |date=2020-11-18 |title=Avances en los blindados Pizarro Fase 2 para el Ejército de Tierra-noticia defensa.com - Noticias Defensa España |url=https://www.defensa.com/espana/avances-blindados-pizarro-fase-2-para-ejercito-tierra |access-date=2024-06-26 |website=Defensa.com |language=es}}

:** 123 VCI/C – infantry fighting vehicles

:** 21 VCPC – command and communications vehicles

:* Second order reduced to 117 Pizarro in 2004 after several cuts, the initial order was for 212 Pizarro, delivered between 2011 and 2015:{{Cite web |last=OuinetAdmin |date=2004-01-28 |title=Spain Orders Armored Vehicles, Upgrades (Jan. 29) |url=https://www.defense-aerospace.com/spain-orders-armored-vehicles-upgrades-jan-29/ |access-date=2024-06-26 |website=Defense aerospace |language=en-US}}

:** 81 VCI/C (170 planned initially)

:** 36 VCZ – sapper combat vehicles, only 1 was planned initially

:** Cancelled variants with that order:

:*** VCPC, 5 were planned initially

:*** VCOAV – forward artillery observer vehicles, 28 were planned initially

:*** VCREC – armoured recovery vehicles, 8 were planned initially

; {{flag|United Kingdom}} (589)

: The Ajax won the competition FRES in 2010, and the following variants were ordered.{{cite web |last=de Larrinaga |first=Nicholas |date=16 September 2015 |title=DSEI 2015: UK's Scout SV renamed Ajax as first turreted prototype unveiled |url=http://www.janes.com/article/54339/dsei-2015-uk-s-scout-sv-renamed-ajax-as-first-turreted-prototype-unveiled |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150920010323/http://www.janes.com/article/54339/dsei-2015-uk-s-scout-sv-renamed-ajax-as-first-turreted-prototype-unveiled |archive-date=20 September 2015 |work=Jane's Defence Weekly}}{{cite news |last=Coupe |first=Georgina |date=18 June 2021 |title=All The Gen On The AJAX Military Vehicle |work=Forces Network |publisher=British Forces Broadcasting Service |url=https://www.forces.net/services/army/all-gen-ajax-military-vehicle |access-date=3 June 2022}}

:* 245 Ajax

:* 93 Ares

:* 112 Athena

:* 50 Apollo

:* 38 Atlas

:* 51 Argus

;{{flag|United States}} (96 ordered, 504 planned)

: The M10 Booker, an infantry support vehicle based on the Griffin II platform, derived from the ASCOD 2, was selected in June 2022 as the winner of the US Army's Mobile Protected Firepower program.

:* 96 M10 for $1.14 billion The initial contract is for 96 vehicles with first delivery by the end of 2023. The first units are expected to be equipped with it by Q4FY25.{{cite web |date=28 June 2022 |title=General Dynamics wins $1.14 billion Mobile Protected Firepower contract |url=https://breakingdefense.com/2022/06/general-dynamics-wins-1-14-billion-mobile-protected-firepower-contract/ |access-date=June 28, 2022 |website=Breaking Defense}}

:* Army Acquisition Objective (AAO) of 504 M10 in total{{Cite web |title=IF11859 |url=https://crsreports.congress.gov/product/pdf/IF/IF11859 |website=crsreports.congress.gov}}

:First delivery, January 2024 {{Cite web |title=IAV 2024: First M10 Booker combat vehicle to be delivered in February |url=https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/iav-2024-first-m10-booker-combat-vehicle-to-be-delivered-in-february |access-date=2024-05-15 |website=Janes.com |date=30 January 2024 |language=en}}

; File:ASCOD at NATO Days 2016.jpg{{flag|Spain}} (394)

: The Spanish Army signed a contract with TESS Defence for the purchase of the VAC "Vehículo de Apoyo de Cadenas" in December 2023 for around €2 billion. It is planned to succeed to the TOA M-113.{{Cite web |last=Domingo |first=Juster |date=2023-12-29 |title=Spain Awards $2.2 Billion in Armored Vehicle Deal |url=https://www.thedefensepost.com/2023/12/29/spain-tess-defence-armored-vehicle/ |access-date=2024-05-15 |website=The Defense Post |language=en-us}}{{Cite web |date=2024-01-01 |title=Spain awards TESS Defence contract for multipurpose tracked vehicles |url=https://defence-industry.eu/spain-awards-tess-defence-contract-for-multipurpose-tracked-vehicles/ |access-date=2024-05-15 |language=en}}

: Variants planned:

:* Combat support

:** armoured personnel carriers

:** anti-tank defence

:** command post

:** forward observer

:** 120 mm mortar carrier (potentially the ASCOD equipped with the Escribano GMOS mortar turret){{Cite web |last=Valpolini |first=Paolo |date=2023-06-16 |title=Escribano unveils its new GMOS mortar turret |url=https://www.edrmagazine.eu/escribano-unveils-its-new-gmos-mortar-turret |access-date=2024-05-15 |website=EDR Magazine |language=en-GB}}

:** sapper (VCZ Castor)

:* Logistics

:** ambulance

:** cargo

:** recovery versions

;{{flag|Latvia}} (42)

: The Latvian Land Forces decided to replace the CVR(T) with the ASCOD 2 platform. Among its competitors were the CV90, the K21 and the Tulpar.{{Cite web |last=Miller |first=Emily Ryan |date=2023-12-18 |title=Latvia set to buy new fighting vehicles by 2028 |url=https://defence-blog.com/latvia-2028-infantry-vehicles-plan/ |access-date=2024-11-06 |website=Defence Blog}} Latvia entered negotiations with GDELS SBS in November 2024 with the intention to procure infantry fighting vehicles. The specifics of the variant are unknown as of 2025.{{Cite web |date=2024-11-11 |title=Latvia intends to buy Spanish ASCOD fighting vehicles |url=https://eng.lsm.lv/article/society/defense/11.11.2024-latvia-intends-to-buy-spanish-ascod-fighting-vehicles.a575951/ |access-date=2024-11-12 |website=eng.lsm.lv |language=en}}{{Cite web |date=2024-11-12 |title=Lettland verhandelt über den Kauf von ASCOD-Schützenpanzern |url=https://www.hartpunkt.de/lettland-verhandelt-ueber-den-kauf-von-ascod-schuetzenpanzern/ |access-date=2024-11-12 |language=de}}

: An order for the first batch of 42 ASCOD IFVs was signed in January 2025, for a value of €373 million.{{Cite web |last=Valpolini |first=Paolo |date=2025-01-30 |title=GDELS to supply Latvia with ASCOD Infantry Fighting Vehicles |url=https://www.edrmagazine.eu/gdels-to-supply-latvia-with-ascod-infantry-fighting-vehicles |access-date=2025-01-30 |website=EDR Magazine |language=en-GB}}{{Cite web |date=2025-01-30 |title=Latvia to buy 42 ASCOD infantry fighting vehicles |url=https://eng.lsm.lv/article/society/defense/30.01.2025-latvia-to-buy-42-ascod-infantry-fighting-vehicles.a585784/ |access-date=2025-01-30 |website=eng.lsm.lv |language=en}} Around 30% of the production process of the vehicles is planned to take place in Latvia.

: The turret selected is the unmanned Elbit UT30 MK2, equipped with the Mk44 Bushmaster II 30mm chain gun, the Spike LR2 and a machine gun.{{Cite web |date=2025-04-09 |title=Elbit liefert unbemannte Türme für lettische ASCOD-Schützenpanzer |url=https://www.hartpunkt.de/elbit-liefert-unbemannte-tuerme-fuer-lettische-ascod-schuetzenpanzer/ |access-date=2025-04-09 |language=de}}

;{{flag|Brazil}}

: The Brazilian Army is looking for a modern tank (light or main battle tank) and an infantry fighting vehicle. The ASCOD 2 is in the competition, and the base base is offered in several options:{{Cite web |last=InfoDefensa |first=Revista Defensa |title=Novos Carros de Combate e Veículos de Fuzileiros para o Exército Brasileiro por US$ 5,3 bilhões |url=https://www.infodefensa.com/texto-diario/mostrar/4949948/novos-carros-combate-e-veiculos-fuzileiros-exercito-brasileiro-us-53-bilhes |access-date=2025-02-27 |website=Infodefensa - Noticias de defensa, industria, seguridad, armamento, ejércitos y tecnología de la defensa |language=es}}

:* Light tank:

:** M10 Booker

:** ASCOD 2 120mm (a Spanish prototype of light tank)

:* IFV: an ASCOD 2 with a turret with a 35mm canon.

; {{flag|Poland}} (700)

: GDELS is offering the ASCOD 2 vehicle to fulfil the need for a heavy IFV for the Polish Army. It would be equipped with the ZSSW-30 remote controlled turret.{{Cite web |last=Palowski |first=Jakub |date=2025-04-17 |title=New Player in Poland’s Armored Programme [DEFENCE24 EXCLUSIVE] |url=https://defence24.com/industry/new-player-in-polands-armored-programme-defence24-exclusive |access-date=2025-04-17 |website=defence24.com |language=pl}}

: The Polish Army is looking for a heavy IFV (CBWP) for its Abrams tank brigades. The other vehicles in competition include the General Dynamics Ajax, the Rheinmetall KF-41 Lynx, the BAE Systems AMPV, the Otokar Tulpar and a South Korean the AS21 Redback.

: Up to 700 vehicles are planned under the CBWP programme.{{Cite web |date=2023-08-21 |title=700 CBWP infantry fighting vehicles for the Polish Army |url=https://meta-defense.fr/en/2023/08/21/vehicules-de-combat-dinfanterie-cbwp/ |access-date=2025-04-17 |website=meta-defense.fr |language=en}} https://defence24.com/industry/new-player-in-polands-armored-programme-defence24-exclusive

; {{flag|Portugal}}

: The Portuguese Army is looking for an IFV, and the ASCOD 2 is being offered by GDELS SBS.{{Cite web |last=InfoDefensa |first=Revista Defensa |title=El Ascod de GDELS-Santa Bárbara Sistemas, candidato al programa de vehículos de cadenas de Portugal |url=https://www.infodefensa.com/texto-diario/mostrar/5196035/ascod-gdels-santa-barbara-sistemas-candidato-programa-vehiculos-cadenas-portugal |access-date=2025-02-27 |website=Infodefensa - Noticias de defensa, industria, seguridad, armamento, ejércitos y tecnología de la defensa |language=es}}

; {{flag|Romania}}

: Romania has a budget of $3.3 billion for 298 infantry fighting vehicles. According to local observers and public information, the potential candidates are the ASCOD 2, the Hanwha AS-21 Redback, and the Rheinmetall KF-41 Lynx. The award procedure is ongoing, a winner will be selected in 2024, and the contract should also be signed in 2024.{{Cite web |last=Adamowski |first=Jaroslaw |date=2024-01-22 |title=Romanian government readies fighting vehicle, howitzer deals in 2024 |url=https://www.defensenews.com/global/europe/2024/01/22/romanian-government-readies-fighting-vehicle-howitzer-deals-in-2024/ |access-date=2024-01-26 |website=Defense News |language=en}}

; {{flag|Spain}} (109)

: The Spanish Army is looking for a successor to the M109A5.{{Cite web |title=Spain to acquire 145 advanced self-propelled howitzers |url=https://defence-blog.com/spain-to-acquire-145-advanced-self-propelled-howitzers/}} The total desired is of 36 wheeled self-propelled howitzers, and 109 tracked howitzers. GDELS-SBS is offering the Piranha Advanced Artillery Carrier (Piranha IV) and the ASCOD 2 platforms on which the RCH-155 modules would be installed.

: The tracked variant was presented in 2025, and is known as the NEMESIS.{{Cite web |last=ES&T Redaktion |date=2025-05-12 |title=Weltpremiere: GDELS stellt Gepanzertes Artilleriesystem NEMESIS vor |url=https://esut.de/2025/05/meldungen/59699/weltpremiere-gdels-stellt-gepanzertes-artilleriesystem-nemesis-vor/ |access-date=2025-05-12 |website=esut.de |language=de-DE}}

;{{flag|Ukraine}}

: GDELS SBS presented a plan in June 2024 to manufacture 50 ASCOD infantry fighting vehicles per year for the Ukrainian Army.{{Cite web |last=InfoDefensa |first=Revista Defensa |title=Santa Bárbara Sistemas presentó al Gobierno un plan de producción de 50 blindados Ascod al año para Ucrania |url=https://www.infodefensa.com/texto-diario/mostrar/4887416/santa-barbara-sistemas-presento-gobierno-plan-produccion-hasta-50-blindados-ano-ucrania |access-date=2024-06-26 |website=Infodefensa - Noticias de defensa, industria, seguridad, armamento, ejércitos y tecnología de la defensa |language=es}}

: This plan follows a meeting between industry representatives and the Spanish state. In May 2024 a defence agreement between Spain and Ukraine led to this offer.

: Also, in September 2023, an agreement was made between GDELS and LLC Ukrainian Armored Vehicles for a potential licence production of the ASCOD in Ukraine, after having visited the production facilities in Spain and tested the ASCOD.{{Cite web |date=2023-12-21 |title=Ukrainian Armoured Equipment company plans to deploy licenced production of Western infantry fighting vehicles |url=https://www.yahoo.com/news/ukrainian-armoured-equipment-company-plans-101529058.html |access-date=2024-06-26 |website=Yahoo News |language=en-US}}

; {{flag|United States}}

: A separate program to MPF, the US Army is looking for a successor to the M2 / M3 Bradley. The program for its replacement is the XM30 Mechanized Infantry Combat Vehicle. The Griffin platform from General Dynamics was selected as one of 2 finalists, against the KF-41 Lynx of Rheinmetall. The Pentagon signed a contract for the detailed design of both vehicles, expecting the manufacturing of 7 to 11 prototypes to start in 2025 for the trials. The winner will be chosen in 2027, and would be expected to enter service in 2029. The procurement is expected to reach $45 billion.{{Cite web |date=2023-07-05 |title=Two Rivals Are Battling to (Finally) Replace the Army's Bradley Fighting Vehicle |url=https://www.popularmechanics.com/military/weapons/a44402209/us-army-bradley-fighting-vehicle-replacement-competition/ |access-date=2023-11-21 |website=Popular Mechanics |language=en-US}}

; {{flag|Czech Republic}}

: General Dynamics European Land Systems offered the ASCOD to replace aging BMP-2s. GDELS announced in May 2017 that it had formed partnerships with 5 Czech companies to underpin its bid.{{cite web|last1=Anderson |first1=Guy |title=GD forms Czech partnerships to meet IFV requirement |url=http://www.janes.com/article/71050/ |website=IHS Jane's 360 |accessdate=2 June 2017 |archiveurl=https://archive.today/20170602222717/http://www.janes.com/article/71050/gd-forms-czech-partnerships-to-meet-ifv-requirement |archivedate=2 June 2017 |date=1 June 2017 |url-status=dead }}{{cite web|title=General Dynamics European Land Systems - IDET |url=http://www.bvv.cz/en/idet/news2/general-dynamics-european-land-systems/ |website=BVV Trade Fairs Brno |accessdate=2 June 2017 |archiveurl=https://archive.today/20170602222828/http://www.bvv.cz/en/idet/news2/general-dynamics-european-land-systems/ |archivedate=2 June 2017 |location=Brno |url-status=dead }} In December 2018, ASCOD was shortlisted together with the Puma, CV90 and Lynx.{{cite web |title=Czech Republic; Four firms shortlisted in BVP armoured vehicle tender |url=http://dmilt.com/europe/czech-republic-four-firms-shortlisted-in-bvp-armoured-vehicle-tender |website=Defense Market Intelligence |accessdate=19 December 2018 |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20181219132209/http://dmilt.com/europe/czech-republic-four-firms-shortlisted-in-bvp-armoured-vehicle-tender |archivedate=19 December 2018 |date=19 December 2018 |url-status=dead |df=dmy-all }} In July 2022, the Czech Government began negotiations with the Swedish Government for the procurement of CV90MkIV infantry fighting vehicles. The negotiations for the new infantry fighting vehicles will be coordinated with Slovakia who had also recently selected the CV90 MkIV.{{Cite web |title=Defence Minister authorised to negotiate procurement of CV90 vehicles, F-35 fighters {{!}} Ministry of Defence & Armed Forces of the Czech Republic |url=https://www.army.cz/en/ministry-of-defence/newsroom/news/the-government-of-the-czech-republic-authorised-the-defence-minister-to-negotiate-the-acquisition-of-swedish-cv90-infantry-fighting-vehicles-and-the-a-237515/ |access-date=2022-07-20 |website=www.army.cz}}{{Cite web |title=Czech IFV replacement contract delayed another year |url=https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/czech-ifv-replacement-contract-delayed-another-year |access-date=2022-07-20 |website=Janes.com |date=11 February 2022 |language=en}}

; {{flag|Denmark}}

: In 2014 the Royal Danish Army trialled the G5 as a replacement for is ageing fleet of M113-based vehicles, in a competition against the Nexter VBCI 8x8, BAE Systems-Hägglunds CV90 Armadillo, General Dynamics European Land Systems(GDELS) Santa Bárbara Sistemas ASCOD 2 and the GDELS-Mowag Piranha 5s 8x8. In May 2015 the Danish Defence Acquisition and Logistic Organisation announced the Piranha 5s as the successful candidate.{{cite web |author=Robert Czulda |date=18 May 2017 |title=FIRST SERIAL PIRANHA 5 HANDED OVER TO DENMARK |url=https://www.monch.com/mpg/news/land/1481-dk-piranha5.html |access-date=28 March 2022 |publisher=Mönch Publishing Group}}

{{Div col|colwidth=25em}}

• {{lwc|General Dynamics Ajax|Ajax}}
• {{lwc|General Dynamics Griffin|Griffin}}
• {{lwc|M2 Bradley}}
• {{lwc|CV-90}}
• {{lwc|WPB Anders}}
• {{lwc|Puma (IFV)}}
• {{lwc|Dardo IFV}}
• {{lwc|BVP M-80}}
• {{lwc|ELVO Kentaurus}}
• {{lwc|Tulpar (IFV)}}
• {{lwc|Bionix AFV}}
• {{lwc|K21}}
• {{lwc|Mitsubishi Type 89 IFV|Type 89 IFV}}
• {{lwc|BMP-3}}
• {{lwc|Lynx (Rheinmetall armoured fighting vehicle)|Lynx KF31/KF41}}
• {{lwc|Warrior tracked armoured vehicle}}
• {{lwc|M8 Armored Gun System}}
• {{lwc|T-15 Armata}}

{{Div col end}}

• List of armoured fighting vehicles by country

{{reflist}}

• [https://web.archive.org/web/20150116021349/http://www.gdels.com/products/tracked_2.asp General Dynamics European Land Systems - ASCOD AFV]
• [http://www.armyrecognition.com/europe/Espagne/vehicules_legers/ASCOD_Pizarro/Pizarro_Espagne_description.htm Technical data sheet and pictures Spanish Pizarro from ArmyRecognition.com]
• [http://www.doppeladler.com/oebh/kette/ulan.htm The Ulan (ASCOD) in the Austrian Armed Forces - technical data and pictures]
• [http://www.mde.es Spain's Ministry of Defence]
• [https://web.archive.org/web/20090313094459/http://www.revistanaval.com/blimdanet/historias/articulo/articulo.htm ¿INFANTERÍA MECANIZADA?]

{{DEFAULTSORT:ASCOD AFV}}

Category:Tracked reconnaissance vehicles

Category:Tracked armoured fighting vehicles

Category:Armoured fighting vehicles of Spain

Category:Armoured fighting vehicles of Austria

Category:Armoured fighting vehicles of the post–Cold War period

Category:General Dynamics land vehicles

Category:Military vehicles introduced in the 2000s

Category:Infantry fighting vehicles of the post–Cold War period