For the first time, the Albanian army will be outfitted with multi-functional light vehicles known as ‘LMV2’, manufactured by Iveco Defence Vehicles, the military branch of the Italian firm Iveco.
The acquisition of these military vehicles will be funded by the European Union via the European Peace Fund, with implementation managed by the Italian Agency for Defence Industries.
The Albanian Ministry of Defence announced that the European Union, through the European Peace Facility, which was established in March 2021 to enhance the defense capabilities of partner nations and bolster regional and global security, has provided Albania with two aid packages totaling 28 million euros.
The approved initiatives will aid in modernizing the Armed Forces of the Republic of Albania. The first aid package, approved in July 2024, includes the procurement of approximately 20 light armored vehicles at a cost of 13 million euros.
The second recently approved package, valued at 15 million euros, will supply the Armed Forces with multi-functional transport and engineering vehicles that can be utilized in both EU operations and in managing civil emergencies domestically and regionally. This entire process is overseen by EU structures from budgetary, procurement, and procedural angles.
This new assistance signifies the advancement of strategic relations between the EU and Albania, reinforced by the signing of the Security and Defence Partnership in December 2024 and the initiation of the first Security and Defence Dialogue in April 2025. It underscores Albania’s role as a reliable and stable partner to the EU in foreign and security matters, contributing to EU operations as well as being a NATO ally.
The initial vehicles are anticipated to arrive in Albania by 2026.
The LMV2 is the latest iteration of the successful LMV model, which is extensively used by NATO forces.
This version boasts enhanced ballistic and mine protection, a robust 220 horsepower engine with an 8-speed automatic transmission, along with improved suspension and wheel systems suitable for challenging terrains.
The modular cabin allows for versatile configurations, including troop transport, ambulance, or command center roles. Additionally, the LMV2 features modern communication, navigation, and battlefield management technologies, ensuring a blend of high mobility and advanced protection.
This model has been field-tested in international missions, including Afghanistan, and has replaced earlier LMV versions in several European nations such as Italy, the United Kingdom, and Norway. Its enhancements ensure better crew survivability and adaptability to various operational conditions.
For Albania, the LMV2 signifies a significant advancement in military capability modernization, particularly when compared to its current vehicle fleet, which includes American Humvees and a limited number of MRAP vehicles.
This development positions the country on par with its neighbors, North Macedonia and Montenegro, which have already invested in similar modern platforms.
Strategically, the introduction of LMV2 not only boosts the readiness and operational capabilities of the Armed Forces but also fortifies Albania’s partnerships with NATO, the EU, and Italy, thereby contributing to the security and stability of the Balkan region. (August 22)
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