The Finnish Defence Forces (FDF) Logistics Command has ordered 91 Patria 6×6 armoured vehicles as a part of the multinational Finland-led Common Armoured Vehicle Systems (CAVS) programme that also features Latvia, Sweden, and Germany, Patria announced on 2 June 2023.
The contract includes spare parts, tools, operation and maintenance training, as well as a purchase option for 70 vehicles. Deliveries of the Patria 6×6s will begin during 2023.
In 2022 the FDF acquired three pre-series vehicles that were used for testing prior to a serial order being made. During the test phase FDF personnel had the opportunity to familiarise themselves with the different features and operational use of Patria 6×6 vehicles, as well as to define the final requirements for the volume contract.
“Finland’s serial order is a remarkable milestone for the entire CAVS programme,” Jussi Järvinen, Executive Vice President of Patria’s Finland Division, was quoted as saying in a company press release. “Patria 6×6 armoured vehicles are already being manufactured in Hämeenlinna, Finland, for three countries. This serial order is the largest vehicle agreement between Patria and the Finnish Defence Forces in many decades.
“In Finland Patria 6×6 vehicles continue in the footsteps of XA-series vehicles, better known as Pasi, as we continue to develop the performance and mobility of the Finnish Army at least until the 2060s, or even longer,” Järvinen added.
Under the multinational CAVS programme Sweden ordered its first 20 vehicles in April 2023 and deliveries to Latvia have been underway since 2021, while Germany joined the programme in April 2023.
Peter Felstead
