Slovakia and Finland to buy 76 Patria AMVxp 8x8 armored combat vehicles.

Slovakia and Finland with Patria have signed a comprehensive government-to-government (G2G) agreement to purchase 76 armored combat vehicles (ACV) from Patria.
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IFV variant of the Patria AMVxp 8x8 armored combat vehicle (Picture source: Patria)

Within Slovakia’s BOV 8x8 programme, Patria will contribute to the development of the local engineering and defence industry with transferring high-end armored modular vehicle technical experience and innovations. Geographically, industrial cooperation covers Slovakia widely. The programme will create educational benefits and jobs that provide work for decades, including life cycle services that come after the project.

“Patria is proud to provide the most modern spearhead combat vehicle solution for Slovakian Land Forces. We’ve had intensive and productive negotiations with the Slovakian Ministry of Defence and the Slovakian industry. Together with Konštrukta Defence, EVPU and CSM, as well as with other local companies, we have created a long-term solution that provides Slovakia with sustainable security of supply. Additionally, this agreement provides Slovakia the possibility to continue stable acquisition of vehicle variants and related support of full lifecycle services under the same contract”, states Jukka Holkeri, Executive Vice President for Global Division in Patria.

In March 2022 the Slovakian Ministry of Defence selected Finland with Patria AMVxp 8x8 as BOV 8x8 programme tender winner. Patria AMVxp 8x8 came out on top after system tests and feasibility study evaluation. In the end of March, the Slovakian government announced approval for the Slovakian Ministry of Defence to start contract negotiations with Finland and Patria. The agreed purchase consists of 76 armored combat vehicles, with three vehicle variants.

Gun System variant of the Patria AMVxp 8x8 armored combat vehicle (Picture source: Patria)

Patria AMVxp is built on the success of Patria AMV in the 8x8 armored wheeled vehicles sector. The Patria AMV (Armored Modular Vehicle) is an 8×8 multi-role military vehicle. Its main feature is its modular design, which allows the incorporation of different turrets, weapons, sensors, or communications systems on the same carriage. Designs exist for different APC vehicles (armored personnel carrier) and IFV versions (infantry fighting vehicle), communications versions, ambulances and different fire support versions, armed with large caliber mortar and gun systems. The vehicle has a very good level of mine protection and can withstand explosions of up to 10 kilograms (22 lb) TNT. The AMV has protection levels up to 30 mm APFSDS frontal arc. Another important feature is the very good mobility (combining speed, agility, and crew comfort) in rough terrain, enabled by the sophisticated but rugged hydropneumatic suspension adjusting each wheel individually.

Patria AMVxp’s mobility is based on an upgraded powerline providing 450 kW engine power together with an Integrated Terrain Control System (ITCS). Patria AMVxp’s electrical power generation is measured to match even future requirements for C4I, Battlefield Management and Situational Awareness Systems. Health and Usage Monitoring System (HUMS) together with the vehicle’s digital backbone ensures soldiers to have the best possible platform to meet their objectives in every theatre of operation.