Collaboration Announcement for ASCOD Vehicle Assembly in Latvia
Patria and GDELS-Santa Barbara Sistemas have forged a strategic partnership to assemble and maintain ASCOD infantry fighting vehicles at Patria’s operational facility in Latvia. This collaboration marks a significant milestone coinciding with the fifth anniversary of Patria’s presence in Latvia and the first anniversary of the Defence Partnership Latvia (DPL) armored vehicle production facility located in Valmiera. The DPL is a joint initiative between Patria and the Latvian company Unitruck.
The assembly line is expected to produce the first units of GDELS vehicles by June 2026. This facility is already engaged in the production of the PATRIA 6×6 armored personnel carriers. Uģis Romanovs, Chairman of the Board at Patria Latvia and DPL, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, stating that “the assembly and servicing of ASCOD infantry fighting vehicles signify a substantial enhancement in our military manufacturing capabilities, including maintenance, repair, and overhaul services in Latvia.”
Significant Procurement by Latvian Ministry of Defense
Recently, the Latvian Ministry of Defense placed a significant order for 42 ASCOD vehicles, valued at 373 million euros (approximately $423 million). The procurement process, which began in early 2023, involved selecting potential suppliers and conducting thorough functional testing of various platforms during the autumn of 2023.
The ASCOD vehicle is designed with advanced NATO STANAG 4569 level four armor, providing robust protection against kinetic threats and mine blasts. The vehicle is equipped to accommodate a crew of three while also providing space for six soldiers outfitted with full combat gear. In terms of armament, the ASCOD is armed with an autocannon, anti-tank weaponry, machine guns, and cutting-edge technologies that enhance battlefield situational awareness.
