Finnish companies Patria and Valmet Automotive have announced a partnership to facilitate technology transfer for the production of Patria’s armored vehicles, along with the manufacture of an initial batch. Although the financial specifics of this arrangement have not been revealed, the collaboration marks a significant move in expanding production capabilities.
The first batch of vehicles is set to be constructed at Valmet Automotive’s facility in Uusikaupunki, located in southwest Finland, with operations expected to commence in the second half of 2026. Jussi Järvinen, Executive Vice President of Patria’s Protected Mobility business area, emphasized the importance of this partnership, stating, “While Patria’s production is at a very good level for delivering all existing and anticipated orders, we are nevertheless seeking additional capacity, especially for future demand.” He also highlighted that technology transfer aligns with Patria’s business model and this venture represents a crucial initial step in collaboration with Valmet Automotive.
Valmet Automotive, known for its contract manufacturing services, builds vehicles and specialized automotive systems for numerous prominent brands, including previous collaborations with Saab. This new partnership is an extension of a Letter of Intent signed by the two companies last October, which laid the groundwork for exploration into armored vehicle production and testing.
The timing of the agreement coincides with an ongoing expansion of Patria’s armored vehicle programs throughout Europe. In recent developments, Sweden has placed an order for 94 additional Patria 6×6 vehicles, increasing its total to 321 units under a contract signed in March 2024. This new order, valued at approximately 1.5 billion Swedish krona ($160 million), elevates Sweden’s total fleet to 415 vehicles, which are expected to be delivered between 2025 and 2030.
Additionally, in a significant gesture of international support, Latvia has completed the handover of 21 domestically produced Patria 6×6 armored personnel carriers (APCs) to Ukraine, as part of a larger commitment to supply a total of 42 vehicles. Denmark has also selected Patria to deliver 129 CAVS 6×6 platforms earlier this year.
The collaboration between Patria and Valmet Automotive not only reinforces Finland’s defense capabilities but also highlights the growing demand for armored vehicles in the European market.
