Latvia orders 42 ASCOD combat vehicles for €370 million

By: Mykhailo Stoliar | 30.01.2025, 19:21
ASCOD: A look at Europe's advanced armoured personnel carriers ASCOD INFANTRY FIGHTING VEHICLE. Source: General Dynamics European Land Systems

Latvia has signed a contract for the purchase of 42 ASCOD infantry fighting vehicles to strengthen its armed forces. The agreement was signed on 30 January by Latvia's National Director of Armaments, Major General Andis Dilans, and Vice President of General Dynamics European Land Systems Alejandro Page Hernandez.

Here's What We Know

Latvia's Defence Minister Andris Sprūds called the acquisition an important step in the mechanisation of the country's army and stressed the need to involve the domestic defence industry in supporting these combat vehicles.

Dr Thomas Kaufmann, Vice President of GDELS Global Sales, noted that the choice of ASCOD for the Latvian Armed Forces confirms its high efficiency. According to him, more than 1,100 vehicles of this family are currently in service worldwide.

The ASCOD is a modular combat vehicle with enhanced mine protection and the ability to install additional armour. It is equipped with NATO STANAG 4569 level 4 armour, an automatic cannon, anti-tank weapons, a machine gun and situational awareness systems. The vehicle can carry turrets of various calibres, from 25 mm to 120 mm, as well as anti-tank guns.

The procurement of combat vehicles is part of Latvia's long-term military modernisation strategy, which includes strengthening firepower, air and coastal defence, and long-range missile artillery.

Source: Defence Industry Europe