Patria and GDELS-Santa Barbara Sistemas have announced an important collaboration focusing on the assembly and maintenance of ASCOD infantry fighting vehicles at Patria’s facility in Latvia. This partnership signifies the fifth anniversary of Patria’s presence in Latvia and coincides with the first anniversary of the Defence Partnership Latvia (DPL) armored vehicle production facility located in Valmiera.
The DPL is a joint venture between Patria and the Latvian company Unitruck. The first production units of the GDELS vehicles are anticipated to be ready in June 2026, complementing the facility’s current production of PATRIA 6×6 armored personnel carriers.
Uģis Romanovs, chairman of the board at Patria Latvia and DPL, emphasized the importance of this venture, stating that the assembly and servicing of ASCOD infantry fighting vehicles represent a substantial advancement in the development of military manufacturing and maintenance capabilities in Latvia. He noted that their existing experience in producing 6×6 armored vehicles, along with the technology transfer from Patria, showcases their capacity to manage intricate and precise tasks in military vehicle manufacturing, assembly, and maintenance.
In January, the Latvian Ministry of Defense placed an order for 42 ASCODs worth 373 million euros ($423 million). The procurement process began earlier in 2023, involving the selection of potential suppliers and conducting functional tests of various platforms in autumn.
The ASCOD infantry fighting vehicle is designed to meet NATO STANAG 4569 level four armor standards, providing robust protection against kinetic threats and mine blasts. It is operated by a crew of three and can carry an additional six soldiers equipped for combat. The vehicle is equipped with various armaments, including an autocannon, anti-tank weapons, and machine guns, along with advanced technologies to enhance battlefield situational awareness.
