Breaking News
Ukraine to Receive Patria 6x6 Armored Vehicles from Latvia by Late 2025.
The Latvian Ministry of Defense has confirmed that it will provide Ukraine with an unspecified number of Patria 6x6 wheeled armored vehicles by the end of 2025. This announcement, made on February 10, 2025, marks the continuation of Latvia's unwavering support for Ukraine in its ongoing conflict with Russia. Latvia, one of Ukraine's strongest allies since the outbreak of the full-scale war, has committed to allocating 0.25% of its GDP annually for military aid to Ukraine.
The Patria 6x6 is a six-wheeled armored vehicle produced by the Finnish defense company Patria. (Picture source: Patria)
The Patria 6x6, a six-wheeled armored vehicle produced by the Finnish defense company Patria, is known for its versatility and robust design. Capable of transporting up to 10 soldiers, this vehicle can be easily adapted for a variety of roles, such as troop transport, mobile command posts, and medical evacuation. This adaptability makes the Patria 6x6 a valuable asset for Ukraine, which continues to strengthen its defense capabilities.
Latvia's commitment to deliver these vehicles is part of its Finnish-Latvian-Swedish-German defense cooperation program, which has already resulted in the procurement of more than 200 armored vehicles since the initial agreement in August 2021. The program also ensures that Latvia’s military needs will not be compromised, as the delivery of the Patria 6x6 vehicles to Ukraine will not affect the previously placed orders for the Latvian Armed Forces.
Latvian Defense Minister Andris Spruds emphasized that this initiative goes beyond supporting Ukraine's defense efforts. "We will not only support Ukraine in its struggle against the occupier, but we will also use this opportunity to test the use and durability of armored vehicles in real combat conditions, which will provide valuable lessons for the Latvian Armed Forces," said Spruds.
In early February 2025, Ukrainian Ambassador to Riga, Anatolii Kutsevo, visited Patria’s production facility in Valmiera, where he inspected the first batch of vehicles being produced. This visit underscores the growing cooperation between Latvia and Ukraine in the defense sector.
The Patria 6x6 is a wheeled armored vehicle designed by the Finnish company Patria. It is classified as an armored personnel carrier (APC) and was introduced into service in 2021. Used by several operators worldwide, this vehicle is distinguished by its high versatility and advanced technical features, making it suitable for a wide range of military missions.
The Patria 6x6 weighs between 15.5 and 24 tons, which allows it to provide impressive transport capacity while maintaining high mobility. It is 7.5 meters long, 2.9 meters wide, and 2.5 meters high, providing enough space for a crew of 2 to 3 members, with additional room for 8 to 10 passengers. The vehicle can be used for various tasks, including troop transport, setting up mobile command posts, and medical evacuation.
Regarding protection, the Patria 6x6 is equipped with armor that meets the STANAG 4569 standard, with a base protection level of K2, M2a/b, and the option to increase this to K4, M4a/b, based on operational needs. This armor provides strong protection against land-based threats and projectiles.
To ensure its mobility, the Patria 6x6 is powered by a Scania AB DC 09 diesel engine, delivering 294 kW (394 horsepower) and a torque of 1,870 N·m. This allows the vehicle to reach a maximum speed of over 100 km/h on flat terrain. Additionally, the vehicle is equipped with independent coil spring suspension, with an option for hydropneumatic suspension to provide increased comfort and stability on difficult terrain. Its payload capacity is 8.5 tons, enabling it to transport additional equipment and supplies.
With an operational range of 700 kilometers and the ability to travel at 8 km/h in water, the Patria 6x6 is well-suited for a wide range of tactical scenarios while offering robust performance both on land and in water. These features make the Patria 6x6 a preferred armored vehicle for many modern armies seeking a balance between mobility, protection, and versatility.
The delivery of the Patria 6x6 vehicles is expected to play a key role in strengthening Ukraine’s armored capabilities as it continues to defend its sovereignty. Latvia’s contribution highlights the importance of international defense cooperation in the face of current global security challenges.