General Dynamics European Land Systems (GDELS) has entered into a partnership with Patria Latvia to provide maintenance and repair services for the M3 amphibious pontoon bridge systems. The project will take place in Valmiera, located in the northeastern region of Latvia. A delegation from Patria Latvia recently visited the GDELS facilities to assess the project’s requirements and framework.
Currently, Latvia’s National Armed Forces operate four M3 units, all of which are funded through a grant program from the US government. Alejandro Page, VP of GDELS Santa Bárbara Sistemas, highlighted that the M3 systems will enhance the ongoing collaboration between GDELS and Latvia, particularly in the assembly and servicing of ASCOD vehicles. He emphasized that this integration will bolster the security of the supply chain that GDELS is cultivating within the region and will serve as a significant asset within Latvia’s defense industry.
The M3 amphibious system is designed to allow armored vehicles to traverse water obstacles, functioning either as a self-propelled ferry or as part of a mobile pontoon bridge. This versatile system can be utilized in various contexts, from military operations to civil defense tasks. Each unit measures 12.8 meters (42 feet) in length, stands nearly 4 meters (13 feet) tall, and weighs approximately 28 metric tons (62,000 pounds). It is capable of carrying over 120 metric tons (265,000 pounds) and is operated by a crew of two or three personnel. With its innovative propulsion technology, which includes two 360-degree rotatable water pump jets, the M3 system can deploy a 100-meter (328-foot) bridge in less than 10 minutes.
In light of the escalating tensions due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, Latvia has intensified its defense measures, particularly given its border with Russia. In June, the Latvian government approved the procurement of 42 ASCOD infantry fighting vehicles from GDELS, a transaction valued at $446 million. This acquisition aims to equip an additional battalion and accelerate the development of Latvia’s mechanized infantry brigade. The collaboration with GDELS and Patria exemplifies Latvia’s commitment to strengthening its military capacity, with local company Unitruck also participating in the assembly and maintenance of the ASCOD vehicles.
