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Patria Strengthens Latvia's Defense Capabilities with Delivery of 56 Additional Armored Command Vehicles.
Under the Common Armored Vehicle System (CAVS) program, the Latvian Ministry of Defense and Patria have formalized an agreement for the production and delivery of 56 Patria 6x6 armored vehicles, configured specifically for command and control (C2) operations. This new contract adds to the ongoing deliveries, with production drawing on local industrial resources in Latvia, notably at Patria’s armored vehicle production facility in Valmiera, inaugurated in May 2024. The initial deliveries are scheduled to start this year, with continued deliveries planned through 2029, totaling over 60 million euros.
The Patria 6x6 is built with a modular protection system against ballistic threats, mines, and improvised explosive devices (IEDs), adaptable to specific client needs (Picture source: Patria)
The Patria 6x6 is a versatile armored vehicle developed as part of the multinational CAVS program, which includes Finland, Sweden, Latvia, and Germany. Measuring 7.6 meters in length (extendable to 8.2 meters), 2.5 meters in height, and 2.9 meters in width, this vehicle is designed to meet the demanding requirements of modern operations. Powered by a 5-cylinder Scania diesel engine, producing 294 kW (upgradable to 325 kW) with a peak torque of 1910 Nm, the Patria 6x6 is equipped with a ZF automatic transmission with 7 speeds and optimized all-wheel drive. Enhanced with run-flat tires and a central tire inflation system (CTIS), its independent suspension system with hydropneumatic elements ensures adaptability and driving comfort across diverse terrains. With a payload capacity of 8,500 kg and a combat weight of 24,000 kg, the vehicle reaches speeds over 100 km/h, tackles 60% slopes, and can ford up to 1.5 meters of water, offering valuable mobility for armed forces.
The Patria 6x6 is built with a modular protection system against ballistic threats, mines, and improvised explosive devices (IEDs), adaptable to specific client needs. It can transport up to 10 fully equipped soldiers and can integrate a variety of weapon and communication systems, enhancing operational versatility. An optional flotation feature enables water speeds of 6 to 8 km/h, supporting deployment in varied combat environments. Its design incorporates advanced technology, including maintenance-free LED lights and hydraulically assisted steering. Under the CAVS program, Patria plans to produce around 30 vehicles per year, with Latvia expecting delivery of 25 units this year.
These new command and control vehicles are anticipated to significantly boost the operational capabilities of Latvia’s armed forces, while strengthening the national defense industry. Andris Sprūds, Latvia’s Minister of Defense, emphasized the importance of this acquisition, noting that the new command and control Patria 6x6 vehicles will enhance operational capabilities and contribute to Latvia's military industry. This ongoing collaboration between the defense sector and industry has proven successful.
Patria expressed satisfaction with the expansion of the CAVS program with this new armored vehicle variant and Latvia as the first customer for this specific configuration. Mats Warstedt, Senior Vice President for the Nordics at Patria, highlighted the benefits of close cooperation between Patria, Latvia, and other CAVS member nations, citing efficient and cost-effective research and development processes that enable swift manufacturing and delivery.
The international CAVS program, which currently includes Finland, Latvia, Sweden, and Germany, launched with a research and development agreement in late 2020. Deliveries to Latvia, Finland, and Sweden have commenced within the first three years of the program. The CAVS remains open to other European nations with similar equipment needs, subject to approval by existing member states. Latvia’s defense industry is strengthened through close collaboration with Patria, which manages the development of the 6x6 armored vehicle systems with over 40 years of expertise in armored troop transport and system integration.
Most of the vehicles within the program are produced using local industrial capabilities of the member nations, ensuring supply chain security across the partnership. To date, Patria has received orders for over 750 Patria 6x6 vehicles, confirming the success of this collaborative program.
Patria is an international provider of support services, technology solutions, and training for the defense, security, and aviation sectors. Patria ensures the availability and performance of equipment for its aerospace and military clients, offering continuous performance development as well as management, surveillance, and intelligence system solutions. Patria’s mission is to instill confidence in all conditions, with the vision of being the primary partner for critical operations on land, sea, and air. Employing over 3,000 professionals, Patria has locations in several countries, including Finland, Sweden, Norway, Belgium, the Netherlands, Estonia, Latvia, and Spain. Patria is owned by the Finnish State (50.1%) and Norwegian Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace AS (49.9%), and also holds a 50% stake in Nammo, forming a leading Nordic defense partnership.