Finland awaits arrival of XA-300 APCs following deliveries to Ukraine.

The Finnish Army is preparing to acquire XA-300 Armored Personnel Carriers (APCs), following the supply of military equipment to the Ukrainian Armed Forces. In the wake of the Russo-Ukrainian conflict, Finland, aligning with NATO, has provided Ukraine with Patria Pasi XA-180/185 APCs.
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Patria XA-300 APC Armored Personnel Carrier (Picture source:  Patria)

In June of this year, the Finnish Ministry of Defense purchased 91 XA-300 units with an option for an additional 70, bringing the total order value to 208 million euros. The first units are expected to be delivered within the year. Finnish officers, who will be training new recruits in the use of these vehicles, have already been familiarized with them.

The XA-300s are intended to replace the entire fleet of XA-180/185s currently used by the Finnish Army, indicating a potential purchase of over 550 APCs. The older armored vehicles are reported to be deployed on the Ukrainian front.

The XA-300 is an APC developed by Patria, a Finnish defense company. This vehicle represents a significant advancement in Finland's range of armored vehicles, succeeding the Sisu Pasi XA-180/185/200 series. Its development is part of Finland's effort to modernize and strengthen its fleet of armored vehicles.

The genesis of the XA-300 lies in the desire to integrate the best features of previous models while incorporating more advanced technologies. This APC is designed based on the XA-200, with elements borrowed from the Patria AMV 8x8, another highly regarded armored vehicle known for its versatility and robustness. This fusion of designs aims to offer a versatile platform, capable of adapting to various combat scenarios and operational environments.

Its 6x6 design provides mobility and good agility. Powered by a 400-horsepower Scania AB DC 09 diesel engine, it can reach speeds exceeding 100 km/h. Weighing approximately 24 tons, the XA-300 combines speed and resilience, essential in dynamic combat situations.

In terms of protection, the XA-300 offers solid armor compliant with STANAG 4569 standards, providing resistance to various calibers of bullets. Its ability to withstand 7.62x39 mm bullets at 30 meters and 14.5x114 mm bullets at 200 meters makes it an ideal choice for combat operations where soldier protection is paramount. Its modularity also allows it to be adapted to specific mission needs, possibly equipping the vehicle with various weapon systems. It can accommodate remotely controlled combat modules or manned turrets, equipped with heavy machine guns, grenade launchers, or automatic cannons of different calibers.

Finland thus awaits the arrival of its new XA-300 armored personnel carriers by the end of 2023, and an official announcement is expected in due course.