Germany and Patria Forge New Path in Armoured Vehicle Development
Germany has officially entered into a research and development agreement with Finnish defense contractor Patria, focusing on the Common Armoured Vehicle System (CAVS). This agreement specifically targets the NEMO mortar variant and CAVS mortar command & control systems tailored for the German Armed Forces. Valued at €50 million (approximately $51 million), the contract encompasses the integration of these advanced platforms with existing German mission systems, ensuring they meet specific operational requirements.
Patria’s Executive Vice President, Jukka Holkeri, expressed enthusiasm for this pivotal agreement, highlighting its significance as the first national CAVS variants development initiative. He noted that the introduction of a 120 mm turreted mortar variant brings new capabilities to the CAVS program, which is likely to attract interest from other participating nations.
Collaboration with German Industry
The development and qualification of the new CAVS variants will involve close collaboration with German industry partners. Future serial production is expected to take place alongside previously announced industrial collaborators including KNDS, FFG, and JWT. This collaborative approach aims to enhance the effectiveness and reliability of the new systems.
The CAVS NEMO system is a notable innovation, merging Patria’s 6×6 armored vehicle with the NEMO 120 mm turreted mortar. This remote-controlled turret is capable of launching six grenades simultaneously, providing both indirect fire support and self-defense capabilities. Its lightweight and modular design ensure compatibility with various platforms, including both 6×6 and 8×8 vehicles.
Financial Backing for the Initiative
The German parliament’s budget committee has approved an initial funding allocation of €25 million ($25.56 million) for this agreement, with expectations for the total amount to receive full approval. This funding is designated for developing prototypes of two mortar carriers and a command vehicle as part of the Future Indirect Fire Short-Range System initiative.
The new mortar systems are set to replace the existing 120 mm mortars currently utilized by the German Army’s infantry units, while also being deployed within grenadier units, enhancing the operational capabilities of these forces.
Partnerships and Production Plans
Patria will collaborate on this development with ESG Elektroniksystem- und Logistik-GmbH, based in Fürstenfeldbruck, further strengthening ties within the defense sector. This partnership aims to leverage technological advancements and local expertise to create a robust mortar system.
In a significant move, Germany signed the CAVS framework agreement recently, officially joining a multinational program alongside Finland, Latvia, and Sweden. This agreement enables Germany to initiate serial procurement of CAVS vehicles based on Patria’s 6×6 platforms, marking a strategic expansion in its armored vehicle capabilities.
Timeline of Agreements
Germany’s commitment to the CAVS program began with a statement of intent in 2022, followed by a technical arrangement in 2023. The recent signing of the research and development agreement, along with the framework agreement, in late 2024 marks a critical milestone in this collaborative effort.
Additionally, Germany has extended an invitation to Patria to submit a binding offer for the replacement of 300 aging Fuchs personnel carriers, indicating a broader strategy to upgrade its military fleet and enhance its operational readiness.
