Latvia Prepares First Delivery of Brand-New Patria APCs to Ukraine

The Latvian government has approved the transfer of 42 Patria 6×6 armored personnel carriers and other military equipment to Ukraine.

The Latvian Ministry of Defense reported that the armored vehicles destined for Ukraine were ordered earlier this year.

Latvian Defense Minister Andris Sprūds stated that the first vehicles will be shipped very soon.

“We will continue to support Ukraine, both this year and next. We will provide military aid amounting to 0.25% of our GDP,” he emphasized.

Separately, the Latvian Ministry of Defense stressed that the delivery of 42 armored personnel carriers will not affect the needs or operational capabilities of the Latvian National Armed Forces.

Back in early February, the Ukrainian ambassador to Latvia was shown the production of the first batch of Patria 6×6 armored personnel carriers intended for Ukraine.

Patria’s manufacturing facilities in Latvia have the capacity to produce around 30 combat vehicles per year. At the same time, the factory is already fully engaged in fulfilling contracts for the Latvian National Armed Forces.

This modern multipurpose armored personnel carrier with a 6×6 wheel configuration was developed by the Finnish company Patria.

Thanks to its powerful engine and independent suspension on each wheel, the APC can navigate rough terrain, cross water obstacles, and travel at high speeds on highways.

The combat vehicle can reach speeds of up to 100 km/h on roads and has a range of up to 700 km.

Crew protection is provided by modern armor that meets STANAG 4569 standards and can withstand small arms fire, shell fragments, and mine blasts. Additionally, the armored personnel carrier can be equipped with extra applique armor.

The Patria 6×6 features a spacious troop compartment that can accommodate up to 10 soldiers. Thanks to its flexible modular design, the vehicle can be outfitted with various types of weaponry, including 12.7 mm machine guns, grenade launchers, or combat modules with heavy armament.