Latvia Starts Production of Patria 6×6 Armored Vehicles for Ukraine
Latvia has officially started producing Patria 6×6 armored personnel carriers (APCs) for Ukraine, as confirmed by the Embassy of Ukraine in Latvia on February 4, 2025. The first batch of these modern armored vehicles is currently being assembled at a defense facility in Valmiera. The production of Patria 6×6 APCs in Latvia is overseen by Defense Partnership Latvia, a joint venture between Patria and the Latvian company Unitruck. As part of this initiative, Ukrainian Ambassador Anatolii Kutsevol visited the facility to observe the production process.
The Valmiera facility, which opened in May 2024, can produce up to 30 vehicles per year and supports local armored hull manufacturing by EMJ Metāls SIA. The first Latvia-built Patria 6×6 APC was delivered to the Latvian Armed Forces on 5 Aug 2024.
Latvia has ordered over 200 Patria 6×6 vehicles under the Common Armoured Vehicle System (CAVS) program, with deliveries running from 2021 to 2029. The first four units arrived in October 2021, followed by ongoing deliveries, including a November 2024 order for 56 more vehicles. In September 2024, reports suggested that Latvia planned to send an unspecified number of Patria APCs to Ukraine in 2025 as part of a €40 million military aid package. This move strengthens Latvia’s defense support for Ukraine, reinforcing regional security.
The Patria 6×6 is a versatile armored personnel carrier (APC) designed for multiple roles, including troop transport and reconnaissance. It features a diesel engine and independent suspension, allowing it to navigate rough terrains with ease. The vehicle’s modular design supports the integration of various weapon systems, including remote-controlled turrets and heavy-caliber weapons like the NEMO 120mm mortar system. Under a November 2024 order, Latvia is also producing these vehicles in the command and staff variant to enhance battlefield coordination.
With a top speed of 100 km/h and an operational range of 700 km, the Patria 6×6 is built for long missions. Its armor meets STANAG 4569 protection standards, shielding troops from small arms fire, artillery fragments, and mines. The vehicle can carry up to 10 fully equipped soldiers, with customization options based on mission needs. Additionally, its modular armor system allows for different levels of protection, and an amphibious capability can be added for water operations. These features make the Patria 6×6 a powerful and adaptable APC, ready for modern military challenges.