Patria Armored Personnel Carriers: Latvia Supports Ukraine
Latvia has made a significant commitment to bolster the Ukrainian Armed Forces by procuring Patria 6×6 armored personnel carriers. This initiative reflects Riga’s steadfast support for Kyiv as it faces ongoing military aggression from Russia. The delivery of these armored vehicles is set to commence later this year, although the exact quantity has not yet been disclosed.
Latvian Defense Minister Andris Sprūds commented on the acquisition, highlighting that this move not only aids Ukraine in defending against its occupiers but will also provide valuable insights into the operational effectiveness of these vehicles in real combat situations. This information will be instrumental for Latvia’s own National Armed Forces as they seek to enhance their military capabilities.
Financial Commitments and Local Production
Currently, Latvia is involved in a substantial project valued at approximately 60 million euros ($61.9 million), which aims to supply an additional 56 Patria armored personnel carriers to its own military. This acquisition is part of a larger strategy to procure a total of around 200 of these 6×6 platforms by the year 2029.
In a move to strengthen local manufacturing capabilities, Riga inaugurated a new factory in Valmiera in May 2024. This facility is designed to accelerate the production of troop carrier systems and will also support collaborative programs with allies, including Germany, Finland, and Sweden, further enhancing the Baltic state’s defense infrastructure.
Specifications of the Patria Armored Vehicle
The Patria 6×6 armored personnel carrier is an impressive piece of machinery, measuring 8 meters (26 feet) in length and capable of weighing up to 24,000 kilograms (52,911 pounds), depending on its configuration. It is designed to accommodate a crew of three—comprising a driver, commander, and gunner—while also having the capacity to transport up to 10 additional passengers.
Equipped with NATO standard armor, the chassis offers enhanced protection against various threats, including kinetic projectiles, shrapnel, and explosive blasts. The vehicle is powered by a robust 390-horsepower Scania diesel engine, featuring a seven-gear forward transmission that enables it to reach a maximum speed of 100 kilometers (62 miles) per hour and a range exceeding 700 kilometers (435 miles).
