Patria and Babcock International Group have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to offer the Patria 6x6 vehicle platform to the UK armed forces. This strategic partnership aims to meet the operational requirements of the British Army while aligning with the UK MOD Land Industrial Strategy.
Under the agreement, Patria will oversee the design and development of the 6x6 platform, incorporating bespoke enhancements tailored to UK defense needs. Babcock, a proven system integrator and manufacturing specialist, will handle large-scale production and deliver a comprehensive support package to ensure the platform’s lifecycle readiness.
The Patria 6x6 vehicle is a modular, cost-effective, and high-performance solution designed to tackle diverse missions with superior mobility and modern protection. Currently, the 6x6 is produced under the multinational Common Armoured Vehicle System (CAVS) program, led by Finland and joined by Latvia, Sweden, and Germany. With over 800 orders, including more than 200 vehicles already delivered, the platform has proven its reliability in operational environments.The CAVS program fosters European collaboration, enabling member nations to jointly procure and integrate advanced platforms to address emerging threats. Local industry capabilities in each member nation are leveraged to reinforce the security of supply and foster economic growth.
Hugo Vanbockryck, Senior Vice President of Market Area Europe at Patria, emphasized the value of the collaboration:
“We are pleased to start a unique partnership that will provide significant added value for the United Kingdom. Europe needs collaboration and joint procurements, and the UK rapidly needs a cost-effective, fully developed, off-the-shelf vehicle platform. Patria 6x6 is already in production, fielded by NATO partner nations, and will be manufactured and supported locally in the UK to meet the high requirements and technical standards of the British Army.”
Tom Newman, Chief Executive of Babcock Land and UK Aviation, highlighted the synergy between the two organizations:
“The partnership between Patria and Babcock presents the UK armed forces with the highest-performing in-service armoured personnel carrier. Babcock’s skilled workforce, innovative facilities, and commitment to social value will ensure that this offering embodies the ethos of the UK Land Industrial Strategy. The collaboration combines the highest quality British and Finnish engineering expertise to ensure the British Army is ready for its next mission.”
About Patria 6x6
The Patria 6x6 vehicle is built to provide robust, modular, and affordable solutions for modern battlefield requirements. Designed primarily for troop transport, it offers versatility for a variety of combat support roles, including command, medical evacuation, and mortar carrier configurations.
Key Features:- Survivability: STANAG Level 2 ballistic and mine protection with optional upgrades to Level 4, ensuring comprehensive safety for personnel.
- Mobility: Continuous all-wheel drive and robust suspension for superior off-road performance. Amphibious capabilities are available for water crossings and landings.
- Capacity: Accommodates up to 10 soldiers in the rear cabin, plus a two-person crew, with equipment storage for 72-hour missions.
- Versatility: Modular design allows for easy adaptation to specific operational needs.
Patria’s extensive experience in developing and delivering advanced troop transportation solutions makes the 6x6 an ideal choice for the British Army. With a focus on technology transfer, local manufacturing, and through-life support, the Patria 6x6 ensures operational readiness and sustainability for future missions.