Latvia to Partially Localize Spike Anti-Tank Systems Under €81M Contract

Latvia’s Ministry of Defense has signed an €81 million contract with German company EuroSpike to procure additional Spike anti-tank missile systems, with 30% of the work to be localized at Latvian defense enterprises.

The Ministry announced the deal in a press release, stating that the contract includes missile systems, ammunition, and supporting equipment.

“The Spike anti-tank missile systems have proven their effectiveness and fully meet the operational requirements of the National Armed Forces,” Defense Minister Andris Spruds stated. “To strengthen the combat capabilities of our regular forces and the National Guard, we will acquire additional systems to supplement our existing inventory.”

Deliveries are scheduled to begin in 2028. In line with Latvia’s Defense Industry and Innovation Support Strategy, the contract mandates 30% local industry participation.

While details on the number and versions of the systems were not disclosed, military analysis outlet Hartpunkt noted that Latvia has long operated Spike LR1 systems, which are no longer in production.

This suggests that the new contract will likely include the more advanced Spike LR2 version, potentially for both portable launchers and integration with new armored vehicles.

In January 2025, Latvia ordered 42 ASCOD infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs) as part of efforts to modernize its ground forces. The vehicles’ assembly and maintenance will take place at the Patria Defense Partnership Latvia (DPL) plant in Valmiera, which opened in May 2024.

The contract may also cover SPIKE NLOS guided missiles, which could be deployed on the planned Common Future Multipurpose Attack Craft (CFMAC) being jointly developed by Latvia and Lithuania.

Lithuania will acquire two CFMAC vessels equipped with SPIKE NLOS missiles and a combat module featuring a heavy machine gun within the agreement. The number of boats Latvia plans to procure has not been disclosed.