Shtip, North Macedonia – August 15, 2025 – The Army of North Macedonia has received 29 new Oshkosh JLTV armored vehicles, officially presented at the Jane Sandanski barracks in Shtip.
The ceremony was attended by Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski, Minister of Defense Vlado Misajlovski, Chief of the General Staff Major General Sashko Lafchiski, and U.S. Ambassador Angela Aggeler.
With this delivery, the total number of JLTVs in service with the Army of North Macedonia rises to 67 units, significantly strengthening the country’s military capabilities.
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Prime Minister Mickoski emphasized that national security and stability are central priorities for his government:
“As Prime Minister, one of my main priorities has always been the security of the country, as well as the preservation of peace and stability. The Army of North Macedonia is the unbreakable link in these ambitions. Today we are showing yet another step toward modernization, and we will not stop here,” he said.
Defense Minister Vlado Misajlovski highlighted that cooperation with the United States has been crucial for strengthening the Armed Forces:
“With these 29 new JLTVs acquired through a government-to-government contract, our capabilities have practically doubled. We will soon also be receiving STRYKER armored vehicles, along with new systems and equipment already in the process of acquisition,” he explained.
Among the seven new contracts signed with the United States are projects for the supply of:
- Special Forces equipment;
- UAV (drone) systems;
- Cyber defense equipment;
- Infantry small arms;
- Individual protection kits;
- Integrated Fire Control system.
U.S. Ambassador Angela Aggeler reinforced the importance of the partnership:
“These light armored vehicles represent the embodiment of the United States’ continued support for North Macedonia and are a powerful symbol of its progress toward a modernized army, equipped and ready for today’s challenges.”
Next Steps
The JLTVs will be assigned to the Light Infantry Battalion Group, North Macedonia’s declared unit that may be deployed in international operations.
Source and images: Ministry of Defense of North Macedonia. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
