The Finnish Defence Forces purchase Patria 6x6 armoured vehicles as a part of the multinational Finland-led CAVS (Common Armoured Vehicle Systems) programme that also features Latvia, Sweden, and Germany. Patria signed the agreement for 91 vehicles with the Finnish Defence Forces Logistics Command. In addition to the vehicles, the purchase also includes spare parts, tools as well as operation and maintenance training, in addition to a purchase option for 70 vehicles. Deliveries of the vehicles will begin during 2023.
In 2022, the Finnish Defence Forces acquired three pre-series vehicles which were in test use before the actual serial order. During the test phase, the Finnish Army had the opportunity to familiarise themselves with the different features and operational use of Patria 6x6 vehicles, as well as define the final requirements for the serial order vehicles.
“Finland's serial order is a remarkable milestone for the entire CAVS programme. With this order, Patria 6x6 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 6x6 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," says Jussi Järvinen, Executive Vice President of Patria’s Finland Division.
The multinational CAVS programme has proceeded as planned. Germany joined the programme recently and Sweden has ordered its first 20 vehicles. Deliveries to Latvia have been underway since 2021. The joint 6x6 vehicle programme has attracted interest and it is also open to other countries with the mutual consent of the participating countries.
