Finnish defense contractor Patria has announced that it signed with Finland and Latvia agreement on developing common armoured vehicle system.
The purpose of the product development agreement is to develop, in line with the common requirements of the countries, the prototype Patria 6×6 vehicle manufactured by Patria Land Oy to a common armoured vehicle platform, with an armoured personnel carrier and a command and control vehicle. The agreement makes it possible to build a comprehensive approach to develop common maintenance, logistics, training solutions or product development packages.
The purpose of the R&D agreement is to develop a common armoured vehicle system, based on the Patria 6×6 vehicle and developed to meet the common requirements of the countries. The agreement also allows for the development of other new vehicle variants and system features later.
The joint Finnish-Latvian research and development organization will direct and supervise development work, in which Finland will act as the leading country.
“This is an excellent opportunity for us, and we are confident that this program will be beneficial for all parties. This is a unique multinational co-operation which is built on identified common benefits over the full lifetime of the system. Patria is proud of being able to provide our expertise in the joint development programs into use of this program. The participating countries will seek for a very cost-effective solution that will certainly be of interest to other countries as well who are keen on enhancing their army mobility”, states Jussi Järvinen, President of Patria’s Land business unit.
Patria launched its 6×6 vehicle at Eurosatory in 2018. The Patria 6×6 vehicle combines all the proven features of Patria’s XA and AMV vehicles. It is simplified, reliable and designed to meet the highest requirements of customers. Its state-of-the-art terrain mobility is guaranteed by an efficient power unit and the independent suspension familiar from the Patria’s AMV vehicle. Due to the spacious cabin and well-defined functions, the vehicle is easy to operate and to train. Reliability and low life cycle costs are underlined by the multitude of commercial components used in the vehicle.
The key areas of Patria’s Land business unit are armoured wheeled vehicles, mortar systems and related lifecycle support services. Business unit employs 230 people in Hämeenlinna and Tampere.
The total value of the product development agreement is approximately EUR 7.3 million ($8,55 million) including VAT, and it comprises the common platform and the product development of an armoured personnel carrier and a command and control vehicle. Costs shall be shared equally between Finland and Latvia.