Latvia to Transfer Patria Armored Vehicles to Ukraine in 2025.

As part of its military support to Ukraine, Latvia plans to deliver a batch of Patria armored vehicles in 2025. This decision is in line with European countries' ongoing efforts to strengthen Ukraine's defense against the Russian invasion. Latvian Prime Minister Evika Siliņa recently confirmed this assistance during her visit to Kyiv in September 2024. This delivery is part of a military aid package valued at 40 million euros.
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The Patria AMV is a Finnish armored vehicle known for its high modularity. (Picture source: US DoD)

The Latvian government has not yet specified the exact number of Patria armored vehicles to be sent. In addition to this delivery, Latvia also plans to train approximately 4,000 Ukrainian soldiers in 2025, while providing drones and other essential military equipment for the battlefield. This ambitious program reflects the country’s long-term commitment to supporting Ukraine, especially since Latvia has pledged to allocate 0.25% of its GDP per year for military aid to Ukraine, amounting to roughly 100 million euros annually.

The Patria AMV (Armored Modular Vehicle) is a Finnish armored vehicle known for its high modularity. Used by several armies worldwide, it can be configured for various missions such as troop transport, reconnaissance, fire support, and medical evacuation. The Patria can carry between 8 and 12 fully equipped soldiers, and its modern armor provides effective protection against mines, improvised explosive devices (IEDs), and small arms fire.

This armored vehicle is 7.7 meters long, 2.8 meters wide, and 2.3 meters high, with a combat weight ranging from 16 to 32 tons depending on the version. The AMV XP model, for example, can support up to 15 tons of payload, allowing for the integration of various weapon systems or equipment depending on tactical needs.

The Patria AMV is renowned for its enhanced protection. Its modular armor can be upgraded to reach level 4 of the STANAG 4569 standard, providing resistance against 30mm armor-piercing shells on the front. It is also equipped with protection systems against anti-tank mines and IEDs, capable of withstanding a 10kg explosive charge beneath its hull.

In terms of mobility, the Patria AMV is powered by a Scania diesel engine, with power ranging from 480 to 543 horsepower depending on the version. This engine, coupled with a hydropneumatic suspension, allows it to reach a top speed of 100 km/h on roads and cover a distance of 600 to 800 km without refueling. This range and its ability to operate in difficult terrains make it a highly sought-after vehicle for various operations in hostile environments.

Since the start of the Russian invasion, Latvia has intensified its military support to Ukraine. In addition to the Patria armored vehicles, the country has committed to providing drones and survival equipment, such as clothing and night vision systems. In August 2024, the Latvian government had already supplied 1,400 drones to Ukrainian forces, highlighting its crucial role in the technological war against Russia.

Latvia's commitment to supporting Ukraine extends to humanitarian contributions, particularly for Ukrainian civilians affected by the conflict. The Latvian government has also made efforts to support disaster-stricken areas such as the Chernihiv Oblast, providing generators and solar panels.

The delivery of Patria vehicles in 2025 is part of this long-term support strategy, aimed at strengthening Ukraine’s defense capabilities against Russian aggression, while underscoring the unwavering commitment of the Baltic states to regional security.