The Latvian Army will receive 56 additional Patria 6×6 tanks

As part of the Common Armored Vehicle System (CAVS) program, the Latvian Ministry of Defense and Patria have signed an agreement for the production and supply of 56 Patria 6×6 armoured vehicles, specifically configured for command and control (C2) operations. This new contract complements the current supply using local industrial resources in Latvia, including the Patria armoured vehicle manufacturing plant in Valmiera, which opened in May 2024. Initial deliveries are planned to begin this year, with deliveries continuing through 2029, for a total value of over 60 million euros.

Patria 6×6 — is a universal armored vehicle developed as part of the multinational CAVS program, which includes Finland, Sweden, Latvia and Germany. This vehicle is 7.6 meters long (expandable to 8.2 meters), 2.5 meters high and 2.9 meters wide to meet the high demands of today's operations. Powered by a 294 kW Scania 5-cylinder diesel engine (upgradable to 325 kW) with a maximum torque of 1,910 Nm, the Patria 6×6 is equipped with a ZF 7-speed automatic transmission and optimized all-wheel drive. Complemented by Run-Flat tires and a Central Tire Inflation System (CTIS), its independent suspension system with hydropneumatic elements ensures adaptability and driving comfort on a variety of terrains. With a payload capacity of 8,500 kg and a combat weight of 24,000 kg, the vehicle can reach a speed of over 100 km/h, overcome 60% of slopes and can cross water up to 1.5 meters deep, offering valuable mobility for the armed forces.

The Patria 6×6 is built with a modular defense system against ballistic threats, mines and improvised explosive devices (IEDs) that adapts to specific customer needs. It can carry up to 10 fully equipped soldiers and can integrate a variety of weapons and communications systems, increasing operational versatility. The additional swimming function allows you to move on water at a speed of 6 to 8 km/h, supporting deployment in a variety of combat conditions. Its design incorporates advanced technology, including maintenance-free LED headlights and hydraulic power steering. Under the CAVS program, Patria plans to produce about 30 cars a year, and Latvia expects to deliver 25 units this year.

These new command and control vehicles are expected to significantly increase the operational capabilities of the Latvian armed forces, while strengthening the national defense industry. Andris Spruds, Minister of Defense of Latvia, emphasized the importance of this acquisition, noting that the new Patria 6×6 control vehicles will increase operational capabilities and contribute to Latvia's military industry. This continuous collaboration between the defense sector and industry has proven successful.

Patria expressed its satisfaction with the expansion of the CAVS program with this new variant of the armored vehicle and with Latvia as the first customer of this particular configuration. Mats Warstedt, Patria's senior vice president for Nordic countries, emphasized the benefits of close cooperation between Patria, Latvia and other CAVS member countries, citing efficient and cost-effective research and development processes that ensure fast production and delivery.

The international CAVS program, which currently includes Finland, Latvia, Sweden and Germany, was launched through a research and development agreement at the end of 2020. Deliveries to Latvia, Finland and Sweden began during the first three years of the program. CAVS remains open to other European countries with similar equipment needs subject to approval by existing member states. Latvia's defense industry is being strengthened by close cooperation with Patria, which manages the development of armored vehicle systems 6×6 with more than 40 years of experience in the field of armored vehicle transport and system integration.

The majority of vehicles in the program are manufactured from using the local industrial capabilities of the participating countries, which ensures the security of the supply chain within the framework of the partnership. To date, Patria has received orders for more than 750 Patria 6×6 vehicles, confirming the success of this joint program.