On August 15, 2025, Paraguay’s Ministry of Defense confirmed the donation of 20 EE-11 Urutu armored personnel carriers from Brazil, boosting Paraguay’s armored fleet from 12 to 32 vehicles. The move represents both a modernization effort for Paraguay’s ground forces and an extension of Brazil’s defense diplomacy strategy in South America.
Developed in the 1970s by Brazilian company Engesa, the Urutu became the backbone of Brazil’s armored vehicle fleet for decades, with over 1,500 units produced and exported to countries such as Venezuela, Ecuador, and Colombia. Amphibious and capable of carrying 12 troops, the vehicle originally mounted a 12.7 mm machine gun. Under the modernization program funded by Paraguay, the Urutus will receive upgraded armor, reinforced suspension, refurbished transmissions, and night vision systems, ensuring their continued relevance on the battlefield.
While less advanced than modern armored personnel carriers, the Urutu remains attractive for nations like Paraguay thanks to its low cost, durability, and proven track record. Much like the U.S. M113, it continues to serve effectively through incremental upgrades rather than costly replacements.
For Paraguay, the vehicles enhance mobility in critical areas such as the Triple Frontier, a region plagued by cross-border crime and smuggling. For Brazil, the donation symbolizes more than hardware—it represents a transfer of doctrine and operational experience, reinforcing defense partnerships.
This modernization marks Paraguay’s most significant military renewal program since 2012, complementing other acquisitions such as U.S.-supplied M-ATVs and A-29 Super Tucano aircraft from Embraer. By extending the Urutu’s service life by at least another decade, Paraguay strengthens its defense capacity while Brazil consolidates its role as a leading driver of regional security cooperation.
